Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalena Kelly-Rossop
Hi Kalena, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a English major from a small town in New Hampshire I started modeling for cash on the side as I worked through college . I was lucky enough to be picked by playboy for there first round of online bunnies, and I’ve enjoyed walking in several shows and modeling jobs all over Florida . I’m also a published nonfiction author !
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?
Well I’m from a very racist area , adapting to floridas idea of race versus New Hampshire was a struggle, I am mixed but growing up in a area with little diversity didn’t allow me to grow up being treated that way , I’ve always identified and been treated as a black women , in Florida people think I’m Hispanic or call me “light skin” but that’s never something I identified with, but I defiantly enjoy the diversity down here !
Also being shorter modeling hasn’t always been easy , I have been rejected a lot ! But I’ve also had the pleasure of working with amazing companies like BET, Playboy , and Photographer’s like Mike Frost !
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m known for modeling mostly people are surprised when they find out I’m also published nonfiction author and English major / student , everyone from back home , Fremont , New Hampshire knows me as an artist I sold paintings all throughout highschool , so I still paint but not as much for others. I found it took the joy out of it for me I prefer painting what I want , not commission based .
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
The reality of modeling isn’t just sitting pretty a lot more work then you think , and just because you personally haven’t expierenced something doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen . Always step in someone else’s shoes and always strive to learn , ask where and why !
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalenakellyr?
- Other: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/kingston-james-j-enright/1140037632
Image Credits
ISB studios , John W Battle Jr., Mike Frost
