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

Hi Halle, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
I love this question because I believe that It is imperative to understand the importance of developing habits that essentially turn into your lifestyle. One thing that building my businesses taught me is: how you do ONE thing is how you do EVERYTHING. Mastering the art of showing up as my best self is a habit that has helped me to succeed. Many people are led by their feelings emotions, meaning that when they don’t “feel like it,” they quit or won’t show up fully for themselves. You won’t be motivated every single day to achieve your dreams; therefore, it’s going to take discipline and your habits. One habit that has helped me succeed is waking up early. Establishing a morning routine has helped reprogram my mind, energize my soul, and allow me to get things done in an excited manner. Another important habit that has helped me tremendously is prioritizing my to-do list. One thing about me is I LOVE writing things down. This is essential to bringing your dreams to reality and staying organized. However, I found myself writing such a long to-do list has helped me to stay focused on what is extremely important and what can wait. Overall, my habits have helped me to grow as a person!

What should our readers know about your business?
Recently, I started my own modeling agency, HD Model Management! After being a professional model in the industry for over 6 years, I noticed that the modeling industry needed a SHIFT. Black models often don’t get the same opportunities as other models (and if they do, it’s a fight for a fair pay rate), in addition, you don’t see many black models on the runway shows of high fashion runway shows (the same 1 or 2 models is not enough!) After being a model coach, I wanted to take my passion further by connecting models to these brands. I want the industry to be more diverse and I want to be that agent that goes hard for their models. I want my models to know that I’m on their side and that I will fight for them to be seen, heard, and WORKING with their dream clients. What makes HD Model Management so special is our family dynamic and the fact that the CEO is a model coach. HD Model Management offers training, model coaching, learning resources and development from a model who knows the ins and outs of the industry. I think that makes this agency all the more special. We are launching our first board of models THIS YEAR and I am extremely excited for the world to see what HD Model Management has to offer. Although we recently opened, there have definitely been challenges. Being a CEO of a modeling agency is a whole different beast! Keeping the core values and my mission first has helped me get through the toughest days. When I feel like giving up or that everything is too heavy, I pray and take a moment to realize that this agency is much bigger than me! From that point, I know it’s time to boss up and keep pushing forward. If it was easy then everyone would be doing it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I absolutely love to have fun and I’m a foodie! We would definitely have to visit some amazing restaurants in Baltimore like Blk Swan and Papi Cuisine. We could also expand to the DC area to do a waterfront brunch, see the monuments, and visit some museums! I also love going to comedy shows in the city! It’s amazing to see not only established comedians, but also up and coming comedians as well. Overall, there are so many fun things to do in the city and in the DC area!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I want to give God ALL of the credit! If it weren’t for God, there is absolutely no way that I would be able to get this far in life. I also want to give a HUGE shoutout to my mom, circle of friends, and supporters. My mom has and always be my biggest motivation. She’s my biggest supporter! I remember when I first got started in modeling, my mom and I would travel back and forth to New York on the Megabus trying to get me signed. Agencies would close the door in our faces but my mom never gave up on me, even when I wanted to give up on myself. She has sacrificed so much for me and my career and I couldn’t thank her enough for her support and for pushing me to become the best version of myself. I’ve watched my mom work for everything that she has. From being valedictorian to working multiple jobs to feed my brother and me, to putting herself through college and securing a job where she’s making the most money she’s ever made in her life! This has inspired me to work extra hard for what’s mine. She always told me that if I keep God first I could make it in whatever I wanted to do. Words can’t express my gratitude. Shout out to you mommy!

Website: www.hdmodelmanagement.com

Instagram: @halledeneen

Image Credits
-Shane Suban photo -Kylie and Kendall -Denny’s x Tom Joyner foundation for the BET experience

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