Meet Amber G. Johnson | Weapons Consultant & +Size Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber G. Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber G., we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I believe that CALCULATED risks can bring about great change into your life. I admit that in the past my risks weren’t as well thought out as they are now but one of my favorite experiences with “betting on myself” by taking a risk actually happened in 2014. I was a student-athlete with a 2.9GPA but I just knew that I didn’t want to continue playing sports in college so I rejected offers and submitted one application to Spelman College. I knew that in order for me to excel academically I needed to sacrifice some of my extracurricular activities so I spent my junior year of high school applying for scholarships and sharing my story to anyone who would listen and possibly take a chance on me. I have to admit that it was upsetting to my coaches and peers but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I have since graduated from Spelman with honors and went on to pursue my doctoral degree at Georgia Tech. Although I did not complete my PhD I graduated with two masters degrees and this perceived failure helped me to realize that sometimes risks can also bring about rewards that break your spirit but ultimately fix your vision. So in 2022 I decided to step out of my comfort zone and pivot as a plus size model and Weapons Consultant passionate about merging the topics of fashion and firearms safety education. This risk and pivot has rewarded me with speaking engagements, I began to assist home owners with interior design self defense consultations, and really committed to promoting the Black tradition of arms via my social media account. I was nervous at first but I learned quickly that my gifts were making room for me in the industry and I proudly serve my community as a second amendment advocate with a passion for fashion.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a Weapons Consultant I am focused on engaging and informing the modern day firearms enthusiast about the responsibility of owning a firearm, the process of purchasing a firearm, and educate others about the Black tradition of arms. I conduct research on the latest tech in the industry, will gladly tag along with you for range visits, I write firearms and concealed carry weapons(CCW) accessory reviews, and I consult clients on interior design and fashion needs. Although my father taught me how to safely handle a firearm when I was 10y.o. my passion was reignited when I became a legal owner myself at 21 while working at outdoor and indoor gun ranges as a Range Safety Officer(RSO). An RSO is someone who is knowledgeable about various firearms platforms, promotes the safe handling of firearms, provides assistance and instructions to patrons, and reduces the potential for personal injury and property damage by staying vigilant. As an interior designer and plus size model I’ve had the opportunity to learn from and partner with CCW accessory companies, range design organizations, and instructors which has helped me to overcome the challenge of being a minority in the industry. What I am most proud of and excited about is that in the future as an FFL, which is a business that is licensed to engage in the business of firearms, I will be able to connect fellow enthusiasts with instructors and help them find the firearms that they need. When I first entered the industry professionally three years ago I learned that the best way to shine as a Black woman in the industry is through hands on experiences and by talking to people at gun shows, conferences, and manufacturer conventions. In addition to modeling CCW clothing I have enjoyed the opportunity to shadow gunsmiths, FFL owners, licensed instructors, and share my love for interior design with my mother as admin for our family business, Interior Accents by Judith. I want the world to know that taking the road less traveled requires faith, patience, and study! Lastly, showing up as your authentic self is truly the key to your success. Although my journey has been coupled with a learning curve I am extremely proud of my credentials.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a sucker for surprises so I’ll have a car full of gas and a welcome bouquet of flowers ready when I come to pick them up at the airport. After we drop off their bags at my place and arrange the flowers on the bedside table in the guest room we’ll slide over to the grocery store to grab all of their favorite snacks for the week.

Day 1 – First we’d order some Tassili’s on our phones and pick up our wraps with some aloe drink before heading over to Piedmont Park for a picnic and an opportunity to catch up.

Day 2 – Get up early so we can spend the first half of the day at the Morningside Nature Preserve enjoying the scenery and then roam around Little Five Points

Day 3 – Rest, because we’re bosses that don’t take losses and we must recharge for the upcoming weekend. This day will include a little meditation, cooking together, and spending time with my 3y.o. poodle, Luda.

Day 4 – Visit Stillwell’s Emporium in downtown Stone Mountain and enjoy a waistbead tying session Thursday evening with Rhoyal Beauty Beads

Day 5 – Head over to High Frequency Friday @ the High Museum of Art to dance and network

Day 6 – Enjoy Saturday brunch with friends at Milk and Honey(Wesley Chapel)

Day 7 – Go to church in person or virtually and then prepare for their departure

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shoutout the 100+ chapters of the National African American Gun Association(NAAGA) for leading the charge in informing the masses about the Black Tradition of Arms, physical and mental health awareness, and serving our communities with our God-given talents. I’m an avid reader so I can’t forget to mention the book No Disrespect by Sister Souljah which inspired me to step out on faith and shine as Black woman in an industry that is predominantly represented by men and individuals with law enforcement or military backgrounds. The everyday gun owner seeks to receive guidance from folks who make them feel seen, heard, and understood and I am proud of the growing number of African Americans breaking the mold and exceeding expectations in their various industries.

Instagram: @TheAmberGJ

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theambergj/

Image Credits
@Pew_Brothers