Samiel Woodberry of Los Angeles on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Samiel Woodberry. Check out our conversation below.

Samiel, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I like to think I’m walking a path, one that’s been set by God. I really do believe that every step, even the ones that feel uncertain, are part of something intentional. Now, I’ll be honest… I definitely have my ‘wandering’ moments. You know, those times where I start exploring side “quests” that look exciting or where I just need to slow down and breathe. But somehow, God always redirects me back to center and back to purpose. So yeah, even when I wander, I’m still walking the path… I just might be taking the scenic route sometimes!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hey! I’m Samiel, a runway model, creative, and business owner who believes that faith and purpose walk hand in hand. I’m a big believer in Christ, a proud goal-setter, and a family-loving introvert… who somehow always ends up being the one making everyone laugh.

Modeling wise, I’ve been blessed to walk in both Los Angeles Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, and to have my work published several times — even internationally, which uh still feels surreal! Lately, I’ve been working on transitioning from strictly runway into more modeling work with brands for print and, eventually, commercial projects. It’s been exciting exploring new sides of myself and my craft.

Beyond modeling, I’m building my own home decor collection called Be Still Home, where every piece includes at least one natural element. Currently, I’m experimenting with sand, which has been such a fun and grounding process.

People often tell me I have a unique way of seeing the world — probably because I’m naturally quiet and reflective. Here’s a secret though.. I live with high-functioning depression and acute stress disorder, but honestly, I see it as something that deepens my empathy and creativity while strengthening my patience. It’s made me more intentional about finding beauty in small things and using my gifts to inspire others who might be fighting their own silent battles.

At my core, I’m just someone who wants to remind others that you can walk through darkness and still shine bright — maybe even brighter — because of it.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My dad — without a doubt! He’s always seen something in me long before I could fully see it myself. From my work ethic to believing in my dreams, he’s had such a big influence on who I am. Even while serving overseas in the military and missing birthdays or milestones, he was still present — listening, encouraging, and shaping the way I see hard work and faith.

When I was younger, I’d talk about seeing myself in a store window one day or owning my own shop, and instead of thinking I was dreaming too big, he’d tell me to go for it. Whenever I start to doubt myself, he’s the one who gives me those pep talks that pull me back together — reminding me of who I am and what I’m capable of. I’ll never forget joking once about getting my custom ashtrays into a smoke shop with him and then three years later it happened. I was immediately reminded by him how I had spoken it into existence.

My dad has been my quiet motivator — the one who believed in the version of me I was and still am learning to see.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You are enough babygirl. You’re brilliant! It’s okay to be more than what others limit you to, or at least try to. Despite what looked like failure, the scars, overthinking, and always having to be the strong one… I’d want her to know that every challenge, every self-doubt, every tear was shaping her into someone resilient, creative, and full of purpose.

And most importantly, I’d tell her: You’re going to grow into someone who not only survives but shines — who inspires, loves deeply, and leaves a mark in ways you can’t even imagine yet.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, it’s all me. I try to keep the public version of myself as authentic as possible. I don’t post every day because I’d rather live in the moment. Sometimes I get overwhelmed and need to go a little ‘ghost’ to recharge, and I think that’s okay.

What I do share comes from a real place, whether it’s a positive quote that’s motivating me, verses/messages from God, or a reminder that not every day is perfect. I believe in being transparent, not performative. The only part of me the public might miss is my sense of humor… I’m actually really funny once I’m comfortable!

So, yes, what you see online is me — just maybe the calmer version of the girl who’s cracking everyone up behind the scenes.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, role, and possessions, what would remain? Easy! God and I. My heart, my mindset, and the care I have for others. I just want to leave the world and its people a little better than I found it, giving perspective, encouragement, and a bit of love along the way.

Thank you so much for having me and allowing the space for me to be open and inspire.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.bestillhomecollection.com
• Instagram: samiel.tiyana
• Other: Business instagram: Be.Still.Home

Image Credits
Be Still Home Decor
Rashad Calhoun
Fleethegoat
Merakhi