Meet Aissa Umaru

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aissa Umaru.

Aissa, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My story starts out as a dancer who secretly always wanted to model. I grew up watching Americas next top model thinking I would never be able to do that because I am not tall or thin enough. I remember only a few months of me moving to Los Angeles, I would have people constantly approaching me asking if I modeled and would say no. Eventually, I started doing test shoots with different photographers and thinking to myself I can actually do this. There were plenty of moments I doubted myself because of social media and not knowing where I fit in. All my heart knew was I wanted to be a model. Through all the anxiety and depression I really pushed through. Just a few months ago I booked two campaigns, one with Dose of Colors and the other with Secndnture by Jordyn Woods. I would have to say I am very excited for what the future holds. I hope my story inspires other young women and men to keep fighting for what they believe in. Also, to never give up.

Has it been a smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road at all. For me, my struggle was with myself. Just like many people, I have anxiety and depression. It is something I really don’t talk about but I want to be able to share this to somebody who can relate and let them know they are not alone. Having these illnesses is very hard. I was constantly in my head when I didn’t book a gig. I would be so hard on myself because if I didn’t get a casting or a call back it meant those who support me would be disappointed. It took me a while to realize that I was the only one thinking this way and I was stressing myself over nothing. So little tricks I would teach myself is to say out loud I am okay, I am loved and I am grateful.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Model story. Tell us more about the business.
Being an independent model is amazing. It teaches me how to be self-sufficient, strong and a go-getter. My favorite style of modeling is beauty because I love makeup. I’m actually a certified makeup artist, thats what I did for a living. Being able to incorporate the two is my dream. I love going on sets and when photographers ask me who did my makeup and I would say it was me. What I am most proud of about myself is that I never gave up on the hopes to become a professional model. All my hard work is finally paying off. What sets me apart from others is that I will always be humble.

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
In 5-10 years, I still see myself finally getting signed to an agency, continuing modeling and within those years, I will definitely start my own beauty company.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aissaumaru/

Image Credit:
Photographers: Cindy Romero, Marco Roman, STLZphotos, Amiee Nicolas

Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.