We had the good fortune of connecting with Aneesah Hanan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aneesah, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
This was a challenging question for me to answer. My definition of success is evolving as am I. I used to define success in the terms of tangible things, a home, a car, etc. Once I achieved those shorter term goals, the satisfaction was also short lived.

Success for me is being an amazing single mother to two dope children after divorce. Can we talk about this not being the path I thought my life would take?? Success is having peace of mind, praying through and overcoming depression. Growing closer to God and being a light to others.

This type of success also came with a hefty price. This meant dissociating myself from people and things that were no longer serving me.

My path hasn’t been easy. I grew up in what I now recognize as a dysfunctional household that did not speak of mental health or other challenges. Some of these experiences shaped but, I refused to let it limit my future. I choose different forms of art as my therapy and my gift I share with the world.

My two loves are modeling and art. I started modeling at the late age of 25 but I didn’t allow that to deter me. I have had the pleasure to create beautiful work with some amazing designers and photographers. My work has been published in the “Atlantan”, “Jezebel” and “Bride” magazines, just to name a few.

If I’m not modeling, I’m creating. Modhaus Beauty (www.Modhausbeauty.com) reflects my love of art. Modhaus means “Model House”. It is a “Shop my closet” online jewelry and accessories boutique that currently sells fun, bold, out-of-the-box pieces. Most of the pieces are handmade and no two pieces are alike. No pattern will ever be repeated unless it’s in another form. My goal is for my client to feel as if I made it especially for them.

We also sell some unique earring accessories ranging from oversized sea shells to gold alligator studs. We have something for everyone. Modhaus Beauty is humbly growing and we hope to start selling skincare and apparel in the upcoming year.

This journey has been rewarding and extremely challenging. I have no regrets and I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m Aneesah Hanan, a bad-ass single mother that’s blessed to do extraordinary things.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Actually, I didn’t know anything about modeling until I met photographer Reggie Anderson. He saw me out one evening and wanted to have a photoshoot. After the photoshoot, I was offered a job for a hair magazine and my love for modeling grew from there. I submitted my pictures to over 60 agencies around the world and received an offer to come to Cape Town, South Africa. I stayed for three months and had a ball. I did campaign work for Dove Beauty and worked with various photographers. After returning to Atlanta, I was signed with Click Model Management. Throughout my career I have worked with Mary Kay Cosmetics, Fashizblack, Jezebel Magazine, and Dümmen Orange. I recently worked with Deelite Photography, Art Meso and Balmori Balmori. I’m not really sure about the next phase of my modeling career or which direction I would like to go but I don’t see myself quitting anytime soon. I’m just enjoying the journey.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First of all, Atlanta is beautiful. I would occasionally cruise through the city at night with the windows down while playing jazz on the radio. The skyline is stunning. Another great place is the Atlanta BeltLine. That is my one stop shop for art, food and fun. The energy is simply amazing! You can bike ride, skate, eat good food and paint. It’s also a great place to find art and various vendors. However, I would not limit the visit to the central part of Atlanta. The scenic rides outside of the perimeter are just as charming. When I need to escape from the hustle, I’ll take a quick trip to the North Georgia Mountains, Callaway Gardens or St. Simons Island. I love my city. Atlanta is full of history. It is a melting pot of cultures. Plus, the weather is nice.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a special shout out to my dope village. My parents who encouraged me to take the unconventional path; who showed me what trauma looked like as well as grace and forgiveness, who helped me gain the courage to deal with the challenges and successes in this life; the ones that taught me resilience and helped me begin my personal “journey of self-discovery”. Who never judged me and more importantly, has helped me to become the person that I need to be for my children by breaking the familial curses of the past.

The friends who became family that loved me unconditionally and supported me through the hardest moments of my life. I love you! Last but not least, my beautiful children who saved my life. You are all amazing!

Website: www.modhausbeauty.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modhausbeauty/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModhausBeauty

Image Credits
deelite photography Amelia Design LLC Joe Stuckey

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