My NYFW Experience
When I first got the call to model for New York Fashion Week (NYFW), I didn’t realize how transformative the experience would be. The excitement of stepping into one of fashion's biggest events with my natural hair, styled for the natural hair brand Jamaican Mango & Lime, was something I had been manifesting for years. Little did I know, this would be a full-circle moment that celebrated my Caribbean heritage and natural beauty in a way that felt deeply personal.
Stepping into the Spotlight
The energy backstage at NYFW was electric. We were at 48 Lounge, a vibrant venue that had been transformed into a Caribbean paradise, filled with bright floral arrangements, colorful backdrops, and tropical drinks that reflected the island vibes of the event. It was as if the space had been designed just for me. The entire atmosphere was buzzing with the spirit of my Guyanese culture, and I couldn’t help but feel like this moment was divinely orchestrated.
As I prepared for the runway, I couldn’t stop smiling. My hair, adorned in cowrie shells, was styled with pride, paying homage to my natural roots and the tradition of women in Western Africa who have used cowries as symbols of wealth, prosperity, and protection. The look was regal, powerful, and uniquely mine.
The Power of Natural Hair Representation
Modeling for Jamaican Mango & Lime was more than just wearing a brand; it was about representing Black women who proudly wear their natural hair. I’ve been on a journey with my Sisterlocks, and seeing them styled with such care and intention gave me an overwhelming sense of pride. This was a far cry from earlier in my modeling career, where my natural hair wasn't always celebrated, and my skin tone wasn’t always accommodated.
This time, everything felt right. My skin glowed under the lights, and my natural beauty was fully embraced. The makeup artist even commented, "Wow, your skin is gorgeous," which reaffirmed how far the beauty industry has come. I was no longer forcing myself to fit into a mold that wasn’t made for me; instead, I was fully stepping into my power.
A Dream Dress Come True
Let’s talk about the dress. Designed by Bang, the pink sequined gown fit me like a dream. My measurements were taken precisely, and every detail felt perfect. The back of the dress was open – a look I had been manifesting for two years. Pink, my favorite color, shimmered as I walked, giving me a sense of royalty and elegance. It was as if the designer knew exactly what I had envisioned for this moment.
As I strutted down the runway, it wasn’t just about fashion. It was a statement of self-love, cultural pride, and owning the beauty that comes with being my authentic self.
Celebrating Caribbean Heritage
The most fulfilling part of this experience was how it celebrated my Caribbean roots. How often do we get the chance to step into spaces like New York Fashion Week and have our culture fully embraced? The event was curated with the perfect blend of fashion and cultural pride. From the music to the décor, everything aligned with who I am, allowing me to fully step into my identity as a proud Caribbean woman.
Manifesting Beauty, Wellness, and Power
This moment on the NYFW runway wasn’t just about modeling. It was a reflection of the journey I’ve been on to fully embrace my natural beauty, wellness, and inner power. As I continue my mission to help women and moms create passive income and live lives of ease, this experience reminded me of the importance of authenticity. When you align with your true self and manifest your dreams, the world makes room for you to bloom in full color.
My time at NYFW with Jamaican Mango & Lime was a testament to the fact that beauty goes beyond aesthetics – it’s about self-expression, confidence, and cultural pride. I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent not just myself but Black women everywhere who are stepping into their power.
Here’s to manifesting more dreams and celebrating our beauty on every stage!
Tips by tai
One powerful tip for mastering your own model walk is to lead with your hips and let your strides be deliberate and strong. Walk as if the entire pathway belongs to you—this is not just about walking; it’s about owning your space. Taking up space when you walk is a reflection of your confidence and femininity. It tells the world that you are unapologetic in your presence, grounded in your power, and embracing your beauty. Walking like this goes beyond modeling; it's a statement that you deserve to be seen, heard, and valued.
Always find a way to stand out and build genuine connections in new spaces—whether it's with fellow models, stylists, or coordinators. Networking isn't just about collecting contacts, it’s about creating lasting impressions and relationships. Be memorable by being authentic, showing gratitude, and following up. You never know where your next opportunity will come from, and those connections may be the key to your next breakthrough!
To attract beautiful experiences like I did, it's essential to create a life that’s fully aligned with your values. When you live authentically—embracing who you are at your core and staying true to what matters most—you naturally draw in experiences that reflect that inner truth. Authenticity is magnetic; it invites opportunities, relationships, and moments that feel aligned with your purpose. By honoring your values, you’ll find that life flows with more ease, and the experiences you attract will be fulfilling, healing, and nourishing to the soul. The key is to live in a way that feels good to you, and the universe will respond in kind, bringing beauty and abundance your way.
#NYFW #JamaicanMangoAndLime #NaturalHair #CaribbeanBeauty #RunwayQueen #Sisterlocks
