Introducing our Alamuse of the Month blog series where we'll highlight industry creatives, savvy entrepreneurs, multi-faceted models, musicians, etc. Each month, we'll take the time to get to know them: their origins, their unique heroic journeys, and get an exclusive peak into what's coming up next for them.
To kick off our first feature, we couldn't help but swoon over one of our very own models. Meet, Janelle Fletcher (@janelle_fletcher) full-time model, entrepreneur of @feminessity, a recently launched undergarment accessories company specifically designed for women of color, and self-titled Mother Agent, for @fletchermodelscout, a scouting, developing, and placement agency. Eager to know more, we caught up with the ever multi-dimensional individual to get to know her a bit more. Read on.
First and foremost, tell us about yourself! How did you get your start in modeling and what motivated you to become an entrepreneur?
My name’s Janelle, I'm 22-years-old and I consider myself a model with a twist. I got my start in modeling because of my mom! I first started doing shoots and campaigns when I was an infant and I've been doing it ever since. As for becoming an entrepreneur, I think from becoming self-employed at a young age has motivated me to remain self-employed.
How does it feel to have launched your own brand (@feminessity) into the world and what fuels your creativity?
It’s an amazing feeling. To be transparent, launching @feminessity during a pandemic has been completely nerve wracking! It's a passion project and I have a great partner (my boyfriend) who's made it worthwhile. What fuels my creativity is definitely seeing and living through certain issues that others have to face daily. The ventures I’ve pursued are solutions to problems I've either experienced or witnessed for myself.
What inspires your entrepreneurial spirit?
Financial freedom and the ability to make time for myself, the people I love, and doing the things that make me happy is what fuels my entrepreneurial spirit. The ability to do something you love and earning those things in return is a blessing in itself.
You're self-assured and confident, where does that stem from and what do you hope to instill in others who look up to you?
Growing up in an industry full of rejection has been my advantage. I’ve learned what I bring to the table and you can’t take what people think personally. I hope that's something that others will eventually come to realize as well.
In addition to being a model and entrepreneur, you also have "Mother Agent" (@fletchermodelscout) added to your bio. How did that venture come about and what is its importance?
It’s always been a goal of mine to develop and manage aspiring models. What better way for me to be involved in an industry that I know best than to be hands on and share with others what I’ve learned over the years!
What can we expect from you next and what would you like to have achieved five years from now?
We’ll have to wait and see because I don’t even know (haha) but I do plan to continue growing my career and businesses. I’d like @feminessity to be a multi-million dollar business and my models to have successful careers.
How would you describe your style and what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I'd describe my style as simple and comfortable. But I actually live in sweats! I spend my free time relaxing at home with my boyfriend and dog. Nothing compares ♥️
Lastly, any ALAMAE pieces that are your favorite?
