We recently connected with Shundialaine and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shundialaine, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
I can say my work ethic was instilled in me as a child from my parents. Growing up, they always emphasized the importance of dedication, persistence, and doing your best no matter what! While working full time jobs, they managed to strategically start a church which impacted countless lives in the community. I watched them serve tirelessly with so much dedication and compassion. I consistently noticed how they balanced their personal lives and spiritual commitment with such excellence and efficiency. This inspired me to do the same in all aspects of my life.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My cosplay name is Shundialaine and I am a new up- and- coming cosplayer. For me, cosplaying is a way to escape some of the realities of life. I have always loved dressing up since I was toddler. I am fascinated by becoming these whimsical characters in exciting worlds that are far different than my own world. During a rough time in my life, I regained intertest into anime. Through anime, I became aware of the world of cosplay. I was very much inspired seeing how people were bringing to life these characters. But what truly makes it special, is the joy of meeting new people while sharing my work, rather online or in person. Cosplay allows me to express myself while becoming a part of a larger, passionate community that celebrates everyone creativity.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The three most important skills that have helped me along my journey in the world of cosplay is imagination, confidence and resilience. When I started cosplaying, I had to learn how to bring my favorite characters to life. Once I started, I allowed my imagination to bring different styles to some of my favorite characters. As time progressed, I realized that cosplay is not only about the costume but also about how you embody the character through confidence. I always make sure that I am exuberant while showcasing my work rather it be at conventions, events or through photos/videos. By embracing my character, I realized that this enhances my cosplay by making it more impactful and fun. Now we know in life, that there are bumps in the road that we will encounter along the way. There are going to be mishaps such as costume malfunctions, unexpected life events and possibly not receiving positive feedback There have been many times that I wanted to give up. However, because of my resilience and strong determination, I resolved giving up was not an option. I was determined to grow and to become better in my craft. My advice for anyone that wants to start their journey as a cosplayer, just jump right on in. No one is perfect! Just take it one day at a time because we are all learning along the way.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
The person who has been most helpful through my journey as a cosplayer would have to be my friend Chocolate Cheri’e Delight. We attended high school together and have recently reconnected. She has been the olive branch who has given me a firsthand look into cosplaying. Chocolate Cheri’e Delight has been one of my biggest cheerleaders and mentors throughout my learning process as a cosplayer. She has encouraged me to put myself out there in the cosplay community. Little did she know that during our first cosplay shoot together, I had been dealing with a lot. Her encouragement was one of the catalysts that helped me grow and heal as a person. My first cosplay photoshoot was very inspiring and uplifting. Chocolate Cheri’e Delight later introduced me to other great cosplayers and photographers that welcomed and motivated me to cultivate my talent and become a better cosplayer. So, shoutout to Chocolate Cheri’e Delight!!! I have no doubt that God placed her back in my life for a reason and I am so thankful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shundialaine_cosplayme/profilecard/?igsh=dmxvZjhwd2g0YWE3
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@shundialaine?_t=8qlRLb8dyaQ&_r=1
Image Credits
Ashanti “ Shun” Blair Mia De’Nay Keycann
