Meet Kirjah Hoops

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

Hi Kirjah, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I considered starting my own business, a crucial thought process for me was – to keep the plan & simple – focusing on understanding my motivations and defining my ultimate goals. Asking myself “Why I wanted to embark on this journey?” and “What do I hoped to achieve” helped me maintain focus and drive. Ideally, your business should align with your dreams and aspirations, reflecting what you truly want to do with your life.

Your dreams represent your passions, and these passions are what fuel your drive. Therefore, your business should be the primary force that motivates you, as it embodies your dreams and ambitions. All these elements—your passions, motivations, and ultimate goals—should converge to form the foundation of why you want to start your own business. This alignment ensures that your business is not just a professional venture but a personal mission, driven by what you love and aspire to achieve.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This question is fascinating because there are so many layers to it. My life, dreams, and the journey, there’s so much that brought me to where I am today. My story starts from a young age when I was always drawn to the arts, whether it was performing in front of a camera or creating drawings. People often called me a prodigy, a term I didn’t fully understand until I grew older. My father’s side of the family was the artistic influence in my life. My father, in particular, had an incredible talent for drawing and was also skilled with a camera. He used to create beautiful and elegant pieces and capture stunning photos of our family. I naturally inherited his love for art and found myself comfortable in front of the camera from a young age.

My childhood wasn’t the nurturing environment every child deserves, especially for a budding artist like me. My parents’ separation was far from peaceful, and growing up in that turbulent atmosphere left deep scars. I endured mental and physical abuse, not just from my parents but also from my step-parents. The pain became so overwhelming that I found myself running away, desperately seeking an escape from the turmoil.

But what I ran into was even more horrifying. Without delving too deeply into the details, one of those desperate attempts to flee led to me being kidnapped, and for three long years—from ages 12 to 15—I was trapped in the nightmare of human trafficking. The darkness of that time in my life is hard to put into words, but I was fortunate that the police found me when they did. Some of the people responsible were arrested, and I spent countless hours with detectives, revisiting places I wished I could forget, helping them piece together the horrors I had endured.

This was the darkest chapter of my life, but it also became the foundation for my growth. I refused to let myself be defined by what happened; instead, I chose to rise above it.

Sharing this with you is incredibly difficult because I’ve never spoken about it publicly before. I know many of my followers will be shocked to read this, but I want you to know that this part of my past has shaped me into the person I am today—resilient, determined, and unbreakable. Not having a stable home during my formal years was extremely difficult and stressful. As a teenager, I bounced from foster home to foster home and group home to psychiatric wards. No one truly understood what I was going through, which forced me to grow up mentally independent very fast. Despite the hardships, I learned a lot about self-awareness and finding my true self.

As an adult, one of the pivotal moments in my life came after my long-term romantic relationships had ended. A lot of my life I dedicated to making us as a couple successful, and I experienced a lot of abuse in those relationships as well. I didn’t realize how much i still allowed my self to endure, and I needed to get out of this cycle of abuse i was so accustomed to. After I moved from Cincinnati Ohio to Atlanta, a significant turning point offered me a chance to rediscover myself amidst its cultural diversity. Atlanta alone was a wave of culture shock, but it also provided an opportunity to delve deeper into the arts and reconnect with my passions.

I realized that I didn’t want to be just another pretty face; I wanted to build my confidence and self-worth through artistic expression. As I grew more comfortable in front of the camera, I began to discover a love for myself that I had never truly felt before. This journey of self-awareness and confidence was transformative, revealing my true potential and helping me embrace who I really am. Being in front of the camera became more than just fun—it became a powerful tool for facing my insecurities head on, and reclaiming my confidence and rediscovering my sense of self.

Starting my own business was a pivotal moment in my life. It wasn’t just about following my passion; it was about sharing my journey and experiences with others, and helping those who might be facing similar struggles. I wanted to show them how they, too, can evolve through the arts, and how they can learn to love themselves through artistic expression, just as I have.

I’m particularly proud of the diverse experiences I’ve had in my career. From modeling all over the country to performing in Broadway-inspired plays, from acting in different TV shows and movies to having exclusive interviews and modeling publications, each experience has shaped my artistic journey. These opportunities have not only enhanced my skills but also broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the arts.

The path to where I am today has been far from easy, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and self-belief. My story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and the transformative power of art. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and find healing and strength through creative expression.

I still have so much to learn and share with the world. My business is still slowly growing. Currently my business is booking me for features or publications through my modeling and acting experience, I am on the way to becoming a life coach so I can truly help others feel and become successful and confident. My journey is ongoing, and I’m excited about the future possibilities. I want the world to know that my art is a celebration of individuality and a testament to the power of perseverance. My brand is built on the belief that through the arts, we can find our true selves and connect with others in meaningful ways.

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?
*It’s funny that this is the question because I recently had a fantastic time celebrating my 30th birthday in Los Angeles. I wanted to enjoy a familiar place with close friends and just relax. Here’s a detailed itinerary from that trip which I’d definitely recommend for anyone wanting to experience the best of LA:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Bliss
*Morning: Find a well-located Airbnb. Ours was perfectly situated in the heart of the city, making it easy to walk to many attractions.
*Afternoon: Start with a visit to Venice Beach. The lively boardwalk, street performers, and picturesque ocean views are always a hit. Relax and soak up the sun.
*Evening: Enjoy a bonfire at Dockweiler State Beach. The fire pits there offer a cozy setting to roast marshmallows, watch the sunset, and unwind.

Day 2: Culinary Delights and Cultural Sites
*Morning: Grab breakfast at Eggslut. Despite the quirky name, their egg sandwiches are incredibly delicious and a must-try.
*Afternoon: Explore The Getty Center. The museum offers breathtaking art collections and stunning architecture. Take a walk through the gardens and enjoy the panoramic views.
*Evening: For dinner, head to Sakana Sushi Lounge. The sushi is exceptional, and the ambiance is perfect for a relaxed meal with amazing flavors and cocktails.

Day 3: Sweet Treats and Scenic Views
*Morning: Start your day with a visit to Donut Friend. Their unique and mouthwatering donuts are a great treat, even if they might not be the healthiest choice!
*Afternoon: Take a hike up to Griffith Observatory. The hike offers great views of the city and the Hollywood sign. Once there, you can enjoy the exhibits and stargazing.
*Evening: Have dinner at The Bazaar by José Andrés. This restaurant provides an innovative dining experience with a blend of Spanish and global flavors.

Day 4: Hollywood Highlights and Shopping
*Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Republique, renowned for its excellent pastries and hearty breakfast options.
*Afternoon: Visit Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and maybe take a celebrity home tour.
*Evening: Explore The Grove, a popular shopping and dining destination. Enjoy a meal at The Bazaar or another top spot in the area.

Day 5: Adventure and Relaxation
*Morning: Start with breakfast at Blu Jam Café, famous for its French toast and vibrant brunch dishes.
*Afternoon: Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood. The theme park offers thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes tours.
*Evening: Head to Sushi Gen in Little Tokyo for a fantastic sushi dinner.

Day 6: Arts and Local Vibes
*Morning: Have brunch at The Butcher’s Daughter, known for its fresh and innovative vegetarian dishes.
*Afternoon: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), which features an extensive collection of art from different periods and cultures.
*Evening: Check out The Last Bookstore in downtown LA for a unique browsing experience, and then enjoy dinner at Bestia, a highly acclaimed Italian restaurant.

Day 7: Farewell and Relaxation
*Morning: Enjoy a final brunch at Gjusta, a trendy deli known for its delicious breakfast and baked goods.
*Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Santa Monica Pier, taking a ride on the Ferris wheel, playing games, and enjoying the lively beach atmosphere.
*Evening: Wrap up the trip with dinner at Nobu Malibu, where you can enjoy excellent Japanese cuisine with stunning ocean views.

Throughout the week, you’d encounter some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting people and places in LA. Whether it’s the vibrant culture of Venice Beach, the artistic vibe of The Getty Center, or the culinary delights of local restaurants, LA has something for everyone. With a focus on food and beach activities, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable and enjoyable experience in this dynamic city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

To be honest, there have been so many incredible people I’ve worked with throughout my journey that I would feel bad if I missed anyone’s name. So, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to everyone who has been a part of my life and contributed to my growth and success.

First and foremost, to all the photographers & videographers that I’ve collaborated with—your artistic vision and dedication have not only captured my image but also inspired me to see myself in new and empowering ways. Your work has been instrumental in shaping my career and helping me present my best self to the world.

A huge thank you to the magazines that have published my work and interviewed me. Your platforms have given me a voice and allowed me to share my story with a broader audience. The editors, writers, and creative teams behind these publications have my deepest gratitude for believing in my potential and showcasing my journey.

To the podcasts that have featured me, thank you for providing a space where I could speak my truth and connect with listeners on a more personal level. These conversations have been invaluable, not just for sharing my experiences, but also for learning from the stories and insights of others.

The film and TV projects I’ve been a part of have been life-changing. The directors, producers, and fellow actors have all contributed to my growth as an artist. Each role I’ve played and every scene I’ve filmed have taught me something new about my craft and myself. Your mentorship and support have been pivotal in my career development.

I also want to recognize the theater community, especially those involved in the plays I’ve performed in, like ‘The Color Purple’. The camaraderie, dedication, and talent within this community have been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. The lessons learned on stage are lessons that I carry with me every day.

Lastly, a special shoutout to all the individuals and organizations that have inspired and uplifted me along the way. Whether it was a brief encounter or a long-term collaboration, each interaction has left an imprint on my heart. Your support, encouragement, and belief in me have been the fuel driving my journey.

To all of you, thank you for giving me a piece of your time, energy, and wisdom. Each experience has been a building block in my growth, helping me to learn, elevate, and strive for more. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has walked this path with me and helped shape my story.

Website: https://empowermoda-cf0qf.zensmb.com/

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

Twitter: https://x.com/HoopsKirjah

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirjah.hoops/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-HuJKNS23snyGWS6DHwRSQ 

Image Credits
SDL Creative Studios Black Rock Center for the Arts Theater Oriel Dé Lachi