We recently connected with Shaniel Marsh and have shared our conversation below.
Shaniel, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Being the Only One in the Room: Thriving as a Black Girl in Exclusive Spaces
As a Black girl, being the only one in the room often feels like walking a tightrope between self-assurance and constant self-awareness. It’s a unique position that comes with its challenges but also with great opportunities for growth. Over time, I’ve learned to navigate these spaces by embracing my identity, leveraging my uniqueness, and equipping myself with tools to succeed and thrive.
1. Embracing My Identity
At first, being the only one who looks like me in a room made me feel isolated, like I had to fit into an environment not designed for me. But instead of shrinking, I chose to own my identity. I remind myself that I bring value to any space simply by being there. My culture, perspective, and experiences aren’t liabilities—they’re assets. This shift in mindset has been the foundation of my confidence.
2. Building a Strong Foundation
Success starts with preparation. Whether it’s excelling academically, honing my craft, or mastering the subject at hand, I make sure I am knowledgeable and capable. This doesn’t just make me effective—it also helps me command respect, regardless of preconceived notions or biases.
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?
Being a Growing Public Figure Without a Community
Success can be a lonely road, and as a growing public figure, that truth becomes magnified. On the surface, it may look like I have it all together—connections, achievements, and visibility—but beneath the spotlight is the weight of feeling alone, lacking a true community to lean on.
The Illusion of Connection
As a public figure, people often assume that I’m surrounded by an endless network of support. They see the followers, the engagement, and the accolades and equate it with belonging. But the reality is that public success doesn’t always translate to personal closeness. Many of the relationships I encounter are transactional, built on what I can offer rather than who I truly am. This creates a disconnect—a longing for authenticity in a space that often prioritizes appearances.
The Burden of Visibility
Being in the public eye means carrying a responsibility to show up, inspire, and deliver, even when I’m struggling internally. There’s little room for vulnerability when you’re expected to lead or be an example.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, there are three qualities and skills that stand out as the most impactful in shaping my growth: resilience, self-awareness, and adaptability. These have not only allowed me to navigate the complexities of the modeling industry and public life but have also helped me remain grounded and focused on my long-term vision.
1. Resilience: Staying Strong Through Challenges
The modeling industry, much like the world of public visibility, is full of rejection, criticism, and unexpected hurdles. Resilience became my anchor in this storm. It’s the ability to push forward, even when the odds seem stacked against me. Whether it was hearing “no” one too many times, dealing with public scrutiny, or managing personal struggles, resilience helped me see setbacks as stepping stones rather than roadblocks.
Advice:
• Shift your mindset: Instead of viewing failure as an endpoint, see it as a lesson. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this experience?”
• Build your emotional toolkit: Practice mindfulness, journaling, or therapy to process emotions in a healthy way. A strong mind is the foundation of resilience.
• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge every step forward, no matter how small. This will help you stay motivated during tough times.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, especially as a growing introvert navigating public life, social demands, and personal responsibilities. For me, the key has been understanding my limits, creating space to recharge, and developing strategies to process those moments without losing myself. Here’s how I manage and what advice I’d offer to others in similar situations:
1. Create Space for Solitude
As an introvert, solitude is essential for recharging. When I’m overwhelmed, I intentionally step back from social interactions and public-facing responsibilities to spend time alone.
Strategies:
• Schedule quiet time: Set aside time in your day for activities that allow you to be alone—reading, journaling, or simply sitting in silence.
• Use boundaries: Politely decline invitations or requests that you don’t like
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanelnoc?igsh=MWFhajk0eHQ4bnMxeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@chanelnoc?si=9OW023SPcdMOAPTh
