We recently connected with Kayla Strait and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kayla, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
I’ve learned that having confidence in yourself and knowing your worth play a huge part in the way you stand out. I walk into every room with my head held high. I would say most, if not all, of my opportunities have come from being confident and putting myself out there. Wherever I’m at, I will always show my true self. Never compare yourself to others! As a model, every chance I don’t take is an opportunity missed. Even if I am told no, I use it as motivation to do and be better. Giving up is never an option.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am an internationally published fashion model. I started modeling in 2021. I love meeting so many amazing models, designers, artists, photographers, and so many other great people. I have had the opportunity to work with many influential people and have learned so much about myself and my craft. I have over 10 publications in multiple countries with a cover feature in Paris. I’ve walked in NYFW for MerFash as well as Miami Swim Week for BeautyByPharmD Cosmetics & Runway Mama Swim. I’ve walked for many local designers including GinaTFashion, Kenya Powell, CocoClassics, Clutch, and many others. I’m extremely grateful for every opportunity I’ve been given as well as every person who has supported me throughout my career so far. Very excited to see what the future holds for me. Come see me at Rip the Riverfront Music Festival with Saucy Santana, Ashanti, & more!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
As a model, it is important that you have confidence, be resilient, and work hard. In this industry, the word no exists often. It is best that models take these instances and learn from them. Ask questions of what you could work on and apply it. Have confidence in yourself. Walk into every room with your head held high & be yourself! Never let a no cause you to give up. It should only make you go harder. Believe in yourself. Practice! Don’t compare yourself to others and always find ways to perfect your craft.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with photographers & designers. As a model, I’m always looking for partner to collab with for fashion shows, photoshoots, print, magazine publication, etc. If you’re interested in working together, please feel free to reach out!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kayxmodel
- Instagram: @kay.xo.model
- Youtube: LifeOfKay
Image Credits
@beyondmemoriesbyb_
