Today we’d like to introduce you to Takaria Racquel.
Hi Takaria, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Takaria Racquel, and I’m from Shreveport, Louisiana. My early years were tough—growing up in a household with maggots, no hot water, little food, and abuse. My siblings and I had to take baths in plastic crates and survive on canned goods. Despite these hardships, I always knew I wanted more out of life.
Everything changed when my father gained custody of me at two years old. From that moment, I was determined to build the life I dreamed of, believing that I could become a supermodel. Getting out of Shreveport and making a name for myself is something I’m incredibly proud of.
After moving from NYC to Los Angeles, my career began to take off with commercial jobs for UNO, Lululemon, and a role in the upcoming movie “Trust In Love,” set to release in September. However, my journey was far from smooth. I had an abusive ex-boyfriend who funded my move from Atlanta to NYC, but as his jealousy grew, he started to humiliate and harm me publicly. One day, I returned to my downtown LA apartment to find everything gone—my furniture, clothes, shoes, and even my Cane Corso puppy.
With nothing but what was in my purse, I got a lifeline when casting directors for Alexander Wang contacted me for a booking in NYC. I flew there with a one-way ticket and hustled daily until I made it. Now, I run a company developing models and creating their comp cards, sharing my knowledge on my Instagram page @TheUltimateModelSource. I remember the struggle of not knowing how to enter the modeling industry, and I want to be the support I once sought. Helping others achieve their dreams means the world to me, and who knows? They might even open doors for me in the future.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some of my struggles along the way included growing up in an abusive and impoverished household, facing public humiliation and physical abuse from an ex-boyfriend, and dealing with the aftermath of having all my possessions stolen. Additionally, I battled with personal challenges such as greed and a lust for money and material objects, which sometimes clouded my judgment and complicated my journey toward success.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in runway modeling and developing aspiring models. I’m known for my work with top brands and appearances in high-profile publications. I’ve modeled for Alexander Wang, Lululemon, ASOS, and UNO, and I landed a role in the movie “Trust in Love,” which comes out in September. My work has been featured in Harper’s Bazaar and Elle Magazine, and I’ve walked in numerous runway shows.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is being featured in high-profile publications like Harper’s Bazaar and Elle Magazine, indulging in self-care activities such as visiting spas, getting facials, and relaxing in hot tubs. Most importantly, I find great joy in helping aspiring models achieve their goals through my coaching and guidance. Seeing them succeed and knowing I played a part in their journey brings me immense satisfaction.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @TakariaRacquel
