Meet Alexis Renaè

We recently connected with Alexis Renaè and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexis, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I found my purpose as a model, coach, and mentor through my own journey of learning and growth. When I first entered the industry, I had no idea where to start, but I was fortunate to have a small handful of mentors who guided me out of the kindness of their hearts. Their advice and support helped me develop my career, and I’ve always remembered something one of them told me: If you ever have the chance, give back. That mindset has stuck with me, and when people ask how they can repay me or thank me for what I’ve done, I always tell them the same thing—help someone else. Don’t be rude, don’t be jealous, and don’t be envious. Instead, lift others up the way you once wished to be helped.

One of the biggest turning points for me came in February 2023 during a conversation with a friend. I’ve never really doubted my skills or experience, but I think I was too humble to recognize how much I could offer others. My friend pointed out that I had so much industry knowledge that most people didn’t even realize—beyond modeling, I had experience in acting, working as a PA on set, being an assistant director, and even writing screenplays in collaboration with others. He told me that while I was still growing as a model, there were so many people out there who were just starting, just like I once was. Many of them had no guidance and often ended up in the wrong hands. He saw my kindness and my genuine desire to see others succeed, and he told me that’s what made me a mentor. That conversation made me realize that I had the power to help others develop, grow, and find real opportunities in this industry.

That’s when Role Models 808 was born. The name holds deep meaning for me—808 represents my roots and passion for Hawaii, and Role Models reflects my belief that anyone can be a model and an inspiration to others. In this industry, it’s not just about knowing how to pose or take good pictures; it’s about presence, professionalism, and how you carry yourself. I started as a size 4, fluctuated to a size 12, and now I’m somewhere in between, but through all of it, I’ve learned that true confidence comes from understanding yourself, your craft, and how you present yourself to the world.

Now, my purpose is to give back, especially to aspiring models in Hawaii, where I started my journey. I’ve noticed that so many models out there don’t have the right guidance, and I want to be the person who helps them find real, trustworthy mentors—whether that’s me or someone else who truly has their best interests at heart. My goal is to make sure they’re in the hands of people who will support and uplift them, not take advantage of them.

This industry gave me the opportunity to grow, and now I’m dedicated to making sure others have that same chance. That’s why I do what I do.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

As a model coach, I guide aspiring models through every aspect of the industry, helping them build confidence, professionalism, and the skills they need to succeed. My coaching goes beyond just teaching how to pose. I focus on the full development of a model, from mindset to career strategy.

What I Do as a Model Coach:

• Model Development & Training

• Professionalism & Industry Education

• Confidence & Mindset Coaching

• Help models develop self-confidence, body positivity, and resilience in a competitive industry

• Career Guidance & Booking Opportunities (I am not a modeling agency, but I do book models exclusively for certain gigs through my own network and partnered agencies.)

• New York Fashion Week
• Miami Swim Week
• LA Fashion Week
• Hawaii Fashion Show
Some of my models have also been cast in movies and music videos. Just recently, one of my Tennessee-based models was featured in Kenny Chesney’s music video Born. And I’m proud to say that several of my models will be showcasing their talents for the first time off the islands of Hawai’i at Miami Swim Week 2025.

My East Coast models went to model for Oscars events, where they’ve had the chance to network with key industry leaders.

My ultimate goal as a model coach is not just to help models break into the industry but to ensure they thrive in it and creating a safer & supporting community.

Besides Miami Swim Week 2025, I’m looking forward to our Hawaii Model Retreat in April 2025, Role Models 808 is giving models the chance to network, shoot in stunning locations, and build their portfolios while learning from top industry professionals.

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?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities and skills that were most impactful in my success were resilience, networking, and industry knowledge.

1. Resilience

The modeling industry is full of challenges, rejections, setbacks, and constant change. I had to learn how to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles. When I moved from Hawaii, I felt isolated and disconnected from! I had left my comfort zone. But instead of giving up, I found new connections and other like-minded individuals. The key is adapting to new opportunities!

Accepting that rejection is part of the industry, not a reflection of your worth. No matter the way it’s projected, nicely or rude just look at it as we all have our own likes and toes and visions… we won’t be everyone’s top choice but there’s a lot that we will be the headliner for! Trust me! What’s meant for you is for you!

2. Networking & Building Relationships

The right connections can open doors that talent alone might not. Early in my career, I was fortunate to have a small group of mentors who guided me. Later, I started making my own connections by attending events, reaching out to industry professionals, and genuinely supporting others. This helped me get booked, find opportunities, and eventually start Role Models 808.

Be intentional about relationships; focus on genuine connections rather than just trying to get ahead. Because then you’ll always find yourself putting up a front, it will burn you out quickly trying to impress or be someone you’re not just to fit in.

3. Industry Knowledge & Versatility

Having a diverse knowledge helped me approach my career differently and gave me a competitive edge. It also allowed me to transition into coaching, where I now guide models on their journeys.

Models need to be open to exploring different areas (runway, commercial, print, TV, content creation) to make yourself more versatile. Never stop learning! Stay updated on trends, seek mentorship, and refine your craft continuously. It’s k ok to have more then coach or mentor and it’s ok to connect to just one that related to your goals.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is someone who is passionate, open minded, and willing to put in the work. Modeling isn’t just about looking good, it’s about having the right mindset, professionalism, and a willingness to learn. Someone who trusts and understands this isn’t an overnight success industry.

I work best with aspiring models who want to break into the industry but don’t know where to start and emerging models who have some experience but need guidance on how to level up.

Contact Info:

• Website: RoleModels808@hmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/RoleModels808 & www.instagram.com/im.alexis.renae