Meet Deja Peters | Model

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

Hi Deja, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is the cost of opportunity; risk can even be opportunity in disguise. And the best fruits are found at the end of the branch. When we’re faced with a choice, sometimes we become hesitant, and allow our brains to come up with reasons why it may not work… but what if it does? Removing those blockages are key to a successful brand.

Sometimes risk looks like taking on another trade job, or not taking no for an answer. But all of that hard work, ends up paying off in the end. And you will always see the fruit of your labor when you are dedicated, humble, and remain disciplined.

When it comes to modeling, I’ve taken plenty of risks in my career. Risks like attending bootcamps, workshops, doing more trade jobs than I wanted to… but out of all of those, they’ve become opportunities for me to make more connections, and elevate me higher into my passion. It’s been such a long journey, and I’m grateful for every moment of it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I like to call myself a creative, I enjoy modeling, acting, painting, singing, etc. I’m probably the most excited for whats to come! Not spilling the beans, just yet. But I have some exciting news that will change the whole trajectory of my career!

I got where I am today, by staying dedicated. It’s been a journey to say the least. I started off by taking photos with local photographers, doing A LOT of trade work. I didn’t start charging until I was 100% confident in my modeling skills, and about a year into my career. After that, I started posting them on social media; all of my OG followers know where I started!

It wasn’t easy, and still remains that way, but its possible. Constantly being over-sexualized, discriminated against, hearing more no’s than yes’; it can get to you. And for a moment it did, I even considered quitting. But I’ve learned that if I have a goal for myself, the only way to achieve it, is to see it through. I struggled with my own motivation at times, and I’m the first person to point out my own flaws; but I can truthfully say I saw it through. Something that helped me overcome my challenges was learning myself, and how my brain works, learning about trauma, and getting therapy. I’ve learned the importance of self-care, self love, and meditation.

I would want the world to know that I am no better than anyone else, nor on a pedestal. As cliche as it sounds, we’re all in it together. Nobody knows what they’re actually doing, just live your life.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First, lets go eat! Breakfast at Cafe M; mimosas, potato scrambler, and stuffed french toast. After that, we’re going to the beach, Ocean Beach in SF, stay for a bonfire or head to Lake Merritt. Then, we’re going to Starline or Hello Stranger, and get shwarmas across the street from Somar to end the night.

In the bay, I have to say, we have some great food. And the best place to socialize is the lake; you’ll see an array of people, all over, just truly enjoying themselves. Some of the best spots to hit are in West Oakland.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shoutout my mentors. My grandparents, parents, siblings, cousins, godparents, the list goes on. Everyone in my life has given me the opportunity to grow and has taught me the importance of what it means to truly be myself.

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

Image Credits
Top left- Photographer: @vilerx MUA: @cel.pea Top right- Photographer: @pablocirca MUA: @cel.pea Middle left & right- Photographer: @misslovecraft stylist: @p_e__a_rl @bholmes222 Bottom left & personal photo: @misslovecraft