Today we’d like to introduce you to Adaeze Okoli.
Hi Adaeze, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hey there VoyageLA! I’m currently a 23 years old professional model and author. I’ve been modeling for seven years now. I’ve grown so much from when I first got started. I never thought I would be where I am at now in my career. I knew I was on to something great when I first became published on the cover of Salyse magazine.
Shortly after I was published on Style Me Pretty (one of the biggest wedding inspo blogs). A few months ago I signed to an amazing modeling agency called Lmodelz. I can’t wait to keep excelling and accomplishing my goals. When it comes down to my writing, I first became a published author at the age of seventeen. Shortly after my first signed contract, I switched publishers. My book ‘For the Love of Peter Jones’ was republished by: Tell Our Vision Publishing at the age of nineteen years old. My publishing journey was a hard one. I heard a lot of no’s before I heard my first, “yes.” I’m so glad I didn’t give up.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
With modeling, I would say it was pretty smooth. Although after a few years, I started to find myself getting stuck. Although I love freelance modeling, I needed a change. I felt it was time to find an agent so that I could get some of the more exclusive jobs that aren’t available otherwise. As far as writing, that was a lengthy process. I remember I emailed tons of agents who rejected my story. Some even told me my book was really good, but not for their publishing house. I got discouraged and wanted to give up. Something told me to keep pushing and I’m forever grateful that I didn’t. You have to believe in yourself.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m most known for my modeling. I work in print, fashion, parts, fitness, and commercial modeling. One of my proudest moments is getting published on the cover of Salyse Magazine. I’m proud of myself because the first time I was ever published, I ended up on the cover. In my writing career I’m most proud of completing my novel in my sophomore year of high school and then becoming published at the age of seventeen. What sets me apart from others is my determination.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I’m a risk taker for sure! I don’t have a problem putting myself out there, regardless if I fall or not. I started writing query letters to literary agents at the age of fifteen. I had no idea what I was doing, but I didn’t care. All I knew is I had a story, and I was going to put it in as many people’s faces as I could. This risk eventually paid off a few years later. Another risk I took is turning my personal Instagram into my open portfolio. I was worried what people would say about my work, but I decided to post my modeling anyway. I’m glad I did it because some of my best jobs have come through social media because of my Instagram presence.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.instagram.com/Shecraze
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/authoradaeze
Image Credits
Alicia Ann Photography Photography By MJD Aaron Lacy J.M_West Noeljv
