Meet DeOnte Newsom | Model

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

Hi DeOnte, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Earl Nightingale, one of my favorite authors and speakers, defined success
as “The progressive realization of a worthy ideal”. Simply put, a success is anyone who sets out to do that which they aspire to do because they decided to do it.

Society has conditioned us to believe that success is determined by achieving certain accolades or earning a certain amount of money. Consequently, we chase materialism only to realize that material is not success at all.

You’re successful when you realize what you want to do or become and, with consistency and commitment, begin to work toward that goal. This is how I define success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Big & Tall model and I’m most excited about being a part of the body positivity movement for brawn men. I think It’s important for everyone to be able to see themselves especially in an industry (fashion) that has marginalized plus size men for so long.

I would be remiss if I didn’t say that God is the only reason I’ve made it this far professionally. It most definitely was not easy. I continue to overcome many challenges by not being afraid to fail. Failure is just another opportunity to preserve.

“Without commitment, you will never start. Without consistency, you will never finish.”

This is, by far, the most important lesson I’ve learned along the way. I want everyone to know that regardless of any situation, you are more than capable of achieving success; whatever that may be for you. Representation is the most essential part of what I do as a model. It’s my driving force for men of stature to be seen and feel validated.

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.
Nashville, Tennessee is a fast-growing city with a lot to offer. You can not come
to Nashville without first eating at Prince’s Hot Chicken, the originator of what’s known as Nashville Hot Chicken. From there, we definitely have to visit the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) dedicated to educating, preserving and celebrating Black music. Another interesting place to check out is the Cë Gallery. The Cë Gallery host a number of art exhibitions every month from sculptural to abstract art. Finally, one of my personal favorite places to get drinks is L27 Rooftop Lounge. Located in downtown Nashville, it’s a nice place to unwind and catch a vibe.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to anyone who feels like throwing in the towel. Reset. Refocus. But don’t give up. I’d also like to shoutout my agency, The Bridge Agency, for being so amazing. Lastly, if you haven’t read The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale, you should. I’ve found it to be quite insightful and life changing.

Website: https://newyork.bridgeagency.com/divisions/men/portfolios/deonte

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