Local StoriesJuly 29, 2026

Life & Work with Makayla Atkins of Atlanta

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Makayla Atkins.

Hi Makayla, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey has been full of unexpected turns, but each one has brought me closer to who I am today.
I grew up in Mississippi and, after graduating high school, joined the military. During that time, I thought my future was in medicine, so I applied to Spelman College as a biology major. Although life took me in a different direction, that decision brought me to Atlanta and eventually to Clark Atlanta University.
While I was in college, I discovered that my passion had always been in the creative industry. What started as an interest in fashion grew into opportunities in modeling, which eventually led me to acting. As I continued exploring different creative spaces, I also found my voice as a fashion stylist and creative director.
Today, I wear several hats as a model, actress, fashion stylist, and creative director. Each role allows me to tell stories in a different way and continue growing as both an artist and a professional. Looking back, every decision I made, even the ones that seemed uncertain at the time, played a part in shaping the path I’m on today. I truly believe that sometimes the journey you’re meant to take is different from the one you originally planned, and I’m grateful that I had the courage to follow where my passions led me.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the biggest obstacles I faced was stepping outside of the environment I was familiar with and learning how to navigate a new world on my own. Coming from Mississippi to Atlanta was a major adjustment. I was exposed to a faster pace, a different culture, and a city full of opportunities, but I also had to learn how to find my place within it.
Another challenge was balancing multiple responsibilities at the same time. I was managing school, work, military obligations, and my personal responsibilities while still trying to pursue my creative goals. There were moments when I had to remind myself why I started and stay committed to the vision I had for my future.
I overcame those challenges by staying disciplined, being open to growth, and learning how to adapt. I had to become comfortable with being uncomfortable and trust that every experience was helping me grow into the person and creative professional I am today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I consider myself a multifaceted creative. I am a fashion stylist, model, actress, and creative director who specializes in storytelling through visual expression. My work is centered around bringing ideas to life and creating moments that allow people to see themselves in a different way.
As a stylist, I focus on creating looks that reflect individuality, confidence, and identity. As a model and actress, I use my presence and creativity to connect with audiences and tell stories beyond just the image. As a creative director, I enjoy bringing all those elements together to create a complete vision from concept to execution.
What I am most proud of is my ability to step into different creative spaces and continue evolving. I did not take the traditional route into this industry, but I allowed each experience in my life to shape me into the artist I am today. My journey has taught me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of believing in my own vision.
What sets me apart is that I bring more than just creativity to my work. I bring my experiences, my perspective, and my story. I understand the power of transformation, not only through fashion and entertainment, but through confidence and self-expression. I want my work to inspire people to embrace who they are and feel empowered to tell their own stories.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Atlanta is the culture and the energy of the city. Atlanta is a place where creativity, ambition, and community come together. The city has such a rich history, especially within Black culture, and it has become a hub for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, entertainers, and professionals. There is something inspiring about being surrounded by so many people who are building businesses, chasing their dreams, and creating opportunities for themselves and others.

I also love the networking opportunities Atlanta provides. It is a city where one conversation, one event, or one introduction can lead to a new opportunity. As someone in the creative industry, being in a place with so many different industries, talents, and perspectives has allowed me to grow and expand my vision.

One thing I appreciate about Atlanta is that the possibilities truly feel endless. Whether you are interested in fashion, film, music, business, or entertainment, there is always something happening and always someone creating something new.

Of course, like any major city, Atlanta has its challenges. One of the biggest things people mention is the traffic. It can make getting around the city difficult and requires a lot of patience and planning.

Overall, I think Atlanta is a city that challenges you to grow. It pushes you to step outside of your comfort zone, connect with others, and take advantage of the opportunities around you.

Contact Info:

Person wearing a black jacket and floral skirt standing in a hallway with closed doors, facing away from the camera.

Young woman with short dark hair wearing a white T-shirt, looking at the camera, in a room with neutral background.

Three women sitting indoors, one in foreground with glasses and curly hair, others in background, all looking to the side.

Two people in a dimly lit setting, one wearing glasses and a dark outfit, the other in a strapless top, with a neon sign in the background.

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