Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Sheffield
Anna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
If you watch old home videos of my family, you’ll find me jumping into the center of the shot—regardless of what else is going on—belting out a song or moving to whatever music was in my head. I was also adopted, the product of two families—one mom birthed me and the other caught me moments later. And although at times I’ve struggled to know exactly where I fit as the first black member of my large family, I see my love for performance as a beautiful blend of my nature and nurture.
Throughout the years I’ve learned to find my own voice and pursue the things that make me happy. I find joy in my family, my faith, music, fashion, Deaf studies, and modeling!
Because I had a talent for singing I started performing in a choir when I was seven, which morphed into solo opportunities as I got older. This helped me feel comfortable sharing myself with an audience and translated to my comfort in front of a camera. After living in Iowa, Los Angeles, Idaho, and graduating from college in Hawaii, Utah seemed like a logical choice to land because I had a built in support system from relatives, the Genesis group and the Debra Bonner Unity Gospel Choir.
Over time I found my artistic interests shifting to fashion, but I was again unsure of my place—though often told I was beautiful, the world at large sent a different message. But maturity and challenges have gifted me confidence. I was noticing more and more inclusion and acceptance of those of us outside the “norm” of the fashion world. I wanted to be a part of it.
While feeling bold one day, I decided to take a risk and contact a locally- based, size inclusive clothing brand to see if they could use a model like me. Not even two days later they invited me for a test shoot, and things snowballed from there. Ive learned so much from the people I’ve worked with.
Over the last two years I’ve befriended other models, booked additional opportunities, and found that I’m joyful and empowered in front of the camera.
I feel like that little girl again, jumping into the spotlight in my living room (only now I get paid!).
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
From a young age I’ve struggled with auditory learning disability, ADHD, dyscalculia, anxiety and depression. Whew! Learning in large classrooms was often overwhelming and frustrating for me. This often made me feel lonely and insecure.
I also struggled with body-confidence as I moved into my teens. I was already one of the few black children in both my family and my Midwest town. My weight felt like one more thing in a long list that made me stand out.
The combination of mental health issues and feeling different physically felt all-consuming at times. But I have learned so much about myself and my support system through these challenges. As someone who struggled with auditory learning, my mom introduced me to American Sign Language (ASL) when I was ten, and it has provided additional employment opportunities and been a serendipitous blessing because one of my nieces was born Deaf.
I’ve learned to lean into my creativity and artistic talents, and found a hugely supportive community through music.
I’ve been drawn toward the need for body inclusivity, which led to my exciting modeling opportunities, and taught me that I am resilient and brave.
I want to be the person to tell you that you’re perfect just the way you are. I’ve learned that regardless of ethnicity, mental or physical challenges, how you communicate, or the size of your clothing, each of us has a place in the choir.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
During the last 2.5 yeas I’ve had the privilege of modeling for these fashion brands: Piper and Scoot, OneLovedBabe, IvyCityco, JessaKae, ShopTaby, Kuulei.co, VoiceStraw, BodyloveBasics, MySistersCloset Boutique and a few others. It’s been so great to work with brands whose styles I love to wear and brands I respect for their vision. I love that these brands are meant for all shapes and sizes.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people would be surprised to know that I am somewhat introverted! For someone who performs and models as much I do, and is also friendly when I meet people in public, people might not guess that I am actually rather reserved and definitely need my alone time!
Pricing:
- current rate: $215/hr
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_annasheffield/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anna.sheffield.391/
