Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Markesha Hollins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Markesha, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
As a young child, I didn’t always have the confidence and self-esteem levels I have now. I hated my body. I was always told to cover up and hide my developing body. I was made fun of because of my complexion and my large forehead. I would sometimes look in the mirror and cry because I believed I wasn’t pretty by society’s norms. As a child, I never saw myself becoming a model.
Then things changed. I looked in the mirror and really stared. I stared long and hard. I ran my hands across my forehead and said out loud, “Dang, girl, your forehead is big, and I LOVE IT.” I learned to embrace my forehead. One of the best models, in my opinion, ever—Tyra Banks—has a big forehead. I watched America’s Next Top Model and saw the way she angled her face, how she embraced her forehead, how she pulled her hair back. It helped me learn to admire my forehead more.
I became more confident in my skin over time. This transformation was especially accelerated when I was selected for my first runway show ever with TSX Design House. That moment was a significant boost to my self-esteem and confidence. Knowing that I was chosen validated my sense of self and power.
Seeing more representation in a positive manner further reinforced my confidence. I realized that I had always been beautiful; I just didn’t know it until I discovered it myself. Over time, I learned to embrace my uniqueness and recognize my worth, and that’s how I developed my confidence and self-esteem.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact in the world of Human Resources and the creative industry. I am focusing on expanding my horizons in both the HR field and my creative pursuits. My journey has been a blend of continuous learning, personal growth, and a deep commitment to fostering positive workplace environments and inspiring artistic expression.
One of the most exciting aspects of my career is the opportunity to shape organizational culture and enhance employee experiences. I believe that a thriving workplace is built on mutual respect, clear communication, and opportunities for growth. This belief drives me to implement innovative HR practices that not only support business objectives but also prioritize employee well-being.
Currently, I am exploring new opportunities. I am particularly excited about roles that involve strategic people operations, talent management, and organizational development. These areas not only align with my expertise but also fuel my passion for creating supportive and dynamic work environments. I am in the process of opening an HR Consulting Firm.
In addition to my professional endeavors in HR, I am a professional model, show producer, and creative. I am thrilled to be collaborating with TSX Design House on their upcoming projects for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, including the FNL network show for October 2024 showcasing the TSX Design House legacy collection. This showcase will be broadcast on the FNL network to an international audience. This will be the third season I will be featured on the FNL network with TSX Design House.
This partnership allows me to merge my passion for fashion and production, creating captivating shows celebrating diversity, creativity, and luxury.
Moreover, I am working with Battle Box of The Battle Box Lounge on my first Cosplay Fashion Show called “The Cosplay Couture Gala.” This event is particularly special to me as it combines my love for fashion, creativity, and the vibrant world of cosplay. The Cosplay Couture Gala aims to elevate cosplay fashion, showcasing intricate designs and unique characters in a glamorous setting. The show is set for July 20, 2024, at The Battle Lounge in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I am also passionate about mentoring young professionals in both HR and the creative fields. Sharing my knowledge and experiences with the next generation of leaders is incredibly fulfilling. I enjoy providing guidance on career development, networking strategies, and navigating the complexities of their respective industries.
In summary, my professional journey is driven by a passion for enhancing workplace environments, fostering employee growth, and inspiring artistic expression. Whether through my consultancy, creative collaborations, or mentorship, I am dedicated to making a positive impact in both the field of Human Resources and the creative industry. I look forward to continuing this journey and exploring new opportunities to contribute to the success of organizations, the well-being of their employees, and the celebration of creativity.
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 key qualities and skills that have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, effective communication, and continuous learning. These attributes have shaped my career and personal growth, and I believe they are essential for anyone embarking on their own journey either as becoming a professional model or starting off in a professional traditional career.
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges has been crucial in both my HR career and creative pursuits. Resilience helped me navigate the uncertainties of job transitions and the competitive world of modeling. My advice for those early in their journey is to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey and use them as learning experiences. Cultivate a positive mindset and develop strategies to manage stress and stay motivated.
Effective Communication: Whether in HR, modeling, or show production, clear and effective communication has been a cornerstone of my success. It has enabled me to build strong relationships, articulate my ideas, and collaborate with diverse teams. For those starting their journey, I recommend honing your communication skills. Practice active listening, be clear and concise in your messaging, and seek feedback to improve. Effective communication not only enhances professional relationships but also boosts your confidence and credibility.
Continuous Learning: Staying curious and committed to learning has allowed me to adapt and thrive in various roles. In the rapidly evolving fields of HR and the creative industry, continuous learning keeps you relevant and competitive. My advice is to NEVER stop learning. Seek out opportunities for professional development, stay updated with industry trends, and be open to new experiences. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, continuous learning is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.
For those early in their journey, developing these qualities and skills can make a significant difference. Embrace resilience by facing challenges head-on and maintaining a positive outlook. Enhance your communication skills through practice and feedback. Commit to lifelong learning to stay ahead and adaptable. By focusing on these areas, you can build a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Several people have been truly impactful in my life.
First and foremost, my mother, Ydisa Patterson, has been a constant source of inspiration and support. She pushes me to be the best version of myself, always listening to my woes and helping me work through them. She celebrates all of my wins, no matter how small, and inspires me to be the best mother I can be. Her encouragement to be a lifelong learner has shaped my journey profoundly.
Ebony Adell of TSX Design House is another key influence. She has pushed me to explore my creative side and do more than I ever thought possible. As a member of her creative team and a signature model for TSX Design House, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. Ebony’s designs are luxurious and deeply rooted in the concept of Chakras, promoting holistic well-being. Working with her has been transformative; she not only hones your modeling skills but also focuses on your overall well-being. She incorporates yoga sessions, meditation, and sound cleansing into our routine. I am incredibly proud and grateful to be in partnership with her.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snkookyz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markeshalilly.harris/?viewas=100000686899395
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/markesha-hollins
Image Credits
drkmatrr
