Today we’d like to introduce you to Denice Smith.
Denice R. Smith; also known as Denice Noir, is an American model, actress and Producer. Denice has displayed her many talents for five consecutive years on showcases such as RIP the Runway; which aired on BET in New York City. Denice’s passion for acting and modeling inspired her to become a New York resident; where in addition to being continually involved in magazine shoots and fashion runways, she also landed a brief role in the popular television series: Law & Order. Denice was born in Houston, TX and blessed with a naturally athletic physique and a fiery spirit ready to face the camera lens. School was where Denice realized her dreams of being on the silver screen. After graduating and completing a Scholarship given education to Grambling State University, Denice swiftly moved to New York City. This move to the fashion and entertainment capital jump-started her career. Life in New York wasn’t always easy though, for a time; Denice became homeless but possessed a willingness to keep going and follow her dreams. In 2010 Denice decided to move to LA to find her Niche’.
During this time creativity took over and she created various TV Series such as “The Real Hollywood Grind” and “Blocks”. Things were evolving and changing at a great pace for her. In 2016, Denise found herself in a relationship that suddenly became abusive after only 6 Months of dating. The impact of the relationship to a great toll on Denice’s life. Denice lost everything all over again and was back at phase one and ready to revamp her mind, body, spirit and her Career. After moving back to Texas, with support and love from family and friends Denice became empowered and began to heal from within, gaining back that strength and zest to cultivate greatness Recently, Denice aired on the hit TV Series on OWN Network; Ready to Love”. Though she did not find love she is thankful for the opportunity Which has added to her confidence and education on the art of Television. Given the opportunity, Denice is sure she can not only display the knowledge and skill she has gained but also unleash her true potential. Denice recently moved back to Los Angeles, California and is actively seeking new opportunities in Modeling and Acting that will allow her to recreate and expand upon that New York Magic and even more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My greatest difficulty existed around acceptance. I would say the fight to be accepted as not only a female in the industry but as well an African American. Unfortunately, this existed amongst both males and females across various races. However, because of my strong rearing and background the road has gotten smoother.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a model, Actress, Producer, Coach and the epitome of an All American Girl; full of drive, passion and dreams! I recently appeared on the show “Ready to Love” however, I hold a host of other experiences ranging from Modeling spreads in Essence, Source and IAM Magazine. I landed a brief role in the popular television series: Law & Order and spent 5 consecutive years on showcases such as RIP the Runway; which aired on BET in New York City. I am locally known in Houston, Tx. as a Coach for Dragons Youth Track and Field. Of all the things that I have accomplished and experienced my proudest moment is a very dear and personal one. Many people have used the phrase “I am my sister’s keeper “; according to my sister, I truly bring life to the statement. Prior to knowing my sister was terminally ill she reached out to me in an unruly amount of pain in the middle of the morning, the shortened version of it all; I was able to rush to her and get her to the hospital of course not knowing it was also saving me more time with my dear sister.
A few days ago while a way on a business endeavor my sister and her Doctors contacted me and let me know that my sister is nearing the end of her battle and has asked me to be her Power of Attorney. The bittersweet moment was so surreal, knowing someone trusts you with everything that is theirs, their life, their children, even their grandchildren brings hurt, joy, peace of mind that you were all that you could be and just so much more. I really feel l like this freedom to speak my truth sets me apart from a lot of people of today. The ability to be transparent, genuine and real. I carry every piece of my life experiences with me whether I am talking with friends, Acting, Model walking, etc. I am not ashamed of who I am, where my experience have led me nor am I ashamed of the Confident, No nonsense Woman that I am today.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Pulling from my own personal experiences; I have been fortunate enough to have true organic relationships/ friendships that afforded me great opportunities for development. I have been able to elevate some of my personal encounters to fulfilling business opportunities. Which is so rewarding because I feel like I finally have a seat at the “Table”; which we know as being a true struggle for women for many years. My advice would be, open yourself up to the understanding that you are a Brand; pull from every encounter and experience that you have. Remain steady and resilient. Being resilient has proven a strong suit for me. Remind yourself that a resilient person is aware of themselves and their own emotional reactions, never forgoing those of the people that surround them. So, in short surround yourself with those who want to succeed and respect the change life brings your way.
Pricing:
- “Keep it Cute” $27.00 T-Shirt
- It Is What It Is $27.00T-shirt
- Goddesse Oil $18.00
- Black Drip $27.00T-Shirt
- Organic Sage $8.00
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Denicenoir.com
- Instagram: Denicenoir21
- Facebook: Denicenoir
- Twitter: @Denicenoir
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/DeniceNoir
Image Credits:
Ferrell Phelps Photography
