We had the good fortune of connecting with Mersadez Hemphill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mersadez, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
For me, it’s the people. I’ve been really lucky to work with so many talented and dedicated people over the years, and I think that’s helped me succeed as much as anything else. It’s like when you’re working on a project, and it’s going great until one day you realize that no matter how good your idea is, or how much work you put in on it if you don’t have someone to collaborate with then it’s just not going to be worth anything.

I think that applies to everything—not just projects but also relationships and even life itself. If we’re all working together towards something bigger than ourselves, then we can all be successful together!

The most important factor behind my success is the fact that I’m not afraid to take risks.

I’ve learned that sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith and see what happens.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I discovered recently my love for art. I feel that instead of putting myself in a box. I can express myself through being creative and modeling was one of the many ways I have been able to do just that. My love for modeling has grown past being in front of the camera. I am now assisting models on set and having a hand in the creative process. It’s something I have always wanted to do. Watching my vision come to life is the most rewarding feeling. It almost feels like the moment I stepped out on the runway for the first time. I have worked day in and day out making sacrifices and taking the risk to get where I am today. It definitely wasn’t a walk in the park. I had to relocate to another state to make my dreams happen. Not to mention I had to move with little to no money. My part-time hosting position wasn’t making the cut and It honestly motivated me to push so much harder at making it in the industry as a professional model. I built connections with like-minded people and I used my resources to figure out a game plan. It took time but it was well worth it. I have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and I have crossed off a lifetime goal of gracing Vogue magazine. I never knew I would be in a position to teach other models how to do what I’m so passionate about. But here I am years later mentoring aspiring models on how to navigate the industry. I have learned the most valuable lesson is to never give up keep pushing forward and never accept no because one day will be a yes. All it takes is one, yes and it will change your life forever. I want the world to know that your dreams matter. So never stop dreaming.

 

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If one of my best friends were visiting LA Monday I would take them to Malibu beach and we would eat at Moonshadows restaurant. They have the most beautiful ocean view plus the food is delicious. Next, I would take her to Melrose for a day of shopping we love to shop. After a few hours of shopping and walking along Melrose Avenue we would hit the Highlight room for drinks and good vibes. To top off the night I would take her to an exclusive event so she can mingle with a few people and hopefully make a couple of connections while she visits. Tuesday we would go to Griffith park for a hike early morning and grab breakfast at Eggslut. Next, we would check out Downtown Santee Alley for another day of shopping. After shopping, I would take her to Venice beach for lunch at Great White for food and drinks. At this point, I’m sure we are a bit tired so we would go back to my place and watch movies for the rest of the night. Wednesday we walk Hollywood Blvd so I can show her all the funny acts and the famous walk of fame. Next, we go to Lantica Pizzeria for some authentic Italian pizza. Thursday is a chill day maybe hang out on the beach in Santa Monica and check out the pier. Friday I’m sure we are hitting a party and we won’t stop partying till Sunday lol.

 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out the Columbus Editorial Society. When I first started my modeling journey I joined a group of creatives that consisted of models, photographers, makeup artists, videographers, stylists, and many more awesome talented individuals. Every month we would meet up and create amazing work together. I took part in many photoshoot sessions they hosted at different places around my hometown Columbus Ohio. I found my love for modeling and they truly helped me see the potential in my work. I would also like to give a shout-out to my friends and family they have always been supportive of my modeling career and I thank them for that because it hasn’t always been easy. I am grateful for anyone I have collaborated with in my career. I would name them but it’s so many it wouldn’t be fair to only name a few. But overall I would like to recognize god above all. He has been the driving force behind everything I do.

Website: www.modelglowup.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modelmersadez

Youtube: Model Mersadez

Image Credits
@Shotbyseung

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.