We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lauryn Williams a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Lauryn, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only black dark skinned female model in my line of work has made me more confident in my skin and body that I have ever been. I’ve modeled for multiple brands that has claimed that their shoot are “diverse” and when I walk on set, i’m the only woman of color with a dark complection, I don’t complain but I show UP and show OUT because this my job and you will remember who I am. Most women would feel discouraged because they don’t see anybody who looks like them. Witnessing and playing a role in the fashion industry has definitely made me a tough cookie! You have to be! especially if you want to succeed in this plane field. Yes we STILL need more diversity in fashion shoots, runway, and commercials, but you learn to be the example and embrace where you are and WHO you are. Be the woman that young black girls look up to. I constantly say affirmations to myself before set, behind the scenes. It doesn’t matter what people think….if you know you are THAT GIRL yourself!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My brand/model name is LAW, Lauryn Ayanna Williams.
I noticed that my name originally was RAW and I shouldn’t want to compare or look for myself in anyone else but myself. The name is unique and will not be overlooked. It stands for POWER, no you can’t break me but if you do… it will be consequences, i will have no chance but to go harder. It just STANDS OUT.
I’m slowly but surely making a name for myself in Houston Texas and this name will be known worldwide very soon.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
3 qualities’ that I know has helped my career so far is 1. confidence, you have to stand up for yourself or nobody else will. 2. being positive in whatever outcome, things happen for a reason and God will close a door If it’s going to hinder you from being the best version of you! 3. networking
My best advice is to BE YOURSELF. As cliche it may sound or how many times you have heard that line before, it’s so true. You go farther being yourself, you can only pretend for so long… and soon it will consume you.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents have done for me…. They always let me choose my path, no matter if it sounded off the wall, They never made it seem that I was being unrealistic and that whatever that I desire I CAN HAVE, it is not out of reach for me. It wasn’t until I stepped foot in the real world that I noticed your peers are not as supportive and not everybody will see your vision. I absolutely love my 2 biggest supporters and fans. The sky the limit as long as im breathing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelaurynwilliams/
