Rising Stars: Meet Clemence Amia of Bowie, MD

Today we’d like to introduce you to Clemence Amia.

Hi Clemence, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I initially began my journey with the hopes of going into medicine to become a physician. Once I graduated and it was time to begin applying to medical schools, I had time to reflect during my gap year. I soon realized if I became a doctor today I would always wonder what the trajectory of my life would be if I never pursued my passion as a stylist and creative director. However, if I set aside my medical dreams, I would not regret it because I would have followed what I believe now to be my true calling. I was always drawn to the idea of “saving lives”, later realizing that it was not only applicable in the medical field. Saving a life can also mean preserving lives through different creative mediums.

I have always been naturally drawn to nonverbal expressive forms of art, such as dance and fashion. Growing up with a speech impediment, often discouraged me from expressing or introducing myself with the fear of being embarrassed or rejected. I aligned with fashion specifically because I was able to create an identity with a style curated for me, by me. I began to build more confidence as my outfits would introduce me and start the conversation. Since making the transition from medicine to the creative field, I have kept an open mind while learning from my wins and losses. Today I am working as a stylist and creative director to local artists and clients. I am constantly working to become the best at my craft by surrounding myself with other talented creatives.

Alright, 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 definitely has not been a smooth road, as is nothing worth working towards. In the creative field, you are constantly in a state of being your biggest advocate and obstacle. Oftentimes it is easy to compare yourself to others that may be in their winning season while you are in your learning season. Fortunately, I have a great tribe of family and friends who continuously pour into me and support me through all circumstances. I have found one of my biggest struggles in the beginning was myself. I was constantly questioning my abilities and I asked myself if I am not prepared to invest in my dream, what makes you think that others will? This allowed me to learn that you have to take risks and expunge resources you may not have, to fund the life you would like to live. I started to build my portfolio, by working alongside other photographers, makeup artists and models collaborating on concepts and photoshoots to create content. It is often a joint effort with no monetary return for either parties but it is an opportunity to practice, network and create. I remind myself that the reward may not be immediate but simply delayed. Overall you are your biggest investment, and it’s a question of how much are you willing to invest in yourself for the big return.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My brand is StylemeYin and I am a stylist and creative director for all genres of clients. I have styled local artists as well as clients for special occasions such as birthday, business and maternity photoshoots. I believe being a creative director as well has allowed me more creative reign to manage set design, creative direction and styling to ensure the concept tells a story that is fluid and relatable. As a stylist, I help my clients create an identity for themselves through clothes by curating a wardrobe tailored to them. This means assisting my clients in purchasing essential items for their wardrobe leaving them with tools to succeed in fashion even after I no longer service them. In hindsight, this grants my clients creative control allowing them to continue to create the narrative of their own story through clothes. I often say the most important element of any outfit is the confidence that wears it.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I would definitely recommend a mentor for any field that someone is in. It is as simple as reaching out to people whose work you admire. This is not to say that finding someone to agree to mentor you is easy but you can only do your part and advocate for yourself. I currently do not have a mentor but I still reach out to other stylists, by asking questions and building relationships with them. You would be surprised at who responds to you, therefore do not sell yourself short and think someone is “too big” to reach out to. I am still open to having a mentor but until then I am my own teacher and learning from my mistakes. In regards to networking, it is not something that I love to do, but I know that it is essential in my field of work. I have found the most success by genuinely approaching people in order to get to know them for who they are rather than what they are known for. I am more interested in building long-lasting relationships with people rather than taking what I need and never hearing from the individual. I have found that every event is an opportunity to network and meet new people. So I encourage you, to put yourself out there, what’s the worst that could happen? They say no? Yes it is discouraging and I am learning every day to take rejection better but I have realized that a “no” today is not necessarily a “no” tomorrow. It has simply allotted me more time to learn, better my craft, and return with an updated portfolio.

Contact Info:

• Email: clemence.amiah@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yin.yara/?hl=en
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVV7M1z2h8raNIA4hzqdI8w