Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hawkins.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Georgia my entire life. I was brought up in church and active in the ministry. Therefore, my faith has played a major role in my life. I am where I am today because of the ambitious spirit, direction, and purpose God has given me.
After high school, I went to college and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice. After college, I started working in corporate. While working, I earned my master’s Degree in Business Management and Human Resources. I love my profession and I am good at what I do, but I always knew that there is more to life. I have learned to not let any opportunity pass me by regardless of how big or small.
I have always enjoyed taking pictures; being in front of and behind the camera. The more I did it, I realized I was good at it, so I kept at it. I have always enjoyed writing and used writing as a form to express myself, so I started a blog too. The people in my life; family, friends, and coworkers are also why I am where I am today. They would always compliment me on something I was wearing and how I carry myself. You just never know who is watching and whose life you may be changing. Sometimes what people see in you, you don’t see in yourself. Many people would be impressed and started offering to pay me to take their pictures and shop for them too. I felt like that was enough confirmation and all the motivation I needed to start. All I have to do is just be myself to generate extra income and make a positive impact while doing so; that’s easy! Everything honestly just came to me and fell in my lap. I was able to turn my passion into my purpose by just being myself.
Great, 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?
It has certainly not been a smooth process. I know that nothing in life comes easy and you must work hard and plant the seed to see a result. All of the struggles are a part of the process and makes you appreciate everything you have more. If every day were the same easy things, there would be no room for growth and lead to complacency.
Finding your purpose and trying to figure out what you are good at doing can be a struggle in itself. Some of the struggles I have had along the way are financial struggles; not having all the funds to live and do everything I wanted to do. But I learned to use my resources and make the most of it. I also learned to have more faith, just go for it, start small first, and not worry.
Another struggle that I am sure most millennials and entrepreneurs can also agree with is time management and balance. Between trying to make a living, focus, and take care of myself by eating right and working out, balancing personal and work life; there seems to never be enough time in the day.
It may all seem like a struggle but when you learn from it, it’s not. It’s a lesson and it’s just a part of the plan.
Ashleigh Jenae – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
My brand is all about inspiring, motivating, and encouraging everyone I encounter. I am known for blogging, photography, styling, modeling, and influencing. A major factor of what I do is advocate healthy, plus-size body positivity. I am most proud of the growth and the amazing support I receive from my supporters. I am also proud of being transparent and the confidence that I have gained over the years. What sets me apart from others is they are simply not me, and I am not them. There are so many people in the world who all do the same things, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from going after what they want. What makes me different is no-one simply can’t do anything like me, and I cannot do anything like them. It’s basically an art.
What moment in your career do you look fondly on?
The proudest moment of my career has been being able to balance and do so many things at once. I am also proud of being able to have fun while making a living just by being myself. Being able to turn my passion into my purpose has been the biggest blessing. I am also most proud of being able to inspire other people, conquer every trial I have been through; all while transitioning into entrepreneurship.
Pricing:
- 1 Hour Photoshoot – $30
- Styling – Negotiable upon Consultation
- AJ Curves Collection – $10-$35
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ashleighjenae.com
- Email: info@ashleighjenae.com
- Instagram: ashleighjenae
- Twitter: @AshleighJenaeH
Image Credit:
Image Logo: @kaidesesignss_
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