We recently connected with Karina Febles and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Karina, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Ah, yes. I still deal with that very much to this day. Once you start slowing making waves with your creative work, you almost have an “Oh it’s happening” kind of moment. You realize you’re doing it and people are watching. Ironically enough this opens up conversations like who is really supporting you, or which brands or companies are taking notice. It’s all about your own perspective. How do you see the life you want? Then go after those things by living like you’re already in them. Once I started getting into the groove of filming more, I’d have my moments of doubt. I always cringe at the idea of the word “influencer” or being social media popular because I always saw myself as an artist first. So I decided to flip what that narrative looked like for ME. Part of getting over imposter syndrome is telling yourself you are already doing it.. so you might as well stop questioning it. Again, this takes time and overall is more of a cycle in my eyes. Sometimes our dreams manifest right in front of us and we believe it’s too good to be true, until we’re actually standing in them. When I was a freshman in high school around 2009, I was obsessed with a beauty brand that made huge statements in the makeup industry. Fast forward to this year, I attended an event with them as a Latina Beauty Creator. It felt full circle since back in the day I’d save up all my money to buy their products. I’d be working retail jobs part time while going to college full time, and buying all kinds of makeup. So when I receive PR from brands now it’s like the teenager inside me is jumping up and down. That’s when I realize I’m right where I’m supposed to be.c
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m definitely a Miami girl to the core. I was born and raised in such a unique multicultural city and obviously, beauty is a huge factor. I value nostalgia and tradition in my life the most so creating something that has my legacy on it is a big deal.
I never want to be a generic kind of artist when it comes to my brand or sales. I always knew I wanted to create something authentic, classic, and different. Now that I’ve expanded my network and have been attending more events while making my way, I’m getting ready to hit the drawing board and make my statement. It’s all going to be worth it.
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?
Community is a huge factor. I took a leap of faith after having my son and attended a networking/women’s empowerment event. I was about 4 months post-partum. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it even though I was nervous. I didn’t know what to expect either when I attended. I was soooo glad I did. I built amazing relationships and also supported local brands. It was important to me to connect with other women who share the same struggles and still built a success story of their own. The way you present yourself is also a crucial factor. How you walk into a room, how you speak to people, how you treat people. People never forget how you made them feel. I always try to leave a positive impression. Determination is a quality I have but tend to struggle with. I feel sometimes that I’m not doing enough, even though I always work with that mindset of getting things done. I tend to look ahead and forget to be present. I get too determined sometimes I think, haha. I forget to stop and smell the roses.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
As a Latina, It’s important to me to seek brands that value inclusivity and tailor to things in my everyday life. As I worked retail during college, I had the absolute honor and privilege of participating in the initial Fenty Beauty launch at Sephora. Growing up I always admired Riri since she came from humble beginnings in the Caribbean. I felt like I saw myself in her because she came in and changed the game but remained so humble. Having that kind of representation is a big deal. I helped build and put together so many displays, work in the beauty studio, and match so many people to the world famous foundation she came out with. I felt seen as a makeup artist and beauty consumer. From 2017 and on, I’ve heavily supported the Fenty Beauty brand. I trust their products and their mission on making beauty so accessible and fun. How could I not? I just filmed a review on Fenty Hair, and my girl never disappoints.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatgalnina_/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thatgalnina?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Image Credits
Photographer for Diner – ChiTouch (Latisha Williams)
