We recently had the chance to connect with Jerone Darden and have shared our conversation below.
Jerone, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
If I had to say that im being called to do something right now, I’d have to say that it’s to find my voice in the performing arts. Recently I was honored with an award and it has lit a fire in my soul. I have many creative interests and I feel as if now is my time to pour my heart into my dream to achieve greatness.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jerone Arnold Darden, and I’m a fashion model and creative artist based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. I first stepped into modeling as a way to challenge myself and rediscover who I was after taking time away from performing—and it ended up becoming one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Through modeling, I found confidence, discipline, and a stronger sense of purpose.
What makes my story unique is that I didn’t just “enter” the fashion industry—I found myself in it. Every runway, photoshoot, and collaboration has helped me grow, not only as a model but as a person. I’ve learned that fashion isn’t just about clothing or aesthetics—it’s about storytelling, emotion, and representation.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my overall performance portfolio—diving deeper into acting, modeling, and photography, and exploring how each art form connects and enhances the others. Whether I’m in front of the camera or behind it, I’m drawn to the storytelling aspect of the work—the emotion, the energy, the transformation. My goal is to continue evolving as a multidimensional artist while building a body of work that reflects growth, versatility, and authenticity.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that truly shaped how I see the world was the September 11th attacks. I was young, but I’ll never forget how the country seemed to come together in grief and unity. For a while, it felt like everyone wanted to help one another—neighbors checking in on each other, communities holding vigils, and people showing genuine compassion in the face of tragedy.
But as time passed, I also saw the other side of that moment—the fear and prejudice that began to grow toward Muslim and Middle Eastern communities. It opened my eyes to how quickly pain can turn into misunderstanding, and how important it is to stand against that.
That experience taught me that being an artist means more than just performing or creating—it’s about using your voice and presence to promote empathy, inclusion, and awareness. I carry that lesson with me in everything I do, hoping to remind people that strength and compassion must always go hand in hand.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
Something I miss that most people don’t know about is my father, who passed away in September 2006, during my sophomore year of high school. Toward the end of his life, he began struggling with dementia, and at the time, I didn’t fully understand what was happening. I was young, confused, and angry—angry that the man I looked up to was changing in ways I couldn’t explain. In my frustration, I reacted in ways I’m not proud of, and it’s something that has stayed with me ever since.
For a long time, that guilt was hard to carry. But as I got older, I began to understand that what I saw wasn’t weakness—it was illness. That realization has shaped how I treat others, and how I approach life itself—with more compassion, patience, and grace.
Even now, I think about him often, especially when I’m working or performing. I like to believe he sees the man I’ve become, and that in my growth and empathy, I’ve found a way to honor him. His memory reminds me every day that love and understanding are far more powerful than anger or fear.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to the belief that creativity, dedication, and persistence can shape a lasting legacy. My ultimate dream is to become a PEGOT recipient—winning a Pulitzer Prize, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. It’s ambitious, but every role, photoshoot, or performance I take on is a step toward that goal. What fuels me isn’t just the awards—it’s the chance to tell stories that inspire, move, and connect people, and to leave a mark through art that truly matters.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
Looking back, one thing I know I’ll regret not doing is continuing to perform without taking a long break. There was a period in my life when I stepped away from the arts, and at the time it felt necessary, but I now realize how much I missed expressing myself and connecting with audiences. That time away made me appreciate the power of performance in a whole new way—it reminded me that creating, whether on stage, in front of a camera, or through music, is central to who I am.
If I could go back, I would tell myself to keep showing up for my craft, even when it’s hard or uncertain, because those moments of expression are irreplaceable. That lesson now drives everything I do, pushing me to embrace opportunities, take risks, and stay fully present in my creative journey.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firekeeper_jeada?igsh=NjZkeGZidTYwaGQw
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeroneadarden?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1A8cc6vs6D/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
