Pride to the Side and Evolving Dreams by Isis King

Several years ago I had the opportunity and pleasure of meeting fellow alum from America’s Next Top Model, and now good friend, Isis King. 

Isis King. Photo provided by Isis King.

Having both had the experience of being on ANTM and being fan favorites, we shared a lot of similar experiences. I know the difficulties of finding your way through such a competitive world as the fashion industry and building a career. Some way or another, Isis and I both fell into the career path of becoming motivational speakers while pursuing our passions for fashion, art and life at the same time.

I believe Isis has a heart of gold, works super hard, and has an important message to give young people dealing with the same struggles in life. I see a lot of myself in her and am proud to call her my friend! I am honored by her agreeing to share her wisdom with you!

-Naima 

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Pride to the Side and Evolving Dreams

By Isis King

When I decided to break into the fashion industry, I didn’t know what the outcome was going to be. America’s Next Top Model was a show I watched as a teen and young adult, but never thought I would have a chance to win, let alone become one of the most memorable contestants ever.

My dream was to always become a “World Renown Fashion Designer,” but with my tiny frame, fierce walk, and “knowing my light,” I became what felt like a model over night.

After the show I found it very difficult to find modeling work. I did test shoots and appearances as a Top Model, but never really had the urge to go on go-sees. I realized just because I was on a reality modeling show that it didn’t mean my door wwould be knocked down with gigs and opportunities.

I realized that I didn’t have guidence, nor did I have anyone’s career to look to as a blueprint for what to do and how to take my career to the next level.

Isis King: photo provided by Isis King.

I started to travel the country and to speak at colleges as my main source of income, trying to go back to a “Normal Life,” which was more complicated then I thought. I always looked up to other models and reality stars who I thought had similar lifestyles with my own: the daily hustle of trying to find work in maybe one of the most competitive industries ever.

I soon learned that many of those ladies had sugar daddies, wealthy families or boyfriends who took care of them. They had a support system and hence the ability to take their time and coast.

I’m a strong willed young woman from a low income household and have always done it on my own. I learned early on that there is so much pride in that; it’s tough, but rewarding. Recently I embarked on the next chapter of my life – Makeup! I am a new Artist for M.A.C. Cosmetics and I LOVE IT.

As an Artist I have a background in Illustration and fashion design, a facet of the many things about me I have to leverage. I get to be creative, free, fashionable, and most of all – me.

I got over the pride aspect of working a regular job as a popular reality star and realized that everyone has to work. Not everyone is privileged, or wants someone else to take care of them. I want to continue to be an inspiration to others and will continue to design, model, act, and do motivational speaking. Now I can add M.A.C. Artist to the list.

I have found  a way to be creative, and to keep financial stability in my life…..

Now that’s real Model Behavior.

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For more about Isis King at her website at www.kingisis.com

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