THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF JAZZMIN WILLIAMS
NEW YORK'S RESILIENT PLUS-SIZED MODEL, COACH, AND CONFIDENCE BUILDER
Meet Jazzmin Williams, a New York native whose life is a captivating roller coaster, marked by triumphs and trials. A multifaceted individual, Jazzmin is not only a model but also a model coach and a confidence builder. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion.
From a young age, Jazzmin found joy in capturing moments through photography, unaware of the modeling world. The revelation came when she watched America's Top Model, yet as a plus-sized girl, she initially doubted her potential in the industry. Despite exploring other avenues like designing, the allure of modeling persisted. In 2016, she took a leap of faith and embarked on her modeling journey, despite the limited information available for plus-sized models.
Undeterred, Jazzmin began sharing her experiences on YouTube, offering valuable tips for aspiring plus-sized models. However, her personal life took a challenging turn with a toxic relationship in the same year. Despite the hidden trauma, she pressed on, pushing through pain to pursue her passion.
In 2017, her potential was recognized by an agent who saw her journey and the information she shared. This opportunity led Jazzmin to become an in-house modeling coach, creating her curriculum and coaching agency models from 2018. As she matured mentally, thoughts of business ownership began to surface, although fear and lack of knowledge initially held her back.
After years of internal struggle, Jazzmin embraced her calling and officially established her business in January 2022. Ironically, while building others' confidence, she battled with her own self-doubt, perfectionism, and people-pleasing tendencies. The industry brought both beautiful experiences and betrayals, with Jazzmin facing a "crabs in a barrel" mentality in her New York community.
In 2023, guided by faith, Jazzmin made a bold move to Texas, seeking a new beginning. However, the transition has been challenging financially, with job struggles and betrayals testing her resilience. Despite setbacks, Jazzmin sees every experience as a molding process, shaping her into a God-fearing, loving, caring, confident, influential, and resilient woman.
Her journey, marked by determination, has fueled her fiery pursuit of purpose and passion. Jazzmin is unwavering in her commitment to be the person God created her to be — someone who helps others discover their purpose and demonstrates that love conquers all. Her story is an inspiring testament to overcoming obstacles and staying true to one's calling.
A CHAT WITH JAZZMIN
QSM: Hey Jazzmin, Thank you for your time. Tyra Banks inspired you to step into the world of modeling, but did you ever have a "Tyra moment" where you felt like you truly owned the runway, and what was that experience like for you as a plus-sized model?
Jazz: Yes, I feel like every time I’m on the runway I have a “Tyra moment” to be honest. I love owning the runway and giving the audience a show to remember! I honestly don’t look at myself as a plus model but more of a top model because I’m able to do both high fashion and commercial modeling.
QSM: Your journey involves overcoming a toxic relationship while pursuing your passion. How did you navigate the challenges of that period and maintain focus on your modeling aspirations?
Jazz: Being in a toxic relationship and pursuing my passion was not easy. But because I loved my passion so much, I didn’t let anyone stop me in my pursuit. There were times that he made my experiences at fashion shows horrible due to his jealousy. But I’m so professional no one actually knew what was going on. I was able to mask my emotions and keep the toxicity behind closed doors.
QSM: Moving beyond modeling, you transitioned into a role as a model coach. Can you elaborate on the factors that led to this shift and the development of your coaching curriculum?
Jazz: When I started modeling, I decided to document my journey on YouTube. At the time I noticed there wasn’t much education on how to be a plus size model. So, I would share my experience and give out tips and tricks on how to navigate in the industry. After a year of doing that, the agency that I was a part of asked me to be the in-house model coach. They loved how I was inspiring others through my YouTube. I took on the role and built my curriculum on my experience and knowledge of the industry.
QSM: Let's talk about the "aha" moment when you decided to start your own business. Was there a particular instance where you said, "Screw it, I'm doing this!" and how did that play out? Any unexpected hiccups or hilariously chaotic moments? (talk more about your business here)
Jazz: My “aha” moment happened every time I was done coaching a model. Seeing their growth and success in the industry showed me that I was good at coaching too. The response I would get from the models ensured me. Their confidence was being built to a level that to this day they thank me for. Helping models become self-aware of their body and facial expressions/ seeing the results of that really inspired me. I couldn’t deny the desire to really take it on and LLC my business. I give a solid foundation model need for a successful career.
There were a few hiccups along the way. From not understanding what and how to truly run a business, to feeling like my modeling career was being put on the back burner. I struggled a lot mentally with these things. There were times that the lack of knowledge of being a business owner crippled me making me feel inadequate to continue. But once I started to practice what I was preaching all of that went away.
QSM: Who are your clients?
Jazz: I honestly have a wide variety of clients. The aspiring model who has a passion for modeling. The experience model who wants to broaden their reach. The designer who wants to put on a fashion show. The person who wants to get a boost in their confidence. The seasoned who always wanted to try modeling but never got the chance to. The youngin who has a desire to know more about the industry. The one who wants to break industry standards and show that anyone can model no matter their appearance. Blu3 Model coaching is for everyone! We are digging out our own path in this industry and embracing inclusivity.
QSM: Despite empowering others, you mentioned grappling with self-confidence, people-pleasing, and perfectionism. How did these challenges impact your journey, and what strategies did you employ to overcome them?
Jazz: It’s funny how it’s usually the very thing that you struggle with is the thing that your placed to help others with. These challenges had a huge impact on my mental health. I don’t know why I was able to help others so easily and effectively but completely forget about myself. But when I had a session with a client, I would do the assignments with them. Giving more of a comfortable environment for them also helped me. I had to realize that I need to practice what I was preaching to help me overcome these challenges. I also grew closer to the Lord who helped me see myself the way He sees me, the way He created me. Through prayer, reading his word, and fasting I learned more about my purpose and how it was bigger than a challenge that I face.
QSM: Relocating to Texas in 2023 was a significant decision. What prompted this move, and how did it impact your career and personal life? Can you share some of the challenges and lessons you've encountered since moving?
Jazz: 2020 was a shifting year for most people. For me it made me realize that I was comfortable in Ny. God told me a long time ago that I would be traveling with my business, and he told me my first stop was Texas. He told me to grow my business out here. 2023 was a year of getting to know me outside of my family, friends, and comfort zones. I learned how to truly trust in the Lord with all my heart. I learned that I’m stronger than I perceive myself to be. When I first moved to Texas, I actually moved into a roach infested apartment. In the midst of getting out of that situation, I ended up in the hospital for about three days. It’s been a tough journey. Looking for a steady job out here. But threw it all. God has been sustaining me. I’ve been doing a lot of networking and building relationships with people in the industry out here. All in all, this move has grown me and my perspective on life.
QSM: What's the most Texas thing that happened to you since you moved, and did it involve cowboy boots, barbecue, or something entirely unexpected?
Jazz: honestly, the most Texas thing that happened to me and that continues to happen to me is being pointed out that I’m not from here. The emphasis on my New York accent has been quite comical. I honestly never realized how thick my New York accent was until I moved out here. I’m still pretty new here so there’s still lots to explore and learn about Texas. Eventually, I will get my cowboy boots and barbecue experience.
QSM: Dealing with crabs in a barrel mentality can be tough, but we've all had those "What am I even doing here?" moments. You mentioned that you've faced betrayal and exploitation. How did you navigate these setbacks, and what advice do you have for others dealing with similar challenges in the modeling industry?
Jazz: When, dealing with betrayal and exploitation, I continued to be myself. I remained professional, loving, caring, and kind. I made sure that no matter what people did to me it wouldn’t affect how I treated other people. Truly, knowing that what is for me will be for me no matter what. If I had to give anyone advice on how to navigate these setbacks, I would say continue to do you and allow the work to speak for itself.
QSM: For anyone who might be interested in you and your services, please provide your social media info and website.
Jazz: Blu3 Model Coaching LLC is a full-service empowerment company specializing in building confidence, teaching industry techniques, and evolving models to their full potential. Our focus is to teach people how to become self-aware in the modeling and fashion industry while building confidence towards living out their purpose. We use three main steps to evolve our clients. First, we enlighten, we take the time to tap into who you are, learn yourself, & enlighten yourself about who you are. Next, we elevate; we move out of old habits that don’t serve the enlightened you & elevate into who you are intended to be. Finally, we emerge: embracing who you are and allowing the blessings to fall into place. We provide a safe and vulnerable space that develops models and individuals who are authentic and accountable. Helping them become strong enough to accept what may be perceived as negative about themselves and confident in how to highlight their positive attributes. Blu3 Model Coaching is where you are Beautifully Loved, & Uniquely 3volving!
For more info and to set up your session you can visit us at www.Blu3ModelCoachingLLC.com or check us out on Instagram @Blu3ModelCoachingllc and on YouTube Blu3 Model Coaching
Photo credits:
Model: Jazzmin Williams
Photographer: @lionelwhytephotography
Pose Coach: @blu3modelcoachingllc
