Today we’d like to introduce you to Leniah Maxwell
Hi Leniah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A relationship with God, entrepreneurship, creativity, and community were all attributes that I was frequently exposed to in my environment growing up. Music was rarely not played whether I was at home with my mom or at my grandmothers home. My family is full of talented painters, decorators, and innovators born and raised in New Orleans. At home, newest technologies wasn’t something that was prioritized in my childhood so being social and being one with nature was never foreign to me. On top of my environment, I always had a “go for it” personality. Seeing so much art and music motivated me as young as 6 years old to sign up for talent shows. My mom had me involved in dance and always supported me when I wanted to perform.
It wasn’t until my last year middle school transitioning into high school that I decided to take on the entrepreneurial gene that resided on my mom’s side of the family. I played basketball from 8th grade up until I graduated high school so having a part time job like all my friends wasn’t ideal. That was when I first decided to become a hairstylist. Then at 15, since my peers always complimented my fashion style and my sewing expertise, I decided to begin growing my business by customizing my classmates clothes as I did for myself.
Once COVID happened which was also my senior year of high school, I decided it was time to get more serious with the visions I always had for myself.
Being so involved with nature so young, having a mom that always had me and my siblings volunteering at the Non-Profits she worked at, and my love for creativity helped shape the vision I had for my brand. To make clothes that allow people to express themselves but to always consider ways to raise awareness and help my community and others communities.
As I continue my creative journey that I consider a very complex one. No matter if I’m acting in a play or film, dancing, performing my songs or raps, or showcasing my brand in a fashion show, my priority is community. My priority is to serve. And my priority is to help others break free to express themselves through creativity.
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?
Being that I dabble into so much and started at such a young age. there’s a lot of trail and error involved. Not wanting to neglect an art of expression. Not wanting to say no to opportunities. Experiencing lots of burn out while I navigate not only having passions but also true skills in what I do.
Knowing when to prioritize creativity and when to “snap back into reality” especially as I bring on more adult responsibilities has been a challenge.
Is see such vivid visions that I can neglect the present moment. But God never hesitates to sit me down and ground me. Which is why I think that relationship is so important. No matter what field anyone is in or what their purpose is in this life, we’re all trying to figure this life thing out and found our own way. Being close to God makes this journey was easier and peaceful as God intended.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a sustainable fashion designer and manufacturer, dancer, actress, singer, rapper, music producer, entrepreneur, activist, humanitarian, and henna artist.
What am I known for? My most common question I get is “What don’t you do!?” Lol.
I’m most proud of my activism and humanitarianism. My heart melts knowing that I can pass on helpful wisdom and resources that have the power to make someone’s life better.
What sets me apart from others is my mind and soul. In that we are all unique.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is watching my mom getting ready at home before she left to perform at her open mics. Sometimes if it wasn’t a school night she would let me and my siblings come with her. I promise you it was like watching a celebrity behind the scenes. My mom is a poet, comedian, artist, writer, self published author, she’s everything to me. She is why I dabble in so much, because she does it so effortlessly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fashion-by-niah.square.site/
- Instagram: @niahh.jpg
- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/prodbyniah
Image Credits
N/A
