Today we’d like to introduce you to Renadda Wiggins.
Renadda, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
While running a Modeling Agency in Memphis, TN, a lady by the name of Jimmy stopped by the Agency. She brought her daughter Leah Thomas seeking Runway training. Leah was this very shy young adult. She was someone who didn’t say much at all. With these small disadvantages, Leah also had Down syndrome. I wasn’t sure how I could help, but from my memory my mind was telling Jimmy and her daughter I’m not the right person for this. Before I knew it, I told Jimmy, sure let’s do this. Later that day, all I could think about is why did I say yes. I’ve never worked with anyone with Down syndrome or anyone with a disability. I had one week to get things together for Leah. I prayed about it and I came up with a small curriculum just off of what I gather from her in her first visit. After six months of working multiple curriculums, Leah was doing an excellent job. She started dating and she joined a weight loss program. That 7th month I put Leah in the other classes with everyone else and what do you know, she fitted right in. A year passed and I moved to LA. I started recruiting from different Down syndrome organizations to start my program in Los Angeles. I’ve went on several news stations and listed the program on Groupon just to get the word out. Well finally, I have 3 locations and now I’m putting fashion shows together for them. My very first show, “Shine Bright Like A Diamond“ this show was amazing. We had over 500 people there and 43 models to walk in the show. These models are not just thrown in the show, but they are trained professionally by me. Shine Bright Like A Diamond Fashion Show cast anyone with Down syndrome, Autism, DHH, ADHD and anyone that would like to model. January 12, 2020 makes our 3rd Annual Fashion Show and I am truly excited about it. Since I specialize in Down syndrome, I wanted to do something just for them. Now I have a show that’s traveling state to state casting individuals with Down syndrome. The show is called “Rocking My Extra Chromosome” we have already done a show in Memphis and LA and we have so many other places visit. Now I’m looking for major companies to become donors and looking to expand internationally.
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?
This has been and still is a challenge for me, but it also has been very rewarding. The industry has led us to believe you must look a certain type of way in order to model. Because of this, Ive ran into a few close-minded people who can’t see past that and because of this, it’s taking me longer to knock down doors.
The Art of Runway – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The name of my organization is called The Art of Runway. I specialize in enhancing and building the confidence of individuals with Down syndrome. We do work with others with Autism, ADHD and DHH as well, but our main focus is Down syndrome. We use different Runway techniques, affirmations, workout routines, among many others amazing techniques I’ve put together to enhance a better quality of life. I am most proud of seeing my students graduate and move to the next level that they’ve pushed to get to. What sets me apart from others is the hands-on training, not seeing any disabilities and my expectation of them and holding them accountable to reach heights. I am also proud of myself for trusting God on this beautiful journey.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I have so many proud moments, but I’ll say taking my fashion show “Rocking My Extra Chromosome on the road. To be able to touch so many different families has not only been life-changing for me, but for many families. From the smiles to the tears from both families and the models is downright amazing.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 3233777203
- Email: renaddaw@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Art-of-Runway-1490694787890841/
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/the-art-of-runway-los-angeles
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