Today we’d like to introduce you to Tru Callaway.
Tru, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
There are so many facets to who I am, but one of the most defining is my entrepreneurial spirit. I am the founder of Trulei Versatile Studios, a creative consultancy and professional photography business specializing in visionary execution. I launched this venture in 2016 after earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts, driven by a desire to create high-fashion editorial work that stands out, tells profound stories, and brings visibility to emotions and experiences that are often felt but rarely seen.
My mission is twofold: to capture the raw beauty of every person I photograph and to use my visionary abilities to help others bring their ideas to life. Whether through thoughtful planning, hands-on support, or guiding creative direction, I strive to transform concepts into reality, ensuring that every project is not only realized but deeply impactful. Trulei Versatile Studios is more than a business—it’s a platform for artistry, storytelling, and empowerment.
The second business I own is Tru Soul Healing, which I founded in 2021 after discovering my natural gift as a healer. Having successfully healed myself from chronic Graves’ disease, I realized my purpose was to share this transformative journey with others. This realization inspired me to immerse myself in the study of herbalism, using myself as a patient to develop and refine my craft.
Through this work, I created my signature sea moss capsules and other custom herbal formulas designed to help people achieve vitality and wellness. I proudly call myself a “sea moss pimp” and the neighborhood healer because my life’s mission is to guide others toward their own healing in the most holistic and empowering way possible. Tru Soul Healing isn’t just a business—it’s my passion and calling, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reclaim their health naturally.
One of the most defining aspects of my life is my modeling career, which I fully embraced in 2021 after earning my Master of Fine Arts in Performance, New Media, and Photography. This journey is deeply personal and rooted in resilience. Between completing my bachelor’s degree in 2014 and starting my master’s in 2018, I faced a life-altering challenge. I underwent extensive reconstructive surgeries to rebuild both of my legs after being diagnosed with a rare degenerative knee disorder that could have left me wheelchair-bound.
Learning to walk again was more than a physical triumph—it ignited a determination within me to walk major runways, grace magazine covers, and inspire others to rise above their perceived limitations.
Since beginning my professional modeling career, I’ve worked with several small mother agencies in Houston, but the majority of my work has been independently booked and funded. My paid projects have focused on runway and video, and I’ve had the honor of being featured in multiple Tobe Nwigwe projects since 2022 as an extra and choir member. My runway experience includes NYFW, Runway with Jimmie, Art Hearts Miami Swim Week, and The Model Experience LA.
My career is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence, and I remain committed to inspiring others through my work.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road I’ve traveled through life has been anything but smooth. I’ve faced countless trials and adversities, each one shaping me into the woman I am today. For that, I am deeply grateful. These challenges have forged my strength, filled me with love and compassion, and instilled an unshakable determination. I stand here as a truly unique individual, shaped by resilience and purpose, ready to embrace whatever lies ahead.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I believe I addressed much of this earlier, but what I’m most proud of is my ability to adapt, pivot, and never question my worth. I don’t fear missing out—instead, I fear not living authentically. This commitment to being true to myself drives me to make tough decisions, even when they lead to moments of profound solitude.
I am also incredibly proud of my solo exhibition last year, Casket Sharp. Casket Ready., which showcased 24 of my high-fashion editorial portraits. This series delves into the cultural significance of the Southern Baptist phrase “casket sharp,” describing someone impeccably dressed, often with the morbid undertone of being funeral-ready. Deeply rooted in African American culture, the concept embodies dark humor, resilience, and dignity, reflecting the ongoing struggle for identity and self-expression in the face of systemic oppression.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me truly happy is the ability to fully live in the present moment. I find joy in even the smallest things because I understand the weight of life’s hardships—I’ve experienced profound pain and know what it means to endure. My happiness stems from the deep realization that the present is all we truly have. I am profoundly aware of how blessed and abundant my life is, and this awareness fuels a constant practice of gratitude, grounding me in peace and purpose every day.
Pricing:
- Seamoss capsules start at 35$
- Herbal Consults start at 55$
- 15 minute discovery calls are free for Creative consulting
- My standard portrait package starts at 300$
- Booking as a model you can buy my rates on my model portfolio at SheTru.com
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.shetru.com
- Instagram: @truleiversatilestudios
- Facebook: @trusoulhealing
- Twitter: @the.modeltru
Image Credits
Photographer of featured portrait : Crystal Smiley The two professional portraits are my art work from the series Casket Sharp , Casket Ready @truleiversatilestudios My model Portrait is @wurigo
