Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiarra Norman.
Kiarra, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, I used to be pretty shy, but always made friends easily. I was insecure about the craziest things such as my long legs, having naturally super curly hair, and big lips. That all faded for me around my freshman year of college. I came into college thinking I knew what I wanted to be and that it would be easy to get there if I just followed the steps. Little did I know, I was soon to figure out who I really was and begin forming who I really wanted to be. I never really became serious about posting on Instagram until I joined Phi Mu and got tons of support and encouragement from sisters at the time. I realized that my BEST features were my big lips, hair, and long legs! As my mom would say: “people are paying for what you naturally have!” Growing up with a single mom and my sister, they also have easily become my biggest supporters and I am so thankful for their encouragement. It also began when people would repeatedly ask me where I got several items of my clothing, where I was visiting, who does my hair, etc. that I realized people actually pay attention to what I am posting and gain more followers with each day.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road at all. I switched my major at least 3x and I am currently in my 5th year of college. At first, it was extremely disheartening to know I would not be graduating in four years or 4 1/2 years like all my other friends. I thought I had let everyone down, including myself and that I was disorganized and not smart. I wondered why I couldn’t be like the people who go into school knowing what they want to do, loving it, and sticking with it until they graduate on time. I learned that there is no “on time.” Everyone figures out who they are and what they like with life experiences and in their own time frame. Once you accept that, you will be so much happier within yourself and all the pieces will begin to fall into place. My biggest piece of advice is to be outgoing, make connections stop caring about how others see you and live to make YOURSELF proud.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am currently a student at Kennesaw State University, majoring in Public Relations with a minor in Spanish. I am on the road to becoming a Social Media/Fashion Influencer. I have always loved social media, traveling, and fashion. I work apparel marts in Las Vegas and Atlanta, which is a major part of how I’ve made many of my connections. I speak with thousands of people and major brands each day for that week of mart to help connect buyers with apparel that matches their customers’ tastes and styles. Also, I am currently an ambassador for several brands such as 12th Tribe, Raw & Rebellious, and working currently with Amazing Lace. In the past, I have also worked with Intern Queen and College Fashionista. I average about 1800 profile visits a week. What sets me apart from others is that I am outgoing, have a unique look which draws people’s curiosity (if you only knew the number of times I have been asked “what are you??”… my answer: “A human.”), and most importantly, I am open-minded. It is so tough to find truly open-minded people these days, but I promise, it will change your entire look on life and people, if you’re willing to truly learn and care about other people, cultures, etc.
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
I think the biggest barrier today is the unwillingness to truly support one another. It is all a competition when it should not be. Uplifting one another and supporting female leadership without being pushed around or feeling threatened by someone else’s success is so important.
Contact Info:
- Email: kiarrasn@gmail.com
- Instagram: @kiarranorman
Image Credit:
Celina Taylor Photography
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