Today we’d like to introduce you to Anitra Jackson.
Hi Anitra, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Roughly about 18 years ago, I was asked to attend a runway practice with my Godsister Thea Stephens. I was a tomboy, so this would help soften me a little. During this rehearsal, under the direction of Javan Reed, I saw young ladies walking, in heels, with so much style and grace. I knew then that it was what I wanted to do. Anything fashion, sign me up. Since then, I’ve been published in several magazines, participated in several high fashion shows in and out of Jax, and won several runway competitions in my time. But the journey wasn’t easy. The type of runway I knew wasn’t the typical European style everyone knew. I was not shaped like the average model. So I ran into a lot of No’s along the way. I made myself a promise. If ever given a chance, I will give others a chance to be themselves on and off the runway. I decided to pour into my vision. So I created a couple of businesses and started several events that ideally landed me where I am today. I continued my education in Organizational Leadership to be able to continue to lead effectively. The dream is to finally open up a fashion school that caters to the different minds that thrive in Jacksonville. I want my agency to be the agency that gave a chance when no one else did.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
What’s worth it will always take work in life. While in school, it was brilliant also to start filming my first lead movie. Yay! Here I am, at the peak of my career, soaring, finding my place when life happens. I shut down completely. If anyone knows me, he knows my kids are my everything. So I’m dealing with a small hurdle I know the lord will see me through. But that is another story for another time 🙂
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What do I do? A lot! lol. I am a model coordinator for many around Jacksonville. I am the behind-the-scenes guru, ensuring the models are taken care of, and the program runs smoothly and effortlessly. I also specialize in training models. I have held several model technique classes in Jacksonville that were surprisingly successful. Then I have my love for music. Music was my first love. I received my scholarship to my HBCU- Edward Waters University, to sing in the choir and ensemble at the time, under the direction of Dr. Shingles. I created a night around the holidays to honor the single ones. This usually is around Christmas and Valentine’s Day. It gets rough during this time, so I created a space where they can come and enjoy themselves and life with music, song, poetry, and all of my dry jokes. My event is called an Intimate Night with Lady J. My next event is on December 10; this will be my 9TH Intimate night. Despite what life throws my way, I’m proud of continuing all I set out for. My support for all is what sets me apart. I have done a lot for many people in Jax behind the scenes. My versatility is different.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
In my industry, I see my school branching outside of Jax. I see my Intimate Night, traveling to different cities, showcasing the many talents I book so near and dear to my heart so that they can be discovered. My vision is expanding far and wide to better aid in the dreams of many young girls all over.
Contact Info:
- Instagram:Â @nitrajackson
- Facebook:Â Nitra Jackson (LadyJ)
- Twitter:Â 1mzanitra
