We were lucky to catch up with Waya recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Waya , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience is a testament to the strength found in embracing my identity as a black trans man. In the challenging landscape of the modeling and acting industry, my determination grows from the adversity I’ve faced. It’s fueled by authenticity, self-affirmation, and the hope of inspiring positive change for future generations..
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Since my YouTube beginnings in 2006, evolving through Instagram and a transformative journey from Female to Male in 2015, my story unfolds. Instagram success came fast but took a toll on my mental health. After a hiatus, TikTok became my canvas, creating relatable skits that resonated globally. In 2022, I ventured into modeling via Stud+ Model Project, signing with J L Management in 2023. Now, I’m charting a course towards major brand campaigns and an acting career. Amidst this, I relaunched I AM ME Apparel, a brand championing the LGBTQ community. The journey continues, and I’m just scratching the surface of what’s to come.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
First off, Authenticity: Embrace your authentic self, as it is your greatest asset. The industry thrives on unique voices, so don’t be afraid to showcase your true identity.
Second of all, Resilience: Challenges will arise, but resilience is your superpower. Develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from them, and use them to fuel your growth.
Last but not least, Community Connection : Build a supportive community around you. Connect with fellow creators and professionals who understand your journey. Networking can open doors and provide valuable insights.
My Advice to folks coming into the industry : Surround yourself with positivity, seek mentors who have navigated similar paths, and never underestimate the power of your story. Stay true to your passion, and let it shine through in everything you do.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely, I’m actively seeking creative collaborations! I’m particularly interested in partnering with talented BIPOC and LGBTQ creatives who are passionate about their craft. If you’re ready to turn ideas into impactful content and share a commitment to excellence, let’s connect. Reach out to me on Instagram: @itsjustwaya or via email: [email protected]. Looking forward to making masterpieces together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pensight.com/x/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Itsjustwaya - Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ItsJustWaya
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
Visions of Qassim ADJ Media Stud+ Model Project Alarm Blu I AM ME PROD
