Meet Shayla Nekia | Christian Fashion Content Creator

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

Hi Shayla, how do you think about risk?
Anytime there is risk involved, there is the potential of losing something, but that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. For me, in my daytime career as a nurse caring for children with cancer and other diseases, there was considerable risk involved in their care and deciding what treatment they would receive. Oftentimes, I got to watch firsthand that in most cases, the reward is always greater than the risk. When it came to deciding to start a career in fashion as a content creator, my only risk was choosing to be vulnerable and “putting myself out there”. It’s risky to be seen trying. It feels dangerous for people to see that you have dreams. I was risking obscurity, but my reward would be finally getting to create a space online where women felt seen, and it wasn’t just about what we were wearing but also about being authentic and becoming a better person. Knowing that made my fear of being seen worth the risk.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Fashion has always been a passion of mine. It started when I was a child. I had a friend whose mom designed clothing. One day she decided to teach me how to sketch clothing and I was hooked. I spent my free time coming up with designs inspired by the woman around me. Now I still use those women to create looks for fashion content. My style is a mix of what a businesswoman would wear in the 90’s because that’s what I saw from my mom and various other woman in my family , and what is comfortable and modest. One of the ways my father and I bonded was helping him put together suits, so I always love to bring in a touch of masculinity with more structured pieces. My faith inspires my style because I believe that creativity is a gift. With this gift I have been able to create meaningful connections with women where we lift each other up and encourage on another. Doing all of this while keeping my faith at the center is what I am most proud of.

Getting to this place was not easy. I had to learn to push past self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Social media has grown so much and sometimes it’s hard to not compare yourself to other people’s success. I had to constantly remind myself that it is okay for people to see you trying.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has to have some of the best and unique spots. whenever I have friends come to town, we have to visit the Beltline at least once. It’s full of restaurants and locals looking to get exercise or have fun day out. People other for run clubs or to listen to jazz. One of the best places there has to be The James Room. Walking by it appears to be a beautiful coffee shop and cafe with decorated desserts. It also doubles as a speakeasy with great music. The High Museum of Art is the perfect place to get your art fix. They have a variety pieces ranging from historical to more modern art. They also have fun events where you can socialize with other local art lovers. If you love sushi and great cocktails Fudo’ in Chamblee is perfect. Surprisingly, Atlanta has many great hiking spots. One of my favorites is Paces Mill. It has beautiful views of waterfalls and trails.

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 dedicate my shoutout to my grandmother, Inez! Growing up, she was always a great example of grace, kindness, respect, and perseverance. She has a great sense of style and is always honest. I also got to witness how selfless she was with caring for everyone around her. My Grandmother started a daycare center when I was young so she was my first example that a black woman could be a successful business owner. Now that she is retired, I still am thankful that she is always available for encouragement or advice from . She definitely plays a major part in where I am today.

Instagram: @theshaylanekia

Other: TikTok @theshaylanekia

Image Credits
Miranda
Sharai