Check Out Feana Hodges Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Feana Hodges.

Hi Feana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started modeling at the age of 17. There has been a lot of trial and error. My first go-see experience was in my 20’s, located in Chicago and I had no idea what I was walking into.

The first agency I spoke with was Ford models and I was uninvited to speak with an agent due to my height. I met with 4 additional agents and they were all no’s. I can definitely say discouragement spoke loudly this day.

Before relocating, I gained the opportunity to audition for Cynthia Bailey in Atlanta. I drove 13 hours for the chance. I did not gain the opportunity but it was a learning experience. I can honestly say my full Confidence was not there.

Five years ago, I relocated to Arizona. I could not afford my moving truck at the time. I put everything that I could fit into my car and drove 29 hrs to Arizona. Thanks to my mother, stepdad, and fiancé, we made it. My parents followed us for the drive and I am so grateful still. I left everything behind including my furniture. I had nothing but an apartment and clothes when I arrived in Arizona.

After getting on my feet, I was selected by the young agency. I gained one booking in a year but it was a start. I never had an agency experience before. I eventually made my way to LA. I auditioned for Angel Brink’s fashion show. I was not selected but yet it was another learning opportunity in my eyes. I gained the pleasure of walking for “ The model experience “. I modeled for k Swiss and that was a boost.

As of 2020, I was selected to join the “ model know-how” program with Naima Mora. This was life-changing. I learned so much and my photos changed for the better. Our graduation was a fashion show for NY fashion week. I had the chance to walk for Society Gal. My designers were “ shop Jaunty” and “islynyc”.

Naima personally selected all of our accessories individually. It was a great experience. The pizza was amazing lol and I had a larger eye-opener to the model world. I met so many beautiful models and we still keep in touch!

At the end of 2021, I rocked my casting and I am now signed with priority talent. I look forward to my first booking with my new team! The wheels are rolling, the confidence is back, and I am ready to win.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My largest struggle was believing in myself.

I have given up and I have quit so many times. I expressed this to Naima before starting her program. I told her at the time, ” This is my last year trying”. Her exact words were, “ Take my classes and tell me if you quit after”

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently working for Venmo and Ulta Beauty. I work hard, and I specialize in customer service.

I am naturally a people person and I like to make others smile. I am mostly known for my modeling but outside of that, I am known for being the person you can truly count on. I am most proud of relocating and sticking it out. It takes a ton of tears and courage to start completely over.

What sets me apart from others is my natural glow, my encouragement, and determination, and I am a natural go-getter. I speak to strangers and compliment them as well. Many people have become so numb these days but I am an open book full of adventure.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is with my mom. she use to select a weekend and take my step sister (at the time) and I on a girl’s date. We would eat and go house hunting in a wealthy neighborhood.

We were not living in a great neighborhood at the moment. It was so inspiring to see so many beautiful homes and actually walk around on the inside. It was the full experience of picking a new home.

My mom always wanted a beautiful home and that is still my goal today to make that happen.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Fe_Dejanee
• Facebook: Ms. Hodges
• TikTok: @dejanee unique

Image Credits
@rkeartistry, @carotakahashimua, @hncboudoir, @hncphotoz, and @westeal_photo