We were lucky to catch up with Leanna Long recently and have shared our conversation below.
Leanna, 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 specifically remember having a conversation with my old basketball coach who character I admire. I had just transferred back home after my first semester of college and I was in a funk of trying to decide if i wanted to continue basketball or get in my photography/styling bag. the funk was really bad because i had so many ideas that I wanted to do within my community, my future businesses, school, and i also knew if i decided to continue basketball that some of that wouldn’t happen at all. I was first gen in college fighting the battles that come with that, along with basically being deeply depressed. I prayed and cried so much during that time that it lead to a deepen relationship with God which lead to me finding my purpose. I found my purpose and the reason why I’m still here on earth by building my relationship with God. He told/showed me it.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I always try to briefly summarize who I am and all that i do but sometimes it’s not that easy. My friends call me Lee but since you and I just met; you can call me Leanna. I’m a South Side baby who love her community and getting to know why people are the way that they are. My brand is called KaeL (Kay-Elle) which includes freelance photography, wardrobe styling, and blogging. I love editorial shoots but most of all just being accessible yet affordable to those in my community to capture special moments of their life and/or making them look better with my tips when it comes to styling. I blog about my life sometimes and all i have experienced on my journey. I make it known how my relationship with God plays a role in everything I do; personal, photography, styling and also blogging. He’s my best friend and if he say no; I cant partake in it. I am currently getting my masters for Mental Health Counseling that I also take pride in. I’m a huge advocate for mental health and therapy which will transition into me bettering my community with those tools. I cant shorten up 28 great years of living into a short summary so stay connected with me to see the journey for yourself.
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?
Three skills/qualities/areas of knowledge that impacted my journey would be being a young woman of morals, transparency, and having creativity. I’m well grounded in my opinion. Sometimes when certain things happen in life; its hard to stay the course. It’s hard to stay true to who you are in today’s time due to too much influence but also wanting to accomplish many things in so little time. So being transparent with yourself under all circumstances is not for the weak. My ability to get creative and create various ways to do what I love helps me stay the course. One of the best advice I can give someone who’s early on this journey would spend time learning who you are, all you want and why you want to do it. Figure out your “why”; the rest will flow so effortlessly.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
My content creators, my folks who want to enjoy modeling, creative shoots or have wild ideas for shoots. I want to partner up more with them so we can create magic. Of course the many artists and business owners Houston have but those in other cities such as Dallas, Austin, & other states. I just want to create magic every where; not just in Houston. If you’re reading this and you are one of those people and or just want to connect you can always contact me though my website (www.leannalong.com) and or my social handlers (@leethestylist_).
Contact Info:
- Website: www.leannalong.com
- Instagram: leethestylist_
- Facebook: Leanna Long
- Linkedin: LeannaLong
- Twitter: biggleo_
Image Credits
One of my previous seniors: Chamia Starks One of my favorite models: Elise I partnered up with six8teen.LLC and the beautiful model name is Queen (if im not mistaken. The prom couple was my latest client this pass school year: Donavon and his friend.
