We recently had the chance to connect with Empress Giddings and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Empress, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity because sticking to my moral values and respecting the world and people around me is very important.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Empress and I am a 16 year old passionate model from Baltimore, Maryland. I grew up in PG County, DC & Virginia. I have been introduce to modeling at the age of 5 and loved the fashion industry world ever since. I am part of the National Honor Society with a IB GPA of 5.4. I also love to bake and do activities with my school & model friends. I get to travel the east coast building my modeling portfolio and skills to become an highly paid International Model.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I have always been a shy kid growing up, and modeling/dancing always help me bring out my creative side. Participating in countless events over the years have help me master my skills. I always look at my videos from the past to remind myself how far I have come. My mom is an entrepreneur so I learn about promoting, networking, professionalism, marketing and pursuing your natural skills because of her.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Sometimes I feel like giving up when I do not get casted for certain shows, but then I just keep trying and I know my time will come.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The fashion industry is very cut throat, they have a standard of only having models a certain height/size in order to qualify. Women and men comes is all forms of sizes and shapes, so clothing only slim/tall individuals is very bias. When in actuality, the designers can choose any kinds of models they want to showcase their collection.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I feel like I am doing what I was born to do, I am self-taught and naturally great in modeling. I had to show my mom that I really want to be a model by keeping a positive attitude and giving my all for every castings/shows. When I was younger and in my preteen attitude stage, I would say things like, “ I did not ask to do this, you signed me up!” And my mom replied with, “ Ok, you let me know when you want to do it, and remember I cannot take care of you forever so have a plan for your future”. I then realized that in order to have a career as a model, I have to appreciate my mom and all the designer I get to enjoy my passion with.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
SuplexPro by Malik Melton
The Model Experience
ProPixel Imaging LLC
Michael Ivory Photography
Getty Images
Shenoda Kamal Amin
Anja Stoll Photography
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