"REJECTION! The constant, "No!" almost caused me to quit on my dream of becoming a professional model. It took me getting in my 30's before an agency took me seriously. Since then, my greatest accomplishment was walking during New York Fashion Week." - Khira Young
Interview by Nikel Kiar, Contributor
Khira Young is an Editorial, Commercial Print, and Runway Model in NC. She was originally born and raised in Baltimore, MD where she took up an interest in modeling at the age of 17. After graduating from high school, she came to North Carolina to attend North Carolina Wesleyan College. While there, Khira participated in several clubs on campus, including the modeling club called, "Visions of Beauty". Since then, she continued to pursue her dream of modeling and went on to participate in multiple modeling events. In September of 2017, she signed with A-List Models and Talent and went on to book several shoots and shows. She's worked with designers such as: Egypt Ufele of Chubiline, Shameitria Moten of Jae Noel, Sonique Stephens, Earl Bannister, Leon Couture, Saks off 5th, Jenks Fashionique, and Charming Charlie’s. She has walked for Southern Women's Showcase, The She Expo, The Platinum Experience, Mama Afrika festival, Tim Johnson Productions "BBU Awards" in 2018 and 2019, Durham Fashion Week, and was selected to walk for Hitechmoda during September's 2019 NYFW. Those designers include Yo Soy Mia, Studio Ivey, Nannette Designs and Dominion Couture. She wants everyone to reach their God-given potential and live as great examples for others to follow. No matter your size, shape, or color, Khira's favorite saying is, "You Are Model Material"!
Life in the overflow Magazine caught up with Khira and sat down for an interview, it was such a pleasure, and this is some of what she had to say.
Tell us about yourself and how did you start modeling?
Khira Young: I grew up in Baltimore, MD and started modeling at 17. My first runway show was at my high school. Since then, the runway became my passion. North Carolina became my residence after college and from there, I continued to pursue modeling.
What and who inspired you to get into fashion?
Khira Young: I didn't have one person. Since around 12-14, I loved watching this show on E! called, ModelTv. It highlighted top models of that time. I also loved to watch Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and Gisele and wanted to become a model ever since.
What has been your biggest challenge that you overcame and what has been your biggest accomplishment?
Khira Young: REJECTION! The constant, "No!" almost caused me to quit on my dream of becoming a professional model. It took me getting in my 30's before an agency took me seriously. Since then, my greatest accomplishment was walking during New York Fashion Week.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into fashion and modeling?
Khira Young: Do your research and be realistic with the category you're attempting to fit into. Once you get an idea where you fit, get a loved one to take some clean cell phone pictures against a plain background. These are your digital images. You should have little to no makeup with fitted clothing (all black). You should also take your measurements: height, bust, waist, hips, shoe size, dress size, shirt and shirt. These need to be accurate. When you're applying for agencies, follow their requirements and apply. If they like you, you'll be contacted for an interview. If you're not selected, don't give up. Keep trying! There is an agency that's the right fit for you.
Where can we locate you on social media and do you have anything coming up that we should look out for?
Khira Young: I'm on Facebook as Khira Young and Instagram, @khiradevon (personal) @khira_young (model page). My social media has the latest updates on shows and events that you can find me in.
Thank you so much for interviewing with us today and giving our readers an inside look of who you are, always a pleasure talking to you.
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