NY Style Magazine (NYSM): What has your experience been like working with professional photographers?
Jahlil Donald (JD): Working with professional photographers has been essential in shaping my career. They bring expertise in lighting, composition, and direction, which elevates my portfolio to industry standards. Collaborating with photographers helps me discover my potential and capture images that truly reflect my best self.
NYSM: Do you have any plans to launch a product line?
JD: Not yet, but I’m working on many concepts. When the time is right, I want to fully develop a product line that resonates with my brand.
NYSM: What platform do you use most to promote your career—Snapchat, TikTok, or Instagram?
JD: Instagram is my go-to, and you can find me at @TheJahlildonald.
NYSM: If you were given $10,000 to invest in your brand, how would you use it?
JD: If I had $10,000, I would strategically invest it across key areas of my brand. I’d allocate funds to enhance my portfolio and digital presence, skill development, networking and public relations, social media marketing, and of course, wardrobe and styling. Investing in these areas would build a solid foundation for my modeling career, giving me the tools and visibility to attract top opportunities and fuel my growth.
NYSM: Growing up, who did you idolize?
JD: I idolized Zendaya. Her versatility as an actress, model, and fashion icon really inspired me. She’s always pushing boundaries and staying true to herself, which is something I admire. She’s the kind of role model I aspire to be—successful, grounded, and using her platform to inspire others.
NYSM: Have you made any mistakes in your career that turned into valuable learning experiences?
JD: One mistake I made was rushing into things to prove others wrong. I invested time and money impulsively without a solid plan, which led to wasted resources. But that taught me the importance of patience and having a clear vision. Now, I make more thoughtful decisions that align with my goals.
NYSM: Are you aiming to stay independent or sign with an agency?
JD: I’m definitely looking to sign with an agency. Having professional guidance and broader opportunities would help me enhance my craft and achieve my goals faster.
NYSM: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a new model starting their career?
JD: Stay authentic and true to yourself. Find your passion within modeling and environments that allow you to harness your skills. Embrace what makes you unique and let that shape your brand. Authenticity will not only resonate with your audience but also attract the right opportunities. Focus on your strengths, stay committed to your vision, and everything else will fall into place.
NYSM: Can you share a memorable experience from your journey so far?
JD: When I first started pursuing my passion for the arts, I faced a lot of negativity. People around me insisted it wasn’t the right path and urged me to do something “better” with my life. That could have discouraged me, but instead, it fueled my determination. I went all in on modeling and self-expression, and despite the challenges, I discovered my true passion. Now, I want to inspire others to follow their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
NYSM: What would success in the modeling industry look like for you?
JD: Success for me means living this as a sustainable career—getting consistent work, collaborating with top brands, and being part of high-profile projects. But beyond personal achievement, it’s about inspiring others, especially aspiring models and creatives. I want to share my journey and experiences to help others navigate the industry and pursue their dreams without fear.
NYSM: What brand do you fantasize about modeling for?
JD: Gucci, without a doubt. Their bold, avant-garde designs really speak to me. Working with such a prestigious brand would allow me to showcase my versatility as a model and be part of something innovative in the fashion industry.
NYSM: Besides social media, what app do you find most useful for your career?
JD: Notion is a game-changer for me. It helps me stay organized, manage tasks, and plan projects, whether it’s related to modeling or content creation. I also love MasterClass for honing skills like acting and fashion design.
NYSM: Are you interested in pursuing careers outside of modeling?
JD: Absolutely. I’m passionate about acting, music, content creation, and even dance, which complements my modeling. I also aspire to start my own clothing line one day. Gaming is another hobby I’m considering exploring further. I want to create a multifaceted career that reflects my creativity and diverse interests.
NYSM: How do you prefer to engage with your audience?
JD: My favorite way to engage with my audience is through storytelling. I love sharing authentic experiences, whether it’s behind-the-scenes moments from shoots or simply expressing my genuine passion. Connecting on a deeper level really resonates with people.
This fresh and exciting mix of questions with Jahlil Donald reflects his journey, mindset, and what drives him as he aims to make an impact, not just in the modeling industry, but across multiple creative fields. Keep an eye on Jahlil as he continues to innovate and inspire through his work.
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