Conversations with Na’Ziya Lewis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Na’Ziya Lewis

Hi Na’Ziya, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I got started off with modeling and designing for runway shows with fashion show producer Adriana Lanice. My first fashion show was with her, as a model. And from there by the second fashion show I did with her I was welcomed in as a designer, also modeling in that one as well. While designing for her show, I received word that another producer was looking for a youth designer, and by recommendation from one of our 810 models, Kay, I was able to get connected to get in on that show as well, with Jacob Sidok. Both shows in the same weekend. From there, I started to have alot of other show producers reaching out for me to design for their events as well, even models reaching out to be apart of my lineups. On the music note, I recently started posting snippets of my songs in 2024. They were doing pretty good on my social pages so I decided to post them more often. From there, Adriana mentioned to me that she was also a manager for artist so, we were able to discuss a bit more and now she’s my manager as well! I had never been to an actual studio before to record my music, so my first session was with her.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely not always been smooth… but with the team that I have now, they help to take alot of that weight off my shoulders. When you get so used to doing everything alone, it becomes difficult learning to accept help so that was something I had to learn to let go of. Also on the note of entrepreneurship, especially as just a teen, when you’re funding everything on your own it can get a bit tough. Everything from travel fees, material cost, and also just going into personal life and necessities. Trying to balance everything, while making sure that you’re not losing more than you’re making is extremely important. Some of the struggles, however, just learning to remain calm and keep moving forward regardless of what hardship you may end up faced with, Sometimes in business, there are certain things that just may not pan out the way you visioned, and from there alot of people, including my old self, would be ready to throw in the towel or take a pause for so long, that once it’s time to pick back up, it’s a difficult thing to do. So just staying prepared, always being willing to try new things, and keeping a strong mind is something that’s greatly important.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a fashion designer, hairstylist, music artist, dancer, also taking on roles as an ambassador, mentor and public speaker. Mostly known for my music, designs, and work both on and off the runway. As of now, my main focuses have been on designing, hair, music, and mentoring. But I do plan to tap back into dancing and acting fairly soon. I’ve worked with students out in Nigeria for helping with class assignments, working as a mentor to teach entrepreneurship to students, and even 1 0n 1 design courses. I am also skilled in the area of event planning & set up so that’s something I also plan to showcase more of soon.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Music is one thing that keeps me going for sure, I listen to music when I work, when I’m relaxing, really all the time if i’m honest. That’s another reason why being a music artist is so special to me because it’s so intriguing that so much can be expressed through a simple song. Listening to the right music keeps me in a good mood

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naziyalanai_/
• Facebook: Ziyaa Lanai

Image Credits
Ziyaa Lanai
Azn Media