Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tariq Williams.
Hi Tariq, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
As a child, I was raised by a young mother who didn’t have many job options. She worked hard at work and school to provide me with a better life. She worked retail at Aeropostale, and I was always with her, looking at clothes, models, and advertisements. One day in Abercrombie, I saw a poster and told myself I would do that. People always noticed my aura and dedication to my craft and told me to take it seriously. At 19, I did my first photoshoot with my photographer friend Jadah, and the pictures were fire!!!
Once I saw what I was capable of, I made it my passion. In spring 2023, I did a new balance advertising campaign where a photographer named Tresean took my pictures and offered me to be on a billboard. I’ve always talked about wanting to be on a billboard, and seeing it come true was surreal. Where I’m from, many people don’t move or make it out alive. I want to show the kids who have dreams, who are called weird or treated differently, that their dreams are valid and that whatever they put their minds to can be achieved. You are the architect of your own life. You choose who stays and goes.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Many people create a distinct narrative about me based on my looks. People think I’m going to be rude or unapproachable, but I am the nicest person once you talk to me.
This has been a struggle for many black men, being judged before even an attempt at getting to know them. I hope to change people’s minds about their perceptions and encourage them to step into someone else’s.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an upcoming model in Baltimore City. I model different kinds of brands with unique stories behind them. I am passionate about styling different pieces together, creating art and expression through clothing.
Most people know me for the outfits I’ve created, brands I’ve modeled for, or photographers I have worked with. My proudest moment was seeing myself on a city billboard, as I had always dreamed of.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I believe that patience is the most important character trait for my passion. You should never question someone else’s success just because you want similar things.
Waiting your turn and acknowledging that no person’s journey will be the same is important when running toward success. The things you want will come when you are ready and the time is right.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
@jdunyoh, @almghtyj, and @fpgazy
