Model Rasheed Bey: Walking by Faith, Preparing for the Future

by Cyrus Webb

Model Rasheed Bey* and I first connected in 2017 when he appeared as a guest on Conversations LIVE radio show. Since then we have stayed connected on Instagram, and it's been great watching his journey.

Month after month, year after year, the Pittsburgh, PA native has pushed forward and been able to build his audience and brand along the way. This year we are able to profile his path in our publication. 


Rasheed, it’s been great seeing you grow on Instagram with your journey. When did you first realize that you were interested in modeling?
Thank you for the opportunity. I was probably in my mid-twenties. I kept hearing people's comments or asking if I model. When I told them I didn't they would say I should pursue it. After a while I thought I'd give it a shot. Now here we are.

Confidence is huge in your industry. Is that something you’ve always had or is it something you’ve developed over time?
Confidence is something I have, but if I'm being honest with you I still struggle with it here and there. I'm human like everyone else, and it's something I have to deal with from time to time.

How did you decide on Instagram as the platform you were going to use to grow your audience?
Instagram was a app that was fun before anything and easy to use. As social media outlets grew Instagram always seemed to stay ahead of the pack, and others like it came and went. To me it was also an app I personally enjoyed using the most, so I stuck with it.

Rasheed, we’re navigating uncertain times right now. What keeps you motivated?
I would say always wanting more. I feel like I haven't even scratched the surface of my potential, and I feel like things are starting to come my way. That in itself is very exciting and keeps me motivated to keep working.

As far as goals go what are you looking forward to when it comes to your modeling career?
To hopefully be able to make a good living doing something I truly love and enjoy. I also want to be able to work with brands and like-minded people who enjoy what I do and hopefully motivate others.

We’re glad to have you in our Acting on Faith issue. How has your faith kept you going?
Faith is always key, and I try to always keep that in mind no matter what. Even if this wasn't going on with the pandemic myself and others would still have hard times. At the end of the day you still need faith to help you get through any day, good or bad.

Speaking of acting, is that something you would also like to explore?
I'd love to do some acting if it came my way. I've always been a huge movie buff and think it's one of the best jobs out there to be able to entertain others. It would also be cool to be someone else for fun and get paid doing it.

Any advice for anyone out there who is interested in pursuing modeling?
I would say know your strengths and always have faith in yourself. Also use yourself to promote yourself, because no one will believe in you more then yourself .

Thanks again for the time, Rasheed. How can our audience stay connected with you? 
The easiest way, of course, is my instagram @sonofprime412. Thank you for the opportunity.

*     Photographed by Devin Robinson

Chris Connell: Fulfilling 'The Promise' of His Gifts

 

by Cyrus Webb

A mutual friend introduced me to Chris Connell this year, and I can honestly say it was a powerful connection. Chris Connell is the kind of guy you want around: he's driven, focused and passionate about his work. Whether we're talking about in front of the camera as a model or actor or now with his production company helping to bring stories to life, you will be hard-pressed to find someone who is willing to give his all to what he does. 

We had a great chat on Conversations LIVE the radio show first, but with us discussing the issue of Faith in this issue of the magazine I knew he would be a great addition here, too. Enjoy the conversation. 

Chris, first of all congratulations on the amazing career you have been able to have. What has it been like for you to reflect on all you have achieved in the entertainment industry?
It’s been exceptionally rewarding when people give acknowledgment to my achievements. Truthfully, I always have my eyes set on new heights, often overlooking these accolades, rarely giving attention to the past. I’m grateful, however, to everyone who continues to support me!

Have you always known that acting or performing was something you wanted to do?
Yes, absolutely; Well, I should say since high school. I’ve been asked for a long time what inspired me. My response: “I have no idea.” I’ve always appreciated strong communication and the opportunity to share the human condition, even under imaginary circumstances. Movies just seemed like the right fit.

This issue of Conversations Magazine is all about acting on faith when it comes to pursuing your goals. What gave you the courage to go for what you wanted in your career.
I could argue that my mother instilled a belief in me that anything I wanted to achieve was possible. Simply put, I will not accept anything less than the very best of myself. When I set a goal, I hit it. When you want something bad enough, you will walk through walls for it. I guess that says that I really want to live different, and I’m confident enough to reach for it. 

I’ve noticed from following you on social media that you’ve been able to engage a lot with your followers. What has it been like for you to pick up new fans from project to project?
It’s been such a blessing. I’m confident in who I am and don’t base my worth over how many likes I get, but just like anyone, It’s nice to know you’re appreciated.

Outside of being a creative yourself and acting on stage, television and film you also have your own production company. How did you get the courage to take that step to bring stories to life through your own platform?
The career of an actor is a challenging one. You’re often at the mercy of other industry professionals when it comes to bringing you on to their opportunity. I chose to give myself the power to create my own opportunities and with a little time and experience Chris Connell Productions was born.

I found out about you, Chris, through a mutual friend . That says a lot about the relationships you have formed in your career. How important has that been for you to have people in your corner who believe in you and your abilities?
It’s critical, and to be honest, I didn’t place enough value in it early in my career. I assumed talent was enough. When you connect with like-minded people who share a similar purpose, you now have a reach positioning you for exponential growth. Social media give us a unique opportunity to make those connections and those who are wise will take advantage of this platform.

The Promise is one of the projects you’re able to promote this year. Tell our readers about it and what it’s like to have your production company bring it to life. 
It’s been truly special to watch this vision develop into a reality, this only possible by the talent and dedication of the team I’m working with. “The Promise” follows an American WWII fighter pilot who’s shot down over the South Pacific. Fighting for his life, he forges an unlikely friendship to help him uphold a promise he made to the love of his life. Making this has been purely incredible, and I appreciate the way it’s challenged me as a filmmaker.

This year has brought challenges to us all, but the entertainment industry has been hit especially hard. How have you been able to use this time to stay active and productive?
I’ve actually leveraged the opportunity. With so many other projects on hold, my team was available more than ever, and I know we all welcomed the chance to build something we’re proud of. I made the decision to never take my foot off the gas, and work within these unique circumstances.

Any advice for anyone that is interested in pursuing a career in the arts, either in front of or behind the camera?
I can respond in so many ways to this question.  If you seek this professionally, you MUST give everything to it. There’s nothing casual about this. For something so engaging, so exhilarating, it’s going to be competitive. Those who rise to its demands will give all of themselves for it and unless you feel the same it’s going to be a tough road. If it’s in you, follow the calling and be bold in your actions.

Thanks for the time, Chris. Glad we had a chance to connect. How can our audience stay connected with you and what’s to come?  
www.chriswconnell.com
Instagram: chriswconnell
Facebook: chriswconnell
chriswconnell@gmail.com

Chris Connell photo:  Dylan Patrick

The Promise post: Chris Connell Productions 

ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT: Danitza, Model

Danitza, what a year you are having: attending your first Grammy Awards and enjoying lots of modeling opportunities. What has it been like to see your dreams coming true?

It has been an absolute blessing. I am very fortunate to have been so accepted in an industry where most think it is very critical. However, in my experience the modeling industry is very protective and accepting. We become like family and that is always nice to have especially if you anyone is going through anything and need a shoulder to lean on.  Having family, friends, and fans supporting you makes it much easier to keep pushing for your goals and dreams.

The Grammys was one of my big highlights of the year and wearing an amazing $8000 dress designed by the international designer Odalys Marino. I also was able to work with Celebrity Makeup Artist Marissa Tomaino the daughter of Rick Harrison (Pawn Stars) and an award-winning competitive hair stylist Angelica Fernandez. I was also able to model in so many shows this year with very talented designers such as Pamela Roehm (Roehm Couture), DeJohnea Thorpe (DeJohnea Bianca), Jacka Saldana (Jacka Couture), Vanessa Froehling (Froehling Couture), Spanx, and so many others. Some of my favorite shows have been with Rougue Productions, Tampa Bay Fashion Week, St Pete Fashion Week (Donna Crowley - Lux Entertainment), Orlando International Fashion Week (Fierce Entertainment). I also was published in my first pinup coffee table book that was shot in an antique shop in Florida with Franco Ortiz as well as two pinup magazines.

It has been an honor to have met these talented people and so many more as they see my light and push me. Some even had me as their first plus size model as they recognize the industry has a need for exclusivity.

We had an opportunity to talk on Conversations LIVE the radio show about your journey. Tell our readers, though, what led you to modeling.

I started out several years ago very depressed and self-conscious due to going through a divorce and a husband not paying attention to me. I was asked to audition for a pinup calendar and decided to do it to get his attention. I enjoyed it and it made me feel a bit more confident and not ashamed of my body. After that I started doing more shoots just for myself. Then people started recognizing my talent and playfulness/energy in front of the camera. I started getting asked to do more shoots and eventually events and it all started to grow from there. 

I have had times I didn’t feel as great with my work and even wanted to give up. However, I started gaining a following of woman (models and non-models) who would message me telling me how much they loved following my work as it gave them courage to do things, they never thought they ever could. I would take the time to write them back and give them encouraging words to promote them. From there it grew, and I realized I had become a role model to so many other women. My platform is promoting woman of all sizes so they know they can be beautiful inside and out no matter their size, color, religion, creed etc. This is what keeps me going.

Our mutual friend, recording artist MLN, introduced us. How important has it been for you to surround yourself with people who keep you motivated as well as push you?

I feel it is always good to have people surrounding you who help encourage and lift you up. Even as a role model you can have days you feel not good enough or down on your spirits. Sometimes you need that extra push to keep going. I have been fortunate enough to know MLN since middle school growing up in a small town where everything revolves around football. So we made it a goal to show others you can do more than that. I have also been fortunate to have met so many amazing woman (and men) who have been successful in their lives. I know many people who have tried and failed at things and kept going. They are intelligent and wise and help give you lots of advice and encouragement. I would always recommend to anyone looking at trying to be successful in life to surround yourself with successful people who can mentor you and keep you on track.

Fear is one of the things that stops so many. How have you not allowed it to deter you?

Fear can definitely hinder a person from the smallest of things all the way up to life changing events. It all goes back to keeping yourself surrounded by successful people. Also having a good network of family, friends, and fans to help encourage you and keep pushing you to do better in life. In modeling or any business, hobby, etc there can be times that not everything will be perfect, but the show must go on as they say. I am a bit of a perfectionist so when things are not perfect it creates fear and anxiety in me. Someone once told me to sit back and ask yourself, “Did you do the best you can do?” If the answer is yes, then there is nothing more you can do other than know you tried and that is what matters.

Outside of your own success you have also been able to inspire others. How does that feel?

Yes, seeing as many women were starting to follow me, I realized I had become a role model and inspiration to many others. With my platform being “Promoting Women of all sizes.” I have had newer models reach out to me for advice as well as seasoned models who just need words of encouragement to keep going. I have had woman write to me saying that they saw my courage to get out there a s a plus size model and it encouraged them to try things they never thought they ever could such as sky diving, doing a boudoir shoot for a wedding, to just simple things. 

Knowing you are an inspiration and role model can be frazzling but rewarding. I do not see myself as a popular or a famous person but having others approach you for photos with them or advice is the best feeling.

What should our readers be on the look out for from you this year?

The Grammys was one of my big highlights of the year. I just shot the cover of Prolific Quarterly Magazine with their inspiring team. The magazine edition is set to be released the first week of March. I also have several other magazine shoots scheduled for the year and many more fashion shows. I post upcoming shows and events online so my fans can follow what is coming up.

Thanks again for the time. How can we stay connected with you?

My fans can follow me on Facebook at Danitza Snow Zar or Instagram Danitza_SnowZar. I do take the time to write back to people if they reach out to me.

Ashley D. Merritt: Proving with Hard Work and Dedication Anything Is Possible

by Cyrus Webb

She's an actress, dancer and model and a true lover of life.

When I first connected with Ashley D. Merritt* in 2016 through my friends at Grapevine PR, she had announced her being a part of what is now another hit for AMC Network, the show THE SON. Now as 2017 has unfolded she is not just celebrating that show but the film BROKEN as well.

Full of appreciation for where she is at this point in her career, Ashley doesn't take anything for granted. "It is always so hard to stop everything and say 'Oh my goodness, this really happened.' That's been the whole reaction for me," she told me during our conversation. "Everything has been so surreal to me," but she added that everything was also coming together in a way that was amazing.

Though many are just discovering that many talents that Ashley has, this is a journey that began at a young age for her. "It's been about keep moving forward, being better each and every day," she told me. "I feel going through this process this is something I've been working towards. I don't remember a time when I didn't want to be in this career. I feel really blessed to have this perspective."

Ashley told me that she has always been inspired by the creative process. "Anything that's different and unique that is what I've always been drawn to," she shared. For her whether it is acting, dancing or modeling she wants to give people a different perspective of the world you don't normally see.

When I asked where her appreciation for what she has been able to do comes from, she was quick to credit the sacrifices and encouragement of her parents. " I see their sacrifices, and that's what keeps me going."

Ashley realizes that the gifts and opportunities she has been afforded are bigger than her. "It's about leaving the world a better place," she says. She wants to encourage everyone to be themselves and to accept who they are and walk in their greatness.

Her message to us all? You can do anything! It's all about being comfortable in your own skin, learning to cherish that and wear it with pride.

Stay connected with Ashley on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ashleydmerritt and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ashley_d_merritt.

*  Photos provided by Ashley D. Merritt

Model/Singer LeVelle Williams: Pursuing His Passion While Standing In His Purpose

Model and singer LeVelle Zachary Williams has seen success in his life because he has made the decision that his goals and dreams are worth pursuing. As he reflected over what he has accomplished he told Conversations recently that "It's been a blessing," to reflect on all that he has been able to do and what is ahead of him. "I never would have dreamed or imagined being here," he added, admitting the difficulties he has faced---but he feels fortunate to still be standing.

LeVelle came to the attention of Conversations' Cyrus Webb through Instagram where he has been just not sharing snapshots of his work but inspirational messages as well. When asked why the motivational messages were so important for him to share, LeVelle says that encouraging people "is the fuel that ignites my fire. Life is about encouraging other people, picking other people up when they are down."

While he understands the importance of building his brand online and showcasing his work he feels as though platforms like Instagram and Facebook have a larger purpose. "I use social media to uplift and inspire," he told Webb. "I try to use it as a tool to encourage. Social media has the ability to connect with people all over the world. I try to keep that in mind and go off what my heart feels."

Being honest, open and growing into his own skin has had other benefits for LeVelle.  "It has opened so many doors," he explained, helping him to connect with so many people. "It has helped me to grow as a human being." He told Webb he reminds himself that you have to keep it real, no one is perfect. He says as long as he keeps striving to be his best, however, he knows he is on the right track.

Stay connected with LeVelle on Instagram at www.istagram.com/levelle_zachary.williams.

MODEL CITIZEN: Monique Navratil

Hailing from Sydney, Australia, 21 year old Monique Navratil is off to a great start in 2017 pursuing her modeling dreams---and nothing is going to stop her.

Conversations was able to catch up with the driven young woman and discuss her goals and dreams and what it's been like for her to do work that she loves. Monique even shares advice for others out there about the importance of pursuing your passion,.

What is it that keeps you inspired towards pursuing your goals and dreams?
My inspiration and motivation derives my creative passion and my want to make my family proud and to soak up all of the opportunities that my parents and grandparents fought so hard for me to have.

When did you first realize that model or acting was something you were interested in?
I began dancing in my early childhood, but as I slowly grew older my interest into acting and modelling soon begun to sprout. I began acting classes at the age of 10. However, I did not begin modelling until the age of 18/19.

What are some of the goals you have for yourself in 2017?
I want to set new standards for myself with my modelling career. I want to refine my skill set, re-freshen my portfolio and make more time for my modelling. The past few years I have been busy with my studies and charity work I was not able to make sufficient time for my modelling. 2017 is going to be the year that I make time and pursue every avenue that I can.

How as social media helped you in sharing your gifts and talents with the world?
Social media is a great outlet for sharing and following others journeys with their passions. It definitely keeps me motivated and allows me to aim higher than I ever thought I could.

What advice would have you have for anyone—regardless of their profession—when it comes to pursuing their own goals?
Never give up on your dreams. Not matter how unachievable they may seem. As a young girl I was quite shy and would have never dreamed of achieving all that I have so far. Nothing is unachievable. All you need to do is put a little bit of faith into yourself, tell yourself that you can do it and watch what the universe brings to you.

Stay connected with Monique at www.Instagram.com/moniquenavratil_ and www.facebook.com/themoniquenavratil.

Fitness Trainer/Model & Entrepreneur Mustang stops by #ConversationsLIVE

Fitness Trainer turned model and entrepreneur Mustang is living the life of his dreams---and he is just getting started.

"I have always been goal-driven," Mustang said to #ConversationsLIVE's Cyrus Webb. "When I set a goal I focus on it and go from there."

Being around leaders all of his life has helped him to lead, and that leadership is how he has been able to build on his brand as a model and entrepreneur. How has he not allowed fear to stop him? Mustang says it is his faith that keeps him going, and he says the sky's the limit to how far he can go.

You can stay connected with him on Instagram at www.instagram.com/its_mustang. He also has a calendar available for purchase at www.official-mustang.myshopify.com.

Listen to Mustang's interview on #ConversationsLIVE below.

Model/Actor/Fitness Trainer Derrick Foreman shares his path to success

Taking a true leap of faith Derrick Foreman left his home state and traveled to Los Angeles to pursue his goals and dreams---and it has paid off for him in a big way. In an exclusive first interview he talked with Conversations' Cyrus Webb about how he was able to identify what he wanted out of life, and the steps he has taken to get where he is and where he wants to go.

In a wide-ranging interview the two discussed when Derrick developed his comfort level in his own skin and how by embracing his imperfections he has been able to walk in confidence and his own personal power.  Along the way he has been able to garner fans from around the world thanks to social media and inspire people around him.

What has kept him from giving up when the challenges come? "That definitely came from my father and my mother," Derrick said during the interview. "They had faith in everything that they wanted to do. They worked for it, continued to push for it. I took that, and I looked at my life and I was like 'I am an entertainer. I can be an entertainer, so I'm going to be an entertainer. I'm going to be an actor. I'm going to be a model. I'm going to be a fitness trainer, and I just kept going.

"People talk down about what you want to do," he added, "and I didn't let that stop me."

Listen to the full interview below:

Model Victor Adeniran shares his creative path on #ConversationsLIVE

Photo Credit: Tom Bianchi

Host Cyrus Webb welcomes model Victor Adeniran to #ConversationsLIVE to discuss what it's been like to being his modeling career and see the response to it and his artwork.

"I enjoy modeling," Victor said during the interview. "I enjoy showcasing my product and my work." Realizing that he is the product, he added: "Being able to portray yourself as an art is fulfilling."

During the interview Victor also shared how he began modeling and what it's been like to use the internet to promote and share his work.

Stay connected with Victor on Instagram at www.instagram.com/victor.adeniran.

 Listen to the full interview below: 

Model and Actor Mike V discusses the journey with Conversations

Social media has been a great place for individuals to connect with their fans and to share their work. Host Cyrus Webb found out about model and actor Michael Vinson aka Model Mike V thanks to Instagram and invited him to be a guest on #ConversationsLIVE.

The two discussed what it's been like to be on the journey to seeing his dreams become a reality, how the support has motivated him and allowed him to show others what's possible and what you can expect for him this year.

"Seeing the response is amazing," Mike said during the interview, "but I think more so going through the journey, understanding the process. Going from my first ever photo shoot to where I am now is amazing to see what you can do."

Though he enjoys seeing the finished product, Mike realizes that it's more than just what people see. "At the end of the day your brand is your name," he said. "If I don't market that then it's going to be like any other brand. It's a business at the end of the day."

Stay connected with Michael on his website at www.modelmikev.com.  Listen to the entire conversation below:

Model Donavon Dalton: Challenging Himself Towards His Own Greatness

As the year is winding down, individuals like model Donavon Dalton are not just reflecting on what they have done but already looking ahead.

"It's been great," he told host Cyrus Webb on #ConversationsLIVE about the journey to doing what he loves as a model. "It's been more than I could have expected. I've received so much love. It's been an awesome experience so far."

For Dalton it's more than just about taking a good picture. "To me modeling is basically a form of art," he told Webb. "It's a form of expression. Through modeling I am able to speak out on a lot of things that I've been through and are going on in world."

He credits his family and support system for keeping him motivated, but he also says that he is his biggest critic, pushing himself with every project. "With every shoot, every different show I'm constantly learning different things,"he says.

Follow Donavon on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/iamthe_oneking. Listen to the entire interview below.

Photo credit: Dannielle Reeh

PROFILE: Model/Actress/Recording Artist Arita stops by #ConversationsLIVE

Host Cyrus Webb welcomes model/actress/recording artist Arita to #ConversationsLIVE to discuss her journey to doing what she loves and what it's been like to see the response from around the world.

She also helps to introduce her single SUGAR FOR MY HONEY and shares a bit of what's to come in the New Year. Stay connected with Arita at http://www.aritaworldwide.com.

Listen to the full interview below:

MODEL CITIZEN: Introducing TraVion Blair

by Cyrus Webb

One of the things Conversations has tried to remind readers and listeners of our platforms of is that with faith nothing is impossible. No matter where you are from or what others might say, there is nothing you can't do or achieve if you are willing to do the work.

On December 31, 2015 Mississippi native TraVion Blair wrote on his Facebook page: "God has major plans in my future." Not long afterwards the 17 year old was walking in his first fashion show, doing photoshoots and on his way to seeing his goal of being a model and actor come true.

In an exclusive interview he talked with Conversations about the journey and what it's been like to remind others of what is possible.

"I like to motivate people to follow their dreams" TraVion told me. "This is a dream of mine.  Just to do it it makes me happy."

Talking about his walking in his first fashion show he says he was nervous at first but became more relaxed and it ended up being one of this greatest feelings and experiences of his life.

Though he was initially interested in pursuing acting first, TraVion says his mom told him that modeling might be the way to get his foot in the door. "I went to a modeling show and realized I could do this," he says. "One of my friends told me 'That that could be you'. It motivated me to pursue my career in modeling and acting."

Never to be seen as the shy one, TraVion says this is more than about him. "I want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to follow their dreams and make the world a better place."

To do anything towards your goal and dreams takes courage. I asked him how he has not allowed fear to stop him. "Fear is something that shows weakness," he told me, "and for me to show weakness is to show that God is not in control. I want to show everyone that God is in control of my life."

His advice for others? "Never give up on your dreams. Keep following your dreams, follow your heart."

Stay connected with TraVion on Facebook at www.facebook.com/travionblair12.

*Photo by Photoz by Paul Photography