Zsamiyah Mayes Has Used Modeling as a Path toward Creativity and Self-Discovery
Zsamiyah Mayes is a model and actress represented by iCatch Management. Along with Shuburah Goyal, the founder of that agency, she will be attending IMTA 2022, an international convention for models, actors, dancers, singers, and songwriters from around the world hosted by the International Modeling & Talent Association.
Zsamiyah is currently majoring in Finance at Eastern Michigan University. Her goals for the rest of this year consist of meeting other models, agents, photographers, and many others in the fashion industry. She looks forward to taking her career in modeling and acting to the next level.
Photographer: Kell Myrick with Eyegauge Media LLC.
What made you decide to become a model?
I was first introduced to acting. While exploring that, everyone encouraged me to model as well. Eventually, I gave modeling a shot and I really enjoyed it. I loved the excitement you feel at events and the other models’ energy. It also became a way for me to express myself.
Even when I’m not booked, I do mock photoshoots throughout the house or make my brother follow me around the downtown area with my camera, trying to play around with different shots. There’s so much room to create in modeling. I love the journey of learning about my body and certain angles, and how to create by incorporating that in order to tell a story and convey a certain emotion.
Who is your role model?
My role model, when it comes to modeling, is the beautiful Tyra Banks. I've watched America’s Next Top Model many times and I love this platform Tyra gave other aspiring models. She helped them grow as models to achieve their dreams. I am really drawn to Tyra and love her story of how she was introduced to modeling as a young girl. Ever since then, Tyra has shown an incredible work ethic.
Something I also find very inspiring is that Tyra didn’t just reach success in modeling and stop there. She continued to break down walls and reach new heights of success. Years and years ago, Tyra was already encouraging models of all sizes and continues to encourage everyone to see and acknowledge what is special within themselves.
What modeling experience do you have?
I have some experience in runway and print. I look forward to continuing my journey and doing more runways and photoshoots. I look forward to growing in my modeling and acting career, and hopefully working with the best someday.
What do you enjoy most about modeling?
Being able to experience different places and meeting new people. You’re really exposed to so many different things, people, and cultures in the fashion industry and with modeling. I also really love the constant opportunity to be different and explore a different side of myself.
What are some of your biggest modeling accomplishments?
Today my biggest modeling accomplishment is truly what I’ve learned from this activity. I've done a couple of fashion shows and photoshoots, and each time has taught me not to be afraid to step outside the box and be different. For a while, I was stuck in this phase where I feared the judgment of others. Modeling really helped me get out of that bad habit.
I’m very happy when I model and love the way modeling makes me feel about myself. I had to take a moment and explain to myself that what other people think of me isn’t any of my business. Yes, it's always good to be able to take constructive criticism, but I shouldn’t allow the fear of the bad things people might think when I do something to hold me back. Instead, I can use constructive criticism to better my craft. In a way, modeling has broken me out of my shell and exposed me to a different version of myself that I’d been very eager to see.
Who is your favorite designer and why?
Donatella Versace is my favorite. I’m obsessed with every collection and line she releases. I not only love the clothes, but also the accessories and the color combinations. I can genuinely see myself in anything Donatella had created, feeling truly confident and fierce in it. Along with her great designs, Donatella herself seems to be a sweet and genuine person at heart.
Why should an agency hire you?
I have an irresistible energy. I am always positive and keep a smile on my face. I think I have a really good energy and people have also told me so. I’m easily teachable and take direction very well. I know how to relax and have fun, as well as when to flip that switch and be focused and serious and get to work. Another good quality that I think agencies would favor is the fact that I have impeccable relational versatility, which is the ability to alter the way you communicate to meet the needs of others. I believe this is a great trait to have when meeting new people and creating professional relationships with others in the industry.
How do you prepare for a photo shoot?
I like to do a mock photoshoot in my room, with my backdrop and camera setup, just so I can be a bit more comfortable and not as tense when the actual shoot comes. Something that’s really important for me when I have a photoshoot is making sure I get a good night’s sleep the night before. Then, when I first wake up, I like to hydrate, brush my teeth, and do a brief yoga routine to loosen up and wake up. Then I journal and pray before going down to have a light breakfast. I’ll then go to take care of my hygiene, brush my teeth, shower, and wash my face. I also love doing face masks. Before I head out, I make sure I have my model bag and a light snack with water in case I get a little hungry or thirsty while I’m there.
What is your message to our Heart Of Hollywood Magazine readers?
Thank you all for reading this issue of Heart of Hollywood Magazine. Remember, whatever it is that you want in life, don’t be afraid to truly go after it. Don’t let anyone knock you off your path or discourage you due to how long your journey is taking. Not everyone has the same destination as you. Everything you want in life is already yours; you simply have to go get it.
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