Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ria. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ria , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I always knew I was a creative from a very early age. I grew up in the church surrounded by a family full of creatives. Doing skits, talent shows, and all things geared toward expression. I discovered a feeling I didn’t find anywhere else.
In school, I was heavily involved in theatre, drama, and choir. Completely enamored with performing, acting, singing, and modeling… I simply followed that passion. Even when people suggested my time would be better used in other spaces, I knew what the Lord was saying to me about who I am. I am now in the phase of seeing these decisions bear fruit, further confirming my purpose.
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 journey of personal development, like many, is filled with various key experiences. My schedule in high school wasn’t a typical one. I missed out on a few homecomings because I was deeply involved in pageant life; rehearsals and practices filling most of my fall seasons. My senior year, I was first runner-up for the Miss Michigan Teen USA title.
After graduating in 2015, I began exploring music… recording my first professional studio records, learning to write songs, and discovering my artistic identity – all while attending Wayne State University with a major in theatre. Through my connections as a theatre major, I was able to land a few roles in local plays and short films, helping me grow creatively and build the foundations of my own network in Detroit.
By 2018, I realized one of my childhood goals and became a signed recording artist. Diving deeper into my craft and, more importantly, the business of music. In this process, I began to understand how critically important it was to represent myself authentically and maintain creative control over my art.
Around the same time, I met my current boyfriend and creative partner, Jonah, the grandson of legendary recording artist Aretha Franklin. We fell in love. We took time to grow spiritually, separated ourselves from the team we encountered each other through and started preparing for where God was leading us next. We founded a production company, Peny Detroit, a direct result of learning the importance of creating and owning your own content in today’s market. In just 5 years we’ve managed to gain partners in a multitude of different arenas, including culinary, sports, health and wellness & music.
Inspired by my own modeling journey, I developed HI.RES MODELS, a Detroit-based modeling agency dedicated to shaping the future of model development, style, and creative production. Our mission is to elevate the individual by providing a safe, holistic approach to modeling rather than focusing solely on consumption. Through guided development, strategic industry coaching, and intentional safe spaces, we empower models to align with their highest selves while creating dynamic and meaningful art. HI.RES MODELS recently produced a successful fashion show for Detroit Month of Design 2025 (hosting over 500 people) and is officially launching before the end of the year.
Both brands reflect my passion for creativity and my commitment to building intentional spaces for others to create and express themselves. My journey from being just a creative to becoming a business owner has shaped my mission, reaffirmed my desire to lead with the heart and reminded me to always prioritize the people behind the work.
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?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are trust in the Lord, internal peace, and self confidence. I’ve learned the importance of healing and seeing life through heavens perspective.
Some advice I would offer to the people early in their journey to greatness; Trust that God created you for a purpose, that your life and gifts have meaning, and that you’re not here by accident. At the same time, it’s crucial to develop your craft, hone your skills, and build confidence in yourself. Prepare for what’s to come as if it’s already set in stone, because it is, you’re just walking into it.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal clients are creatives and brands that value the highest quality creative production. They are people who love to create, whether professionally or in their free time, and who prioritize both the craft and the people who make it possible.
I’m drawn to those who approach their work with passion and intentionality, understanding that creativity thrives in a supportive and collaborative environment. My ideal client understands the importance of creating a space focused on the people that create the product, not just the product itself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hiresmodels.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/channelria?igsh=YjZ0dnpjeDk4YnVq&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/ria-channelria-618479354
Image Credits
@penydetroit
@benzo_be
@creativepearco
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
