Life & Work with Jocelyn Edwards of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jocelyn Edwards.

Hi Jocelyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I would say that my journey as young as five years old. Being inspired by creatives around me and always wanting to be able to express myself in similar ways. Of course, then as the years go by your ideas, goals, and aspirations may change and shift a bit, but ultimately, they helped shape me. Growing up, I was shaped by so many different people, experiences, and environments– some I can say encouraged me, challenged me, and others that made me question myself at times. Experiencing both positive and negative influences throughout the years played a major role in who I am today.

As I grew older, I began searching for different ways to express the many sides of myself. From early on I was involved in acting, dance, narration, sports, and many other leadership and extra-curricular activities. Through each experience, I was able to gather something uniquely different about confidence, discipline, teamwork, vulnerability, storytelling, and being comfortable taking up space in the most authentic ways.

After losing my brother Jalen Keaton to a suicidal battle in December of 2021, I had to find ways to positively pull myself through the journey of mourning and grief. This is when I decided to return to pageantry in order to gain a better connection with my sense of self after the loss. In 2023 I was crowned the 41st Miss Black Ohio America Queen and following that tenure my modeling career took off.

Pageantry challenged me to understand who I am, what I stand for, and ultimately how I wanted to use my presence and voice to positively impact the lives of others by encouraged them to also express their most authentic selves creatively. Modeling became a natural extension of everything I had already been through and continued learning. As Model J. Sequoia, I’ve continued to develop my identity within the industry by working with esteemed photographers, designers, brands, makeup artists, creatives, stylists, and other industry professionals.

Looking back, it feels like everything has come to a full circle. Drama taught me storytelling. Dance taught me movement. Sports taught me discipline. Pageantry taught me purpose and confidence. Modeling has allowed me to bring each of these pieces together. I’m proud of where and how far I’ve come though I’m even more excited about where I’m going. As my journey continues to unfold you can be sure to follow my progression on Instagram @Model.Jsequoia and on Facebook at J Sequoia Edwards! Thank You!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has definitely not been an entirely smooth one. Some of the struggles that I have encountered include the loss of my brother, body dysmorphia, and the constant challenges of identifying and clarifying my specific goals within the industry. Navigating the different mental, physical, and emotional stages of this journey has also posed to be challenging. I try not to complain because I know it’s all part of this unique journey I’m on which has included highs and lows. Learning this industry in itself and familiarizing myself with the business aspects and the professional side has been something that I’ve learned to grow to enjoy no matter how often it changes.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a creative, I mainly hold the title of Professional Industry Model. This includes, but is not limited to, pageant queen, runway work, high fashion, editorials, commercial, and acting. Since my journey started by way of pageantry, I’d have to say that runway is my specialty, or it’s just really near to my heart. There’s something truly rewarding about being able to bring a designer’s garments to life in front of an audience. I am most proud of continuing this journey through the ups, down, doubts, highs, and lows. Recently getting signed to a talent agency has also proved to be one of my most proud moments because it’s been a high ranked goal of mine. Of course, I can’t leave out becoming and international model working in Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, and African Fashion Week Toronto runways!

I believe I have a very distinct look, being a darkskin model with locs that instantly sets me apart.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work directly with me by reaching out to any of my social media platforms. By email, Instagram, Facebook, Kavyar, or direct messaging. I am always looking for creatives who are looking to expand upon their talents and work together or in collaboration. Support is free and is made possible by following my platforms, engaging in content, and sharing to others that may be interested in my work!

Pricing:

• Local Independent Fashion Show $150+
• Editorial/ Photoshoots $200+
• Regional Fashion Week $400+
• Commercial Promotional $600+
• National Ad Campaigns $1,000+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kavyar.com/orghqjoprgzi
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/model.jsequoia
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19R5rXmze5/
• LinkedIn: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwards-jocelyn
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@modelj.sequoia
• Other: https://www.backstage.com/tal/jsequoia