Today we’d like to introduce you to Zelda Owusu
Hi Zelda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in Yonkers, NY, with my family hailing from Ghana, West Africa. As the youngest and only female in my family, I embraced a range of interests throughout high school, excelling in honors classes and immersing myself in activities like cosmetology, dance, and drama club. My passion for the performing arts has been a constant in my life.
I also served on the leadership council for Girls Inc. of Westchester, which fueled my commitment to empowerment and leadership. After graduating high school, I initially pursued a liberal arts major at Westchester Community College but switched to Business Administration in my second semester to better understand leadership, finances, and the business world, all with the goal of becoming my own boss.
A few years later, a close friend introduced me to modeling. Initially hesitant, I saw this as an opportunity to get my foot in the door of the industry. I connected with former fashion model Shereena Delgado, founder of Straight Walk Runway, who mentored me and helped me achieve remarkable results. I’ve been featured in Vogue and have walked in numerous fashion shows, allowing me to express my creativity in new ways.
My mission is to inspire and teach others to accomplish their goals while giving back to the community. I always put God first, believing that with faith, great things are to come. I’m an outspoken individual with a big heart—resilient, efficient, and hardworking. The beauty industry is where I see my future, and I’m excited for all that’s to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been an easy journey. I’ve been homeless for seven months, working two jobs in Manhattan and at David’s Bridal on Central Park Avenue in Yonkers. The travel was exhausting, especially while living in a women’s shelter in the Bronx before moving to Brooklyn. These experiences took a toll on my mental health; I struggled to process everything. Yet, through it all, I remained strong and prayed for a change.
Eventually, I moved to Connecticut with a family member, and from there, I was able to get my own place and a car. Despite everything I’ve faced, I stand resilient and focused on what I want and need in life. When I started modeling, I had little confidence and self-esteem, having lost so much along the way. It was challenging, but I persevered and regained my sense of self.
To anyone who has faced similar struggles, remember that everything happens for a reason. Modeling has profoundly impacted my life, and I love it. Life is tough, but you have to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Well I’m a patient care representative at a medical facility, working there for a few years. I’m also a self taught hairstylist that currently trying to apply for cosmetology school to become not only a stylist but also an esthetician as well. I’m know for my hard work, smile, self a humor, business mind set but also strong woman that came so far in life.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I have Instagram @_zelda_official and TikTok @_zelda_official1 which I post my modeling and content. You can also email me to collaborate and do business with me, [email protected]. I will soon also will have an YouTube channel which I’ll be vlogging, give tips and etc, it will be coming soon so lookout to see more of me.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Photographer for vogue:
Elys Berroteran
Ig:elysmcm
