Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyra Nabours
Kyra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It’s funny how full circle life can be sometimes.
My Mom actually gave me my first introduction to the modeling industry. As a baby, she had me competing in pageants and involved with photo shoots with Page Parkes Center of Modeling and Acting in hopes that I would become a model. Unfortunately, I didn’t want anything to do with a camera. I was extremely shy and socially awkward back then, and much preferred reading or drawing. My mother has always supported whatever I wanted to do, and did not force me to keep trying. Thanks, Mom!
Despite my shyness, I have always loved playing dress up, acting, and singing. I was involved in musical theater in elementary school and high school, and never missed a chance to perform in my school talent shows. While I enjoyed it, I never considered pursuing it as a career. I was determined to become a pediatric surgeon.
I’ll save you a long story and tell you that I did not become a pediatric surgeon. However, I did end up working as a supervisor for the Care Navigation department at a health insurance agency. Oddly enough, this is where my interest in modeling was ignited.
The first spark was when I had to take head shots for my company. They set up a photoshoot at our downtown office. They hired a makeup artist and everything. The photographer told me that I was very photogenic and should consider modeling. I was so flattered and the comment definitely stuck with me. I also loved getting my makeup done and feeling pretty in front of the camera. A seed was planted.
My interest combusted after I was asked to be a part of a YouTube video the company was producing in order to explain my role at the company. It was the first time I ever worked with a camera crew, and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. The minute that they said “Quiet on the set,” I remember wondering if it was my real life. The video came out great and I remember wanting more opportunities like it.
The Instagram algorithm heard me and started showing me modeling ads on my feed. I enrolled in the Model with Purpose course with Christian Models Association, and that’s when my modeling career really began. I started doing Time for Print shoots to practice posing, network with photographers, and build my portfolio. It’s safe to say that my interest has turned into a passion. Every free moment that I have outside of work and motherhood is spent pursuing my modeling career. This has led me to where I am today~ receiving more and more opportunities everyday to be involved in fashion shows, commercials, and magazine features.
It’s funny to think of how far I’ve come from that little girl that would cry as soon as she saw a camera. I guess Mother really does know best.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to becoming a model has had its ups and downs.
The biggest challenge starting out was learning to recognize reputable photoshoot opportunities and agencies to work with. I’m embarrassed to tell you how much money I’ve wasted on scam agencies or how gullible I was thinking top clothing brands source their models from Facebook groups.
I also really struggled with what kind of model I wanted to be and how to stand firm on my boundaries with where my comfort zone was. I knew that sexy sells and that I’m curvy, so it would likely be an easier path if I was comfortable with lingerie and swimsuits, but it didn’t align with my goals so I rarely accept those sorts of opportunities. Thankfully, I attended a zoom interview with supermodel Nini Amerlise and she gave me the best advice. She told me that I didn’t need to conform or compromise; every model has an audience that their beauty and their style speaks to and in time I would find mine. She said to continue creating my art and being my authentic self and be consistent and success would follow. I am starting to see that she was right.
My greatest obstacle has been trying to pursue modeling while working a full-time job, raising a 4-year old son, and trying to squeeze a social life somewhere in-between. My schedule is jam packed between school drop-off and pick-ups, tee ball games, photo shoots, and fashion show fittings/rehearsals. It’s definitely a dance but I am having fun and learning to balance things a little better everyday. Thankful for my village that helps keep me sane and reminds me to listen to my body when I need to slow down.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a commercial and fashion model. I think my signature features are my smile and my big, curly hair.
I love to work with brands that are natural and make you look and feel your best. I also enjoy projects that allow me to model with a purpose. For example, I am participating in the Walk of Grace on 11/4 in Houston, TX and the proceeds from the show will benefit at-risk and CPS involved youth. I also hope to be involved with a fashion show in November which will benefit victims of domestic abuse.
I am most proud of the work that I’ve done that will withstand the test of time. I really value the concept of leaving a legacy. My images that have been selected to be used for magazines or book covers or commercials will be around long after I am gone. My children and grandchildren will be able to see what I looked like when I was young and chasing my dreams, and I hope it will inspire them to pursue their own.
The trait that sets me apart from others is my kindness. People often tell me that I am the nicest person they’ve ever encountered, and I hope to continue to make that impression on people. A little love and light goes a long way.
What are your plans for the future?
My current goals are to be signed to a reputable modeling agency, start working more with hair, skin, and beauty brands that I love like Mielle Organics or Aveeno or Covergirl, and eventually transition to acting. I daydream about the moment I walk into a Target or HEB and see my image on their product display.
I am also eager to travel more. I hope to see Paris and Amsterdam within the next year. Fingers crossed!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/txmodel_kyra/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078708570045
- Other: https://linktr.ee/kyranabours?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=b931af5b-b258-4d06-9c96-3569ad2f0c14
Image Credits
Lawrence Inman, Marelise Roelofse, Bratchard Guy, Carlton Perkins, Justin Curry, and Jacinta Bernard
