Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanisha Frazier.

Hi Tanisha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

My journey into modeling wasn’t something I initially saw for myself. Growing up, I didn’t see many plus-size, African American women being celebrated in the fashion industry, so I didn’t think modeling was an option for me. But deep down, I always had a love for fashion, creativity, and self-expression. One day, I decided to step in front of the camera, just to see what would happen and that one decision changed everything.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Not at all! The road has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has shaped me into the model and entrepreneur I am today. In an industry that still has work to do when it comes to inclusivity, being a plus-size, African American model has meant constantly proving that I belong. There have been moments of rejection not because of my talent, but because I didn’t fit the narrow mold of what some brands were looking for. I had to learn how to advocate for myself, build my own network, and create my own opportunities. Social media became a game-changer for me, helping me connect with photographers, brands, and other creatives who saw my value.

Beyond the industry challenges, I’ve also had to navigate self-doubt and imposter syndrome. It’s easy to compare yourself to others and wonder if you’re doing enough, booking enough, or making enough of an impact. But I’ve learned that my journey is mine alone every setback has been a setup for something greater. Through it all, I’ve stayed committed to my purpose. The struggles have made the wins even more meaningful, and they’ve fueled my desire to help others overcome the same barriers I faced.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

I am a plus-size model, backstage coordinator, and creative entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the fashion and modeling industry. I specialize in print, runway, and commercial modeling, bringing confidence, versatility, and presence to every project I take on. Beyond modeling, I’m also building a business that offers photoshoot assistance, workshops, and industry guidance to help others navigate the fashion world with confidence.

In addition to being in front of the camera, I also work behind the scenes as a backstage coordinator, ensuring that Pageants run smoothly. From managing contestants to working with designers and production teams, I thrive in high-energy environments where precision and organization are key. This role has given me a unique perspective on the industry, allowing me to understand both the creative and logistical sides of fashion.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve had—not just in my own career but in inspiring and uplifting others. Whether it’s walking in major runway shows, landing dream collaborations, or helping a new model step into their confidence, I see every opportunity as a chance to leave my mark.

What sets me apart is my resilience, my ability to adapt, and my dedication to creating opportunities rather than waiting for them. I don’t just model I educate, I uplift, and I create space for others to shine. My work is about more than just taking great photos or walking a runway it’s about shifting the narrative of what beauty, confidence, and success look like in this industry.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?

What I love most about my city is its energy and diversity. East Orange has a rich mix of cultures, styles, and industries, which makes it an inspiring place to be as a creative. Being so close to NYC also means endless opportunities for networking, fashion shows, and collaborations.

What I like least? The traffic and parking!!! Getting around can be a challenge, especially when trying to make it to castings or events on time. Also, while there are plenty of creative opportunities, I’d love to see even more plus-size representation and fashion-forward events happening locally instead of always having to go into NYC for them.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plusmodelnish
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tanisha.frazier.52
• Other: https://www.facebook.com/plusmodelnisha

Image Credits

Philip Drew
Cyrie Melody
Lola Pierre
Zachariah R.
Zakiyah Caldwell