“Passionate, Resilient, Persistent:” Interview with N’Dea
By Contagion Media
“It is my mission to empower women in their own skin and be able to express themselves without judgment or ridicule.” - N’Dea
Modeling by N’Dea, Photography by Jackie Sterna
N’Dea Walker is a professional model with experience in fashion show, runway modeling, product modeling and print modeling. In her free time, N’Dea likes to sing, dance, and write as well as hosting events, spending time watching movies and picking up a good book to read.
As a little girl, N’Dea always wanted to be a model. In 2019, N’Dea took the leap and began pursuing her dreams. “I started my training for modeling and acting with Models Melange. In my time being a model, I have been with three agencies; multiple runways in New York, Michigan, Texas, and Arizona; and also photoshoots for various clothing lines, makeup and body products, art work, and websites.
One of N’Dea’s main focus is on breaking down barriers and reconstructing the “beauty” standard. “I am not a small woman by any means and it has not been the easiest time expanding peoples platforms and brands to bigger women.”
A well educated model, N’Dea also possesses an AA and BS and is currently studying for her Master’s Degree. She is also passionate about animals and working with the Special Olympics.
Modeling by N’Dea, Photo by Shawna Caldwell
Describing herself as passionate, resilient, and persistent, N’Dea’s mission is to empower women in their own skin, encouraging them to express themselves without judgment or ridicule.” One of N’Dea’s main goal is to work with photographers and brands “while exhibiting the beauty of a woman with a different body type”.
N’Dea has broken many social and racial barriers growing up. “As an artist, I am persistent on the matter of showing all types of women that they are beautiful in their own bodies and they don’t have to fit the standard to showcase that.”
No matter what size you are, N’Dea encourages women everywhere to follow their dreams and to not take criticism at face value. “There will always be a space and inclusion for everyone as long as the world moves towards a better future for all types of models and artists.”
When asked about her favorite project, N’Dea shared a nostalgic memory of her first product shoot for Fle Soley. “I did that shoot on a mountain during sunset and the photos came out absolutely gorgeous. It was also the first time I worked with a professional photographer.”
Modeling by N’Dea, Photography by Megan Ace
In addition to working with photographers for creative work, N’Dea also enjoys attending concerts and having fun out and about in the Arizona nightlife. She describes herself as a “night person” and is really vibing to Tove Lo’s music lately, (especially because Tove Lo is an activist).
Showing endless determination and grace, it is clear that N’Dea has a bright and inspiring future ahead. Working towards her Master’s Degree, N’Dea future career goals also includes “continuing to use [her] platform to show women everywhere that they are incredible and awesome just the way they are. “
Without my avid persistence, I would not be where I am today. I would like to continue sharing that message with other aspiring artists of any media.” For every artist following their dream, N’Dea wants to emphasize to “Never give up. It is going to be a journey and possibly a lot of rejection [but] the key to life is to give up and to never forget your purpose.
