Destiny Owusu Wants You to Keep Your Melanin on Fleek
Hard work truly does pay off — just ask Destiny Owusu.
She’s a self-starting model who’s killing it on the modeling scene. From magazines to runaways, Destiny is ready to tackle down anything and everything that comes her way.
How did you get yourself on the modeling scene?
I got myself in the modeling scene from a friend of mine pushing me to do a shoot with him. After we posted the images on social media, they went viral and that was the start of my modeling career.
What do you feel is the toughest part about being a model of color?
The toughest part about being a model of color is not getting the full respect that we deserve. We come across so many problems within the industry which I think isn’t fair. For example: being the “token black girl” in fashion shows, ad campaigns, magazines and also makeup artists not having the proper shades for us during shows/shoots. It’s very frustrating to deal with.
In what way would you revolutionize fashion?
If I were to revolutionize fashion, I would demand diversity in not just agencies but within the staff as well. It always starts with the designers, casting directors, development bookers and etc. If we want to see diversity in the industry we must start within the system. That’s how we will see change.
What’s your personal motto to get you through the hard times in your line of work?
My personal motto to get me through hard times is: Never focus on someone else’s success. Continue to work, be persistent, and doors will open right before your eyes.
What is #IsyourMelaninOnFleek all about? What was your goal when you started that hashtag?
#IsYourMelaninOnFleek is a hashtag inspiring women of color to love the skin they’re in. My goal to start this hashtag was to influence women of color but more importantly, inspire dark skin women to be confident in the skin they’re in and to embrace it.
Dark skin women go through a hard time when it comes to being confident in their skin, especially in this society. Being one, I fully understand what they go through because I went through it as well. This was a way to show them to love themselves.
Who are some of your inspirations and/or idols?
Some of my inspirations are models Nykhor, Alex Wek, And Jordun Love. As for idols, I don’t idolize anyone, my idol would be myself. I inspire and surprise myself with what I accomplish every day.
When did you realize that you found the love of your life: modeling?
I realized I loved modeling when I started to inspire young women all over the world. To be an inspiration to a stranger is the best feeling in the world.
What are some upcoming projects that you are working on?
I have a few projects in the works that I can’t really speak on but, one project/goal I’m working on is getting signed to an agency by my birthday (February 19). With my hard work and God’s grace, I hope it happens soon.
Photography: Dominik Jenkins
Stylist: Dashauna Gibson
