Conversations with Nakia Poole

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nakia Poole.

Nakia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my journey as little as four years ago. From the moment I shaved my head and chose myself, I knew this was the industry I was supposed to be in. I wanted to successful the right way, and I was prepared to walk through the trials it took. In, 2019, I came in questioning and rebelling against so many things that were considered the norm such as height and body requirements. I wanted to tackle the lack of community with the community itself. Later that same year, I received my first publishing in City Gear, which opened this window of confidence that I could be that model you see when you walk in your favorite store. In 2020, I became a Creative Director. I wanted to express my talents and show the world my consistency in my creativity. I knew that if I could do it for me, I could do it anyone else. In 2021, I was officially Internationally published in multiple countries in bridal magazines such as Muna Luchi and Iconic Bride. Later that year, I made the courageous decision to begin teaching and model coaching new and experienced models on how to be successful without going against you own personal morality. Today, I can say that I’ve had about 100 students so far and looking to multiply that number as time goes on. As of June 2, 2022, I can add B.O.Soul awards 2022 Model of the Year and Published Author to my list of accolades with the release of my ebook titled ” Hey Supermodel!: A Beginner’s Guide to Your Model Life”. which can be found on Amazon. I’m being entirely honest, I am not so sure about what God has for me, but I’ll be ready to receive everything He said was mine.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I came into this industry as a creative that wanted to express themselves through their art. Once I started to do what made me happy, I realized that decision came with naysayers and people who wanted me to conform to social norms that didn’t appeal to what I personally stood for. I dealt with colorism, sexism, shady photographer, height requirements, people wanting my services trying to convince me that the opportunity outweighed what I could be paid. My career took a turn when I decided to voice my concerns about our community. When I started to come out about my experiences with sexual assault from some photographers, others stopped reaching out to work with me. It was difficult to express my emotions after feeling so unheard. However, I knew it needed to be done and I was willing to put my successes and career on the line to help the generation after me avoid those situations. I’ve dealt with people who tried to make me feel like my dreams were too big. As a Memphis native, the options for success were considered to be limited despite the endless amount of talent and influence in the city. I wanted to change that and bring a new pair of eyes to this industry. It used to make me angry and discourage me, but I now understand how people were scared of something so new to them because I was too scared when I received opportunities that I knew I wanted but never believed I could possess.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Model, Creative Director, Model Coach, and Published Author. I specialize in making that are timeless and could replace Mona Lisa in the Louvre. I am known for my creativity and new perspective, as well as being incredibly vocal on conversations that people don’t talk about our industry. I think what’s set me apart from others is my ability to appeal to others. When you leave from working with me, consulting with me or just having a conversation with me, you leave beyond satisfied and happy, or just very clear on your next steps. My proudest moment was the start of my business named Esther Experience. It was named after the story of Esther in the Bible. I could relate to her not knowing what her purpose was and how she struggled to accept it, all while operating as a vessel for the greater good. Seeing how my students and my clients feel after working with me and seeing themselves in a new light makes everything I went through to get this point all worth it.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve had people that wanted to mentor me, but none of them compared to Rosemary Salem. She changed my perspective on business relationships and mentorships. I learned how important it is to have someone who cares about your well-being more than your business.

Pricing:

• Hey Supermodel! $9.99 on Amazon

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thenakiajanet.com/
• Instagram: _janet_chrystal
• Twitter: _janet_chrystal

Image Credits:
Ezra Ferguson (Photographer) Sedrick Askew (Photographer) Christopher Hill (photographer) Kennedy Hall (Model, long blond hair shot by Sedrick) Savanna Owens (Model, red dress shot by Sedrick) Mallory Lanier (Model picture frame shot by Ezra) Kedron Pryor(Model Male shot by Christopher Hill)