Quincy Gainous shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Quincy, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes, I just finished wrapping up all the details on a huge project I plan on doing. Lots of time has been taken to ensure that this project goes smoothly and I’m proud of myself for making it happen. I’ve done many things in my life, but I think this just might be the biggest and best thing I’ve ever done. Stay tuned!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Gladly! Hello everyone, my name is Quincy Gainous and I am an Entertainer. After reflecting on what I want for my future, I realized my passion for the entertainment industry isn’t just a hobby, it’s my lifelong career path. I am a Model, Dancer, and Actor, and what makes me unique is my determination to fulfill my goals while using my craft to impact my culture. Right now, I see myself as a soldier in the ongoing movement to educate people on the history and power of Black excellence. I believe it’s my responsibility not just to learn, but to share that knowledge in creative ways that inspire others. I want my work to open doors for more stories to be told, all while doing the things I love most.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My first fashion show. I was nervous and unsure of what I was doing, but advice from the people around me helped me pull myself together. I stepped into my safe space, imagining the person I wanted to be walking that runway, and I just went for it. In that moment, I felt powerful, like I had taken the first step toward something much bigger. That experience gave me confidence and motivation, showing me that I can push boundaries, own my craft, and keep moving toward my goals.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I always knew I wanted to be in the entertainment industry, but for a long time I feared it couldn’t be a full-time career. People told me it wasn’t “practical” and that I should focus on something more traditional for the future. Even that little voice in my head started agreeing with them, and I wondered if I needed to take a safer path. Eventually, I decided to trust myself and pursue my passion full time. I may not be living off it yet, but I now know it’s possible, and that with education, skill-building, and hard work, I can make this my career. I’ve realized that every path carries risk, even someone aiming to be a doctor or lawyer isn’t guaranteed success right away. Hard work doesn’t guarantee results, but it increases your chance, and I’m willing to put in the effort to carve my own path.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie the industry tells itself is that it’s not for everyone. The truth is, anyone can dance, act, sing, model, whatever they want, if they put in the work. The real challenge isn’t talent; it’s comparison. It’s easy to measure yourself against someone else, but that only keeps you trapped in someone else’s standards. The people at the top made it there by being themselves and creating their own path. If you protect your craft and focus on doing your own thing, you set your own standards. At the end of the day, the only judge of your life is you. Just saying.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, because at the end of the day the only person I’m focused on satisfying is myself. Having people like what I do is a bonus, but it’s not my main goal. Sometimes I create things with the intention of people noticing, but not because I need their approval. It’s more about making sure they’re aware of the message I’m sharing. I want to spread awareness about topics, not seek praise for talking about them. Once I feel like I’ve done my job and expressed what I needed to, I’m proud of myself no matter how others react.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @quincygainous
- Linkedin: @quincygainous
- Twitter: @quincygainouss
- Youtube: @Quincy Gainous
Image Credits
Jazlene Caraballo, Carlos Rodriguez, Stanislav Kozub
