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Leslie is one of the co-founders of the popular Black Models 2 Yahoo Club. BM2 has been making serious moves in inspiring new models and helping existing models in the business. The networking that is achieved in BM2 is a model for all clubs. The models range from inspiring to professional models and I have personally seen models in BM2 transform in a matter of months. If you are interested in modeling then BM2 is the place for you. Leslie has taken time out of her very busy schedule to talk with me about both herself and BM2. |
SC: Hello Leslie, how are you lady?
Leslie: Hello Kevin, I'm doing great! Thanks!
SC: Thanks for taking time for this interview, I know you got alot of things on your plate.
Leslie: It's no problem. For you, I had to take time out! ~:O)
SC: So how long have you been modeling?
Leslie: I've been modeling for 5 years now.
SC: What are some of the highlights of your modeling career?
Leslie: Well, my first photo shoot, that was one of my highlights. Not that is was something big, but it was my first. Doing a shoot for a hair magazine, I don't remember the name, but it was fun. Also having the chance to work with Asahi Beer as one of their representatives here in LA, that was pretty cool! And currently I'm in the mist of creating a Photo CD, so be on the look out! ~:O)
SC: How long have you been active on the net?
Leslie: I've been active on the Internet since the middle of 1996.
SC: Was placing your photos on the net a difficult decision for you?
Leslie: No, it was not. I though it was cool knowing that everyone in the world with a computer and the Internet would be able to see my pictures.
SC: Explain the importance of having a web-site and on-line presence for a model.
Leslie: I think it's very important. It gives you a kind of exposure you can't get unless you're on TV or on Billboards all over the place. If you market your web site correctly you can get lots of attention. I've gotten some really great job offers off of my web site. I think it's pretty important! But, like everything else, it's just a tool. You still have to do your real world chores. Don't just rely on your web site to do all the work for you. You have to make sure and follow up on all leeds, answer e-mails in a timely and professional manner, and all the normal stuff you would do if you didn't have a web site.
SC: For someone thinking of getting into modeling, what advice do you have for them?
Leslie: The best advice I can give to new models is to be realistic. It does not happen over night. It's a lot of hard work, not just lights and glamour. You have to do your research and homework, and really get to know the business. Don't get discouraged if things don't work out sometimes. You just have to pray to God, keep your head up, and keep pushing forward. And most importantly, be nice to everyone you meet, even if you don't like him or her. You never know who that person is, or who that person might know. It
would be a shame to lose your big break because you give someone a bad attitude in the past.
SC: You are one of the Founders of Black Models 2, correct?
Leslie: Yes, I'm one of the Founders of Black Models 2 club.
SC: Give us a little history about BM2, and it's creator the incomparable Trueimage.
Leslie: I was invited by Trueimage to join BM2 about a year ago I think. There were about 300 members at the time. The club has grown tremendously since then. Everywhere you look there is great talent! I believe BM2 is a great place to start if you're interested in becoming a model...
SC: What makes BM2 one of Yahoo's HOT SPOTS.
Leslie: I believe it's the fact that Models, Photographers, and Webmasters work together to achieve a goal. Everyone one is so willing to help each other. Everyone gives really great and useful advice, even the fans in the club. That's really important. That's something you can't find just anywhere. A place where people are willing to help you!
SC: Do you believe the popularity of Black Models (non-porn models) on the net is on the rise, or is it where it was a year ago?
Leslie: I do believe the popularity of Black non-porn models on the Net is on the rise. But, we still have a long way to go, but we're going there quickly!
SC: Where would you like to see the state of Black Models on the net as we enter the year 2000.
Leslie: I would love to see Black Models on the Net reach the point to where we're a house hold name, you know, like Cindy Margolis. That's what I'd love to see for Black Models on the Net!
SC: I know I am putting you on the spot, but name some models that you think are making serious moves on the internet.
Leslie: Ok... Amber Smith, Julie Ann, Cindy Margolis, Tracey Walker, Suzzette, oh and myself of course! (smile) But really, these are the people I hear about the most on the Internet. And they deserve their respect in their own rights. I wish that the amount of African Americans on the list would grow, and it will. We're coming out, so watch out!!!
SC: I know you have to run, but one more question before you leave, if I bought you an outfit, any outfit to take a picture in would you be so kind as to grant my request?
Leslie: Well......... Yes. (smile), just make sure it's tasteful! ~:O)
SC: Any shout-outs?
Leslie: Well, I have to give out a shout to God, without him I wouldn't be where I am today, actually, I wouldn't be. I'd like to give a shout out to moms, my favorite computer guy and site designer. You know who you are! Shouts out to Trueimage, Samantha, Kulada. And of course, shouts out to
everyone in BM2.
SC: Thank you for your valuable time Leslie, God Speed to you in all your endeavors.
To find out more about this very productive coalition of Black Models, Photographers, and Webmasters stop by Black Models 2.