We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Natoshia (Blu) Haley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Natoshia (Blu), 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?
The great thing about each of us is there is only one of us. As I have grown in who and what I am, I have found that being who you are is the most effective way to stand out. People are intrigued about what is different. It may allow them to see something withing themselves that encourages them. Assures them and sparks an interest. I find a way to be relatible and radiate positive energy that draws people in naturally.
Confidence is also key.
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?
My platform gives a unique experience that is catered to the empowerment of woman in many forms! From modeling and giving representation for fat bodies accross the board to mentoring women interested in influencing in a plus size space. I make it a point to be a woman who supports women where they are now and help them to embody their worth. My main job is to partner with photographers to upgrade the experiences they give their clients. As someine who is proficent in styling, posing, and on-set ettiquette, I allow the photographer to focus on the art and the concept while I work to help pose, see angles, and helps choose what looks fit best. Along with basic assistanting comes my signature hype-woman style! I affirm my clients, I meet with them and build a professional relationship and allow them to see me as an everyday woman just like them. I remind them of who they are and through a detailed questionarre I learn how to cater to then as an individual and not just another on – set body. Women empowerment is about more than being a trend its about actually empowering women in a way that changes how they view themselves and creating a suppprt system for days they do not and that is the foundation of Model Mindset.
My goal is to change the stigmas for women of size a d women all over the world through being who I am, where I , how I am.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Having the support and networking of women around me, God,
And never giving up.
This industry is tough for everyone. If you have a passion or a calling however follow it becauae you love it. Not all days are good, at times you will want to cave and give up.
However stand confidwntly in who you are, pray wiyhout ceasing, and follow your heart. What is for you will find you.
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 collab with plus fashion designers to represent plus fashion as modeling is my passion but im open to partnering with photographers and creatives that my services fall under. Im also open to speaking at women positive events as well as I have an uplifting story.
All og my socials you can find here:
https://linkr.bio/modelmindset
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linkr.bio/modelmindset
- Instagram: Blubyrd1120
- Facebook: Natoshia Haley
Image Credits
All images of behind the scences are taken by Allie Cline of Wild Intimaes x Allie. Last solo shot of myself (in pink) taken by Christina Garrett of 33 West Studios
