Today we’d like to introduce you to Jada Hubert
Hi Jada, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started modeling during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to stay busy when everything else seemed to come to a standstill. It was always something that intrigued me, and growing up, people would often tell me I should pursue it. However, I never thought it was something I would take seriously. One day, while scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon a local agency holding an open casting call, and I decided to give it a shot. At the time, I had just graduated from college and, given the pandemic, my schedule wasn’t too hectic. A few weeks later, I received a call back and signed with the agency, marking the beginning of my modeling journey.
Though I’m represented by the agency, most of the modeling opportunities I’ve had have come from my own efforts. Since stepping into this world, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many talented designers and fashion curators from St. Louis and across the country. I’ve had the honor of walking during amazing events such as LA Fashion Week, Omaha Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and St. Louis Black Fashion Week. Locally, I’ve participated in shows at iconic venues like The St. Louis Lambert Airport, St. Louis Riverfront, The Art Museum, and Saks Fifth Avenue, among others.
Additionally, I’ve worked with some incredible local brands, including The Woke Brand, The Fur and Leather Centre, 1026 Styles, Shamaica Chanel, Designs by J. Stocking, Made in STL, Royal Rags, Legends in Time (LGND), CrispinMulatto, Mikkel, The Only Lifestyle (T.O.L.), Denise Li—who I also collaborated with for a shoot that was featured in OffTown magazine, and so many more.
One of my most unforgettable projects was a shoot dedicated to honoring women in history whose stories deserved to be retold which was produced by Her Eminent Reign. What made it especially meaningful was not just the powerful message, but the fact that it was showcased at the Saint Louis Lambert Airport. All of these experiences and many more have shaped my journey and brought me to where I am today in my modeling career.
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 to where I am today has certainly not been without its challenges, and I’d be lying if I said it’s been easy. Speaking from my own experience, the path I’m aiming to take within this industry was always going to be a tough one, especially considering I started modeling later than many others. Most top models begin their careers as teenagers, while I embarked on this journey in my early twenties. Fortunately, I’ve often been told that I look younger than my age, which works in my favor at times! But when it comes to landing spots with major agencies, they tend to seek younger models, though I know there’s always that one exception to the rule—so I refuse to lose hope.
Alongside that, there’s the ever-present fear of rejection, especially when auditioning with hundreds of other models. While I’ve been fortunate to land the majority of the shows and modeling opportunities I’ve auditioned for, there have still been a few “no’s” along the way. I understand that rejection is part of the process and that I won’t land every opportunity I go after—that’s just the reality of this industry. But even with that knowledge, it still stings a bit when I don’t get a job, especially when it’s one I really hoped for. I try not to dwell on it, though, choosing instead to view it as something that wasn’t meant for me at that moment. Throughout this journey, I’ve leaned heavily on my faith, trusting that everything happens for a reason and focusing on not stressing over things that are beyond my control.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Outside of modeling, I work full-time as an Administrative Assistant at St. Louis University in the Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training. My role there is multifaceted—I assist with our Pro Bono clinic, plan events, manage the social media accounts for both programs, and take on a variety of other tasks. Working at a university just a few years after my own graduation has been an interesting experience in many ways, but in a positive light. I’ve been able to bridge the gap between students and faculty, having recently been in their shoes.
In addition to my role at SLU, I also run my own press-on nail business, J. Dazzle Nails LLC. I started the business during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I wasn’t able to physically do nails. Once the world returned to a sense of normalcy, I realized I enjoyed creating press-ons more than traditional nail services, so I decided to focus solely on that.
Starting my nail business has been one of my proudest achievements outside of modeling. Initially, it was a way to earn extra income while in college, but when the pandemic hit, I had to get creative to keep the business afloat. One of my best friends suggested I switch to press-ons, and the idea instantly clicked. Since then, I’ve fully embraced this avenue of my business.
With so many different pursuits, I believe it helps set me apart because I’m not solely focused on one thing—and I don’t want to be. I enjoy the challenge of juggling multiple priorities, and it keeps me on my toes. It’s also helping me mentally prepare for the future and build multiple streams of income, which is one of my life goals. Modeling is a huge part of who I am, but it’s not the only part, and I plan to maintain this balance throughout my life.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
First and foremost, I want to give a heartfelt thank you to my parents for their unwavering support throughout my modeling journey from day one. I’d especially like to shine a light on my mom, who has truly been my personal assistant since I started. From being my photographer to traveling with me for shows and handling everything in between, she’s been an incredible source of support. While I wouldn’t say I couldn’t have done this without her, I can say that my journey would have felt nearly impossible without her by my side. Her encouragement and the way she uplifts me, in ways only a mother can, are things I’ll forever be grateful for as she’s walked this path with me.
I also want to acknowledge my family and close friends, who have been there from the very beginning, cheering me on every step of the way. I’ve always been grateful that they’ve never made me feel uneasy about modeling or questioned my ability to succeed. They’ve consistently encouraged me to stay consistent, keep going, and trust in God’s plan. Their support, both big and small, has meant more than they know. On countless occasions, when I was ready to give up on modeling, a simple conversation or even an uplifting comment on social media from one of them has reminded me that this journey is worth pursuing all the way.
Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to connect with incredible models, designers, and fashion curators who inspire and motivate me when I’m feeling defeated. While having a solid support system of family and friends is invaluable, it’s also comforting to have people within the same field as me—those who are either on the same path or have already reached where I want to be—offering inspiration and encouragement.
Pricing:
- Photoshoots: – I do everything (hair & makeup) including clothes = $150/hour – I come hair & makeup ready = $125/hour – Everything provided = $100/hour
- Runway: – Hair & makeup provided = $300/show day – I come hair and makeup ready = $450/ show day
- Content Creating: you record, I come hair and makeup ready = $100/hour – I record & post on my page = free product and discount code for customers
- All pricing is negotiable
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://bit.ly/40lCq6l (@jada_janae)
- Other: Modeling portfolio: https://bit.ly/3BtbRT9 – Walking videos: https://bit.ly/4iAmSm9
Image Credits
Nylus Black Visuals
R5Graphics
Phillip Ellington Media
Jerome Hutchinson Photography
Shonuffpics
