Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaidra James.
Hi Zaidra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I started modeling at the age of 10 but had to stop shortly after signing with an agency in NYC simply because traveling back and forth was a hassle, and my mother could no longer do it due to her job obligations. I was not just a model at the age of 10, but I was also a very talented Track and field athlete and competitive dancer; this continued throughout my high school years until I attended College (Texas Southern University) and decided to give modeling another try because I was so drawn to it and passionate about it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road for me. It has been very rocky and filled with dead ends because the modeling industry is very competitive and all about who you know and what connections you have. Starting off, lots of models viewed me as a threat, which meant I had to dig for information and grow as a model, and nothing came easy at all.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a model who specializes in runway, editorial, swimwear, fitness, catalog, commercial, parts, glamour, and beauty who is also a social media influencer. I use my talent and platform to inspire, motivate, and entertain, showcasing my journey and lifestyle. I do this to help women and models of all ages, shades, and sizes to love and embrace who they are no matter what. I also have a new page (@zmodel101) outside of my main page (@zaidrajames) that is strictly about modeling to help models with their journey. This consists of giving them EVERYTHING they need to be a successful model no matter what part of their journey they are on, as well as classes with the full blueprint. I am doing this because it was something I had to struggle to learn and gain access to, and I really want to level the playing field so that every model has a fair chance and do not have to go through what I went through, which is why I am extremely proud of that because it has never been done before on the level that I am doing it.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I would have to say having faith and being an empathetic person who is very tough-skinned is very important.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zaidrajames.squarespace.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaidrajames/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zaidrazayjames
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zaidrajames
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/zmodel101?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Image Credits
@anthropologyphotoco
@recklesscreativ
@caseyfauxx
@cameronxreed
@lamontdesal
@parisemilia.mua
@beatsbychocolate_
@_reagannicolebeautybar
@braidemdown
@purehaircreations
