SimplySxy

Tag: Entrepreneur

  • Entrepreneur & Filmmaker Layne Marie Williams

    Entrepreneur & Filmmaker Layne Marie Williams

    SimplySxy has the pleasure to interview Layne Marie Williams, filmmaker and founder of Women of The Now (WoTN). Learn about what inspires Layne Marie, how WoTN is striving to provide more opportunities for women in the entertainment industry and who she’ll love to collaborate with if given the opportunity!

    What inspired you to start Women Of The Now?

    While Co-Founding The Women’s Film Festival in 2013, the folks I was making movies with at the time in Philadelphia, PA – we called ourselves Women of The Now. WoTN has now grown into a well known 501c3 organization in Chicago, IL that provides training, resources, and community to womxn and gender non-conforming filmmakers.

    We were making films and we needed more chances to showcase, build, develop, you name it, our work. Wild determination and a whole lotta grit launched me into it all. I was 23 at the time. I don’t think I had any idea what I was in for! I’ve loved and been deeply challenged every moment of it. It’s made me who I am.

    How is WoTN working to provide more opportunities for women in the entertainment industry?

    We are in the midst of a really exciting evolution right now – we just turned three years old and are really focusing on best practices, our mission statement, and metrics in order to become more sustainable for the years to come. We have been living by the statement “Do less better” so what that means is strengthening and growing our core team, creating events that are both educational and provide chances to network, as well as building up the technological side of our Database and beyond (you can find this on our website!) where womxn and gender non-conforming filmmakers can join the database to be considered for future job opportunities.

    What is a typical day like for you?

    Ohhhh it really depends. Everyday sincerely looks vastly different for me. Right now with quarantine, I’m in Alabama with my mom and stepdad. I live in Chicago (though I am about to move to LA!) but I got stuck in Alabama because of COVID-19 after attending my little brother’s (what ended up being veryyy tiny) wedding. It’s sincerely been lovely though. If I had to be stuck anywhere, this is the place to be y’all. Truly. It’s peaceful. So much nature. It’s home.

    We have three dogs so I spend a lot of time hugging them LOL. I’ve been feeling like a wild wolf woman. I write, I drink cognac, I have lots and lots of zoom meetings and phone calls. My dogs will howl and I howl right back. I kayak, paddle board, I pulled two giant splinters out of my foot this week. I just started reading Irish fairy tales and this super spooky book a best friend recommended by the great Tana French for inspiration. It’s incredibly isolating, it’s glaringly glorious, it’s totally how I’m supposed to spend my time right now.

    Do you have any favorite quotes or mottos you like to use in life?

    “Little by little, one travels far.” -J.R.R. Tolkien

    If you could collaborate with anyone past or present, who will it be?

    Guillermo del Toro and Marilyn Monroe. So basically del Toro and I need to collab on a spooky sexy monster movie about Marilyn.

    Which flavor best describes you?

    Hmmm. It would definitely need to be pink and green. Probably some kind of lollipop flavored like cotton candy and sour apple.

    What tips can you give to women aspiring to go into the entertainment industry and what they should expect?

    Oooh this question is always a doozy because I want to give a different answer every time now…

    Have fun. Have fun with it. Because it is not always going to be fun. In fact, most of your days will not be fun. You will have interactions and meetings that are so hard. Remind yourself why you absolutely cannot stand the idea of doing anything else but this work. And that’s because it has the power to be wickedly fun. We get to play pretend, we roll cameras and make art for people to absorb and carry on into their lives…hopefully a little bit, maybe even severely, changed afterwards. We get to entertain! Remember the fun. Otherwise, do something else. It’s truly such a life of uncertainty, do something else if it doesn’t absolutely fill you up with ridiculous joy and merriment. That’s what keeps you vibrating.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Layne. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Oooh I love this question. This is a new one. I define sexy when I feel the utmost like myself. I think that LMW has a dirty martini in hand, is wearing something fabulous, and is probably laughing so hard she’s thrown her whole head back and on into the lap of whoever is next to her. Whoops.

    Follow the amazing Layne Marie on:

    Website: www.LayneMarieWilliams.com 

    Instagram: @directorlmw_

    www.womenofthenow.com

    WoTN IG: @womenofthenow.chi 

    Check out my films @scutly_movie and @veiledtractate on IG (they also have Facebook movie pages where you can stay up to date on any screenings happening near you!) You can also learn more about another film I directed “Golden Voices” at https://www.goldpointstudio.com/gps-films

    Images by Layne Marie

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Singapore Entrepreneur & Model Rathi Menon

    Singapore Entrepreneur & Model Rathi Menon

    Hi SimplySxy! First of all, thanks for the feature! Absolute pleasure for me too! Hi Everyone! My name is Rathi, I am born and bred in Singapore. I am currently a manager at F45 gym. I started off modelling few years back when I won the Miss Universe Singapore (2014) and somehow my interest transitioned into the fitness industry.

    Do you have any hobbies or interests?

    Hobbies include riding my bike. I own a super 4 and its been 10 years of riding now. My bike is obviously my mode of transportation but it’s also my hobby to ride to nowhere. Long rides at night is the best I can get out of the roads here in Singapore. Interests to travel to destinations that bring me close to nature.

    What is your proudest achievement so far?

    My recent trip to South America. It was a solo trip and, while in Peru I hiked up a few mountains, unprepared. It was one of the toughest things I have done, at an altitude of 5200 meters, the thin oxygen showed my lungs no mercy and the journey felt like I would never make it to the end. But I did and survived. Not only were the views beyond magnificent but I felt extremely proud of myself for this achievement, an unforgettable experience for me.

    Which food or drink can you not live without?

    Just water is fine, and I can’t live without carbs, I really can’t.

    Where do you love to shop from?

    I’m super random when it comes to shopping. Fashion is so versatile. I am not brand conscious. I believe if you have a sense of style and you know your own taste and what works best for you, you can pick the right garments and accessories and be dressed to kill.

    Which flavor best describes you?

    Rocky Road.

    If you could have a super power, what will it be?

    Energy projection.

    What turns you off on a date?

    Disrespect in any way, shape, or form.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Rathi. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Someone who is control of their life, a positive ambitious person who practices self-love and values personal growth.

    Follow the beautiful Rathi Menon on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rathi_menon/

    Images by Rathi Menon

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Malaysian Entrepreneur & Influencer Amanda

    Malaysian Entrepreneur & Influencer Amanda

    I’m Amanda and based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I am a Mechanical Engineering Degree holder and ended up being an entrepreneur. I always want to help more females to be financially independent with time and freedom.

    Where do you get your fashion inspiration from?

    I get my inspiration from celebrities or Insta-fashionists.

    When I see them dress in the style that looks nice and suits me or something that I would like to try it out, I will save the pictures and try to look for similar outfits.

    And of course, sometimes I will mix and match as I have my own style too. 

    On a scale of 1-10, how much of a shopaholic are you?

    I would say it’s an 8. Usually when I am in Malaysia, I will do online shopping on fashion, accessories, household, lifestyle products, dessert, groceries, even seafood and more. I can buy whatever that I need when it pops up in my mind or when the shopping apps show what I might like.

    For shopping in physical shops, usually I will do it when I am travelling overseas, as I think that it’s the best time to reward myself after some hard work and of course, most of the time I come back home with extra luggage.

    Is there any food or drink you can’t live without?

    China hotpot, I love it so much especially the mala soup mix with all my favorite ingredients. China hotpot is the meal that I must have every time before and after I travel instead of local cuisine.

    Drinks, I don’t have any special preference but if I were to choose one, I would say boba milk tea. I always want to try out different shops when I travel and compare the taste of the milk tea and the boba.

    If you could have a superpower, what will it be?

    Mind reading.

    It would be interesting to see how others think and it can have better communications between people as you would know what people are really thinking.

    Do you have any other hobbies or interests?

    Recently I am addicted to working out. I am doing HIIT, aerial yoga, boxing and I would love to explore more different workouts. I love the feeling of sweating and seeing my own body transformation time by time.

    When I have free time at home, I would like to spend my time doing some creative dishes and desserts, and if it turns out good, I would do more and send them to my family and my close friends. Share the happiness!

    I love to travel, I would spend my time looking at the travel posts or blogs to plan my next destinations, where to dine, where to shop, where to take nice pictures with nice sceneries and more.

    Which series or movie did you last watch and is it worth recommending?

    Forensic Heroes 4. It’s a Hong Kong drama with 30 episodes. Basically, the drama is about a crime solving team solving murder mysteries with some romance.

    I would recommend this drama to those who like mysteries, and the murderers in the drama mostly ended up being someone that I least expected.

    What is an ideal first date to you?

    For me there’s no ideal first date, do not need to plan it too intentionally, and sometimes it is best to just go with the flow.

    As long as it’s with the special one, a comfortable and not too noisy environment for both of us to talk, it would be great for me.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Amanda. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Being someone that is independent and self sufficient, having unshakable beliefs without being influenced by others easily. The one who has self love in themselves, a healthy mindset, a genuine smile by enjoying life to the fullest. Of course, a woman that knows herself well, chases after her dreams and respects herself to walk away from things that she doesn’t deserve anymore.

    In front of your man, you can be vulnerable and show him that you need him, and yet you can also take care of him and yourself at the same time.

    Being your best self, and inspiring others.

    Follow the beautiful Amanda on:

    Instagram: @amandao511

    Facebook: facebook.com/amandaoeats

    Images by photographer Danny Steyn

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Philippines Entrepreneur Yelim

    Philippines Entrepreneur Yelim

    Hi! I’m Yelim but I prefer people calling me as Yel. I’m Korean but I was born and raised in the Philippines! I’m 22 years old just finished Uni and I’m actually an entrepreneur here in the Philippines. I hold a marketing team in a travel agency company (@resortsbook).

    I guess I have to say that I am such a geek when it comes to art and candles, probably why I started my candle business in 2019 (@Olkcandle), a fast-growing local candle brand in the Philippines loved by many including actors and actresses in the country.

    What hobbies or interests do you have?

    I love painting! Making candles is part of my business but I love making them and designing all my candles.

    Is there a favorite brand you like to shop from?

    Well there isn’t any specific brand, but I do love shopping in any Korean indie stores.

    How do you like to spend your free time?

    I would hang out with my brother, maybe cook together or watch movies with him. Sometimes I take photos of my products and edit them for Olk candle’s daily content. (IG: @Olkcandle)

    What type of music are you into?

    I don’t think I listen to just one genre, it really depends on my mood.

    Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but have yet to find the time for it?

    Most of the time I get so busy with work I don’t get to travel with friends.

    Which is your most memorable travel experience so far?

    Ah!! That would have to be my trip to Portugal! I super love the place, the people and their FOOD!

    What turns you off on a date?

    Oh my…When the other person chews loudly.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Yelim. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Sexy to me is the ability of one individual to believe in themselves and achieving their goals.

    Follow the pretty Yelim on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsyelimm/ (@itsyelimM)

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsyelimM

    Businesses:

    https://www.instagram.com/olkcandle/ (Candle shop IG)

    https://www.instagram.com/resortsbook/ (Travel agency IG)

    Images from Yelim

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Checking In With Riley Sawyer…One Year On

    Checking In With Riley Sawyer…One Year On

    It has been a year since our first interview with Riley Sawyer, and while a lot has happened since then, especially in the last couple of months, we catch up with this talented music artist to see how she has been!

    I have been really good.  I can’t believe how much has happened in only one year.  I have expanded myself into different fields including the music industry.

    Photo: Jack Bolland -Toronto Sun

    You have your first single coming out, can you tell us more about it?

    I’m so excited to have my first debut single coming out with such talented artists on the track.  Rendezvous features JRDN, Young Stitch and my dog Baby aka Tiny Baby.  It is a seductive song, all about teasing (pulling in then pushing away).  I wanted to do a song people can play in the bedroom or even when they are feeling themselves to get in the mood.

    How much work went into it and what was the process like?

    The process taught me a lot, how having the right team around you can make magic happen.  I am so lucky to have had two amazing artists featured on my first single as they definitely made the process a great experience as they both taught me a lot, getting their parts done right away with a short deadline.

    Where do you get your music inspiration from?

    Being around artists a lot inspired me to make my own music, as I am always modeling in music videos/ promoting other artists music so I thought, why not make my own.  One of my best friends who is an artist, “Ricki Rich” gave me the confidence to get out there and do it after being with her during one of her studio sessions.

    https://www.maxim.com/women/what-riley-sawyer-wants-2019-3

    What was it like transitioning to music and do you still do any acting?

    The transition was smooth, as being in front of the camera acting and modeling, you must have confidence and believe in yourself.  When making music, I feel it is very important to feel that way as well.  Having that down already and having a team there for me to answer any of my questions made it a great experience that I am so grateful for.

    How did the idea of starting your own talent agency come about?

    After managing myself for so long and getting my achievements on my own, I realized more than anything, if I could help direct other models starting out and guide them in the right direction, it would mean the world to me.

    As it’s an industry that you must have a good team around you because it can be tough to be in on your own at times.  So being there for models who are as eager to be in the industry as I am, I decided to manage and help any way that I can to give back because that’s what I needed two years ago.

    What can potential or aspiring talents expect and hope to catch your eye?

    Talent that stands out to me are ones that have the drive and want it bad, as well as staying true to themselves, (not trying to change for anyone).  They must have a positive attitude and be able to handle responsibility, as being in this industry, it requires strong individuals who can handle what is thrown at them while giving direction to the next generation.

    With so many projects and managing your own business, do you have any free time for yourself?

    I do set time aside for myself as self love is extremely important in order to be successful in your job.

    Are there any exciting projects or plans you have lined up for the rest of 2020?

    I have so much I can’t wait for everyone to see.  For 2020 expect, greatness, strength, wisdom and always Hot and Trending!

    Follow the fantastic Riley Sawyer on:

    Instagram: @rileeys 

    Twitter: @rileysawyer_

    Upcoming Works: Single Rendezvous ft. Young Stitch x JRDN x Tiny Baby

    Featured image from Jack Bolland -Toronto Sun

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Multi-talented Model & Entrepreneur Steffie Harner

    Multi-talented Model & Entrepreneur Steffie Harner

    I’m Steffie Harner, software developer, freelance model and entrepreneur based in Tokyo, Japan. In 2017, I co-founded Startup Lady Japan, a community and mentorship service that supports female entrepreneurship in the Tokyo Area.

    I was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I grew up back and forth between Manila, Philippines and California. I am a dual citizen of the Philippines and the United States. I am technically a first-generation American, but because of my upbringing, I feel culturally somewhere in between Filipino and Filpino-American.

    When and how did you get started into modeling?

    I did a couple of modeling jobs in the Philippines during my teenage years, but I didn’t quite find my passion for it until I moved to Tokyo. That’s when I began doing conceptual photoshoots with other creatives and artists. I started incorporating dystopian and fantasy themes from animations and anime that influenced me growing up.

    I love the freedom in self-expression and storytelling that can be produced through the combination of modeling, photography and post-processing. I love being more involved with the whole creative process ー it’s quite fulfilling.

    When and how did you get into software development?

    When I was looking for female speakers for Startup Lady Japan events, I came across Yan Fan, CTO of Tokyo-based coding bootcamp called Code Chrysalis. I’d like to think I’m an open minded person, but seeing her broke my subconscious stereotype of what a “software engineer” is. Hearing her story inspired me to try this coding thing out too, and maybe inspire other girls to be curious about technical fields who wouldn’t be otherwise. I haven’t looked back since.

    What is your most memorable or unforgettable photoshoot experience so far?

    Summer 2018, I was hitting a low in my personal life, feeling disenchanted with modeling and living in Japan. I was ready to give modeling up to pursue a career in tech and was doing my “final” jobs and shoots. That’s around the time I picked up a project with Guillermo Alarcon, known as @future_vizion. He told me as artists, “we evoke emotions, like happiness through creativity.” I had such a positive, encouraging experience with him, I was convinced I could do both if I put in the effort.

    Is posing on camera a lot harder than it looks?

    With all routines, it gets easier with time and experience. When you first start modeling ー or posing in front of a camera professionalー most people feel pressured to perform as “expected”, don’t know how to let go of the ego, or be okay with trying something new with their bodies or facial expressions. But after each shoot, you learn what positions will get you the look you’re going for, you gain muscle memory, get comfortable with your body, and you can fulfill the role and expression of different characters as a model.

    If you could time travel, where would you like to go and witness?

    Feudal Japan, right before the Edo period. Albeit violent and chaotic, it would be a stark contrast to the peaceful environment that I live in Tokyo today and would help me appreciate the luxury of living here even more.

    Do you believe in any superstition?

    I’m not so superstitious per se, however I truly believe in the expectancy theory ー what you think and believe has a strong, direct influence on what manifests into your life. That is why I chose, to my best ability, to be kind and open to everyone I encounter.

    What do you not get about the opposite sex?

    I often hear this from men (and sometimes women) that “girls are complicated.” Sure, but all humans are complicated and complex. This is not gender-specific. Each human has a depthness and story beyond the superficialities you can collect about another human in an encounter.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Steffie. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    “Sexy” to me is being ingenuously comfortable with being yourself. Gracefully embracing your best traits, deepest scars, and everything that makes you unique. A true self-love, that encompasses flaws and all, can be stimulating, empowering and refreshing to the observer.

    Follow the beautiful Steffie Harner on:

    Website: steffieharner.com

    Instagram: instagram.com/steffieharner

    Twitter: twitter.com/steffieharner

    Youtube: youtube.com/steffieharner

    TikTok: tiktok.com/@steffieharner

    If you are interested in female leadership or entrepreneurship, check out Startup Lady Japan (www.startuplady.org), to connect with mentors and fellow go-getters. Stay in the loop with upcoming events and meetups on our community page.

    Images from Steffie Harner

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Indoneisan Entrepreneur Julia Mango

    Indoneisan Entrepreneur Julia Mango

    Hi SimplySxy, thank you for having me. And I would be happy to share a short story about me. So basically, I come from Tegal. Tegal is one of my favorite cities in Central Java. I lived there with my grandparents when I was two years old to 15 years old. And then I moved to Jakarta and lived with my mom and my step sister until 2011.

    From 2012 until 2017, I lived and work in Surabaya. And finally, I decide to move to Jakarta again. And I live in this amazing city until now.

    What is your proudest achievement so far?

    My proudest achievement so far is when I was nominated for the best broker a few times. I used to work for a futures brokerage company for 7 years as a broker.

    And then when I worked as a host at the American vape juice brand at Surabaya. So, this company make me travel a lot around Indonesia to host a vape event in all cities in Indonesia. Every day I was always sleeping in a different city. But that made me proud to get this beautiful experience. I met a lot of friendly and awesome people out there, we laughed together and share the joyful moments together.

    And now, I have perfect collaboration with RV Distributions to make my own brand vape juice. So far, we have four variant products, Julia Mango, Julia Loves Banana, Julia Mango Salt nicotine, and Julia Mango Pink Series. The sales are only in Indonesia, But I wish one day we could export aboard and our product accepted in global market.

    I wish I can do more good things to make another achievement.

    What inspired you to be a model?

    First, I like photography and art.

    Second, based on my experience, many women around me are not confident in their face and body shape (fat, skinny, short, dark skin, small nose, small eyes, etc.). I wasn’t confident as well because people bullying me that I’m tiny and some people call me ugly. Until the day I decided to be brave to join into modeling job. Even if that was so opposite with myself, but I want to be something.

    And I tell myself that I can leave my uncomfortable zone. So, I’m here now to spreading positive energy for everyone who wants to stop their insecurities.

    Because every woman is beautiful just the way they are. And we can be what we want to be when we believe in ourselves. Beautiful is not about the face and body, it’s about soul and mindset.

    No matter how expensive your makeup brand, stuff, and even plastic surgery but if you are not confident you will always feel that you are ugly. Because of you always insecure inside. But if you have high confidence, beautiful soul, and a positive mindset you will be beautiful naturally with your inner beauty and your positive energy💕

    Which is your most memorable photoshoot or modeling experience?

    At that time, I was asked to shoot a catalog for local makeup brands. It was amazing because I only had three hours to finish all the new products with maximal result.

    How will you describe a typical day like for yourself?

    I am an ambitious person. When I want something, I will never give up until I get it! I am a person who is super friendly, I can easily adapt to new people and places. I’m a bit of a perfectionist, I cannot satisfy if I don’t do something with maximum effort.

    I like humor, very easy to laugh just because of a small joke. I like listening music while I’m working, that’s helped me more to focus.

    By the way I like spicy food. I can’t stop eating spicy food. Eating spicy food is like falling in love to the wrong person. You know that’s hurting you, but you can’t stop (LOL I’m joking).

    Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but have yet to find the time for it?

    I used to like camping, since growing up I never did it again. Now I really want to get together with friends. See the beautiful morning dew on a high hill. Breathe fresh air, a gentle breeze blows around the trees.

    If you could time travel, where will you go and like to experience or witness?

    I would love to time travel to the future, I want to know who my future husband is so I don’t need to waste my time with the wrong guy.

    Or maybe I will see my future career and life, what happens in there and I will be ready to set plan A and B. Makes me easier in my present life to decide everything.

    What is the funniest or lamest attempt a guy has tried to know you?

    When I went on vacation to Bali with my crush, he wanted to give me a surprise in my bedroom. He closed my eyes with blindfolds. He sprinkled roses all over the floor and light a small heart-shaped candle. He forbade me to take off my blindfold.

    But because I was stubborn, I finally opened it before he allowed it. So, the romantic moment turned awkward and laughed because the surprise failed. And he did not give up to be romantic to me, then he carried me and he intended to put me in bed.

    But he accidentally stepped on a valance that hung down between 2 bamboos, then 2 bamboo stems collapsed on both of us. That was funny but thank you now, I learn how to be little bit romantic to guys.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Julia. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Sexy is not about big boobs and ass. Sexy is about being confident, and self-love.

    Accept all your flaws and your strength. Believe that you are sexy, so you are!

    Follow the talented Julia Mango on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliamango247/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/juliamango

    Please support Julia Mango YouTube Channel and also support Julia Mango Vape Juice Brand

    Images from Julia Mango

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Entrepreneur & Model Hayden Van Hulzen

    Entrepreneur & Model Hayden Van Hulzen

    Hello SimplySxy, it’s a pleasure to be speaking with you.  My online personal brand is @hayd3nm3rryn and professionally I am Hayden Van Hulzen.  As a marketing professional, I used my own personal alter-ego to develop a brand identity that I could test and execute my own marketing theories, and thus “@hayd3nm3rryn” was created.

    I am from Chicago, Illinois, specifically a town called Gurnee (yes, where Great America is) and I attended DePaul University in Chicago for my undergraduate degree and lived in a high-rise overlooking Wrigley Field. I will always love Chicago but I do consider Scottsdale, Arizona home now.

    How did you get started into modeling?

    When I was very young, I was already quite tall and thin and was involved in a variety of sports and extracurricular activities.  I was approached on several occasions to be involved in different runway shows and catalog shoots.  One of my first modeling gigs was for a dance-wear catalog.

    This was my first paid gig.  Modeling is a lot harder than it looks, but I quickly took to the style of movement while simultaneously posing to enhance the garments or items that I was showcasing.  A great model is truly a chameleon because the intention isn’t to actually outshine whatever you’re marketing, but to actually enhance and add value to it.

    From there I went on to model for agencies like Elite Model Management in Chicago (which evolved into Factor Women) and I walked the runway for a variety of local designers and other notable brands like CHANEL and AKRIS.

    I had a lot of opportunities to continue with my career in modeling, but I was trying to juggle an undergraduate degree and life at the time, and I chose my degree instead.

    I have since continued to do a variety of modeling, acting, and promotional based gigs as I find time in my schedule to enhance and play a role in the marketing flywheel that I have developed for my own personal brand.

    Which is the most challenging modeling shoot you have done so far?

    They all present different challenges but I think some of the most challenging photoshoots are the ones where you truly have to strip (both physically and emotionally) away all of the things that you are attached to as an individual to truly embody the art that is being captured by the photographer.

    Society is so afraid to see itself naked, and I mean this in every possible metaphorical sense.  The norms and mores of society are built off of fear and judgement; there is so little room for anything that embraces true art and the open-mindedness that it requires.  Art is intended to make you feel something and sometimes that can be uncomfortable. It’s through these different lenses that we widen our view, push our own limits, and force ourselves out of our comfort zones.  It is in this moment that we are able to are able to find new ways to look at the world that can be transcendent, revolutionary, and even life-changing.

    Do you have any hobbies or interests?

    I am an entrepreneur, so my hobby is my business.  But, along with this, I am a Mom first and foremost.  I am a friend to an incredible group of powerful women that uplift me on the daily. I spend time traveling (as I am able), attending various sporting events (NFL/NBA), and reveling in the Fashion and Cosmetics industries.

    If you could learn anything in this world, what will it be?

    I don’t want to get existential here but it’s almost impossible not to. Aren’t we all just trying to always find our meaning or purpose?  What is the meaning for our individual existence? We spend our whole lives trying to learn, find, and decide what that is, and we hope on our dying day, to have found that answer for ourselves and to truly be able to leave a legacy behind and rest in peace.

    What is the best compliment you have received?

    “I believe in you.”  This will always be the greatest compliment I have ever received.

    Which flavor best describes you?

    I feel like I’m like Sour Patch kids.  Originated in the 80s, timeless, my exterior is electrifying.  There is some discomfort in trying to take me all in, but you crave it regardless.  The people who are fans of me, well they are die-hards, and the ones that don’t really like me, well they still dabble from time to time.

    Because the sensation of taking me in, it’s flavorful, different, and one of a kind.  But if you can get past that initial layer that is a combination of so many sensations to process, you get to that sweet center that makes battling the plethora of emotions and responses you have initially, worth it.

    What do you not get about the opposite sex?

    I don’t understand why men are so conditioned by society to be afraid of partnership or commitment.  They see it as a shackle instead of a boost.  Too many times they try to control their own humanity when it comes to feelings and they ultimately sabotage their own happiness by feeding into this overly chauvinistic mob-mentality.

    Modern day relationships just don’t develop the same way.  Social media has given us far too much access.  We don’t have the traditional mindset of “if it’s broken, you fix it.” we’ve moved on to “if it’s broken, replace it” or even worse “it still works, but I’d like to try this new one they just released because it’s popular and fun” and the same is true of modern relationships.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Hayden. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    Sexy is a state of mind.

    Follow the beautiful Hayden van Hulzen on:

    Instagram: @hayd3nm3rryn

    Twitter: @HaydenVanHulzen

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hayd3nm3rryn/

    TikTok: @hayd3nm3rryn

    Snapchat: @haydenmerryn

    Images from Hayden van Hulzen

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Canadian Model, Actress & Entrepreneur Makayla Rogerson

    Canadian Model, Actress & Entrepreneur Makayla Rogerson

    Thank you for this opportunity! I am a teen mom and model from Niagara, Canada. I’ve been modeling for almost four years now, self managed. I have walked international runways and represented Canada in Miss Progress International (a pageant solely based around womens progress), I’ve also competed in supermodel Canada search and have had training with the Toronto Fashion Academy.

    Now I operate my own model and fashion house in Niagara, R House (@rmodelsm). I’m also just in the stages to launch my new project Safe Haven (@safehavenp) a project to bring humanity back into the community of Women and their children whom are children of domestic violence and abuse.

    How did you get started into being a model?

    To start modeling I reached out to a Facebook group, posted that I was interested in modeling. A student from Niagara College contacted me and gave me a shot! From there I continued to post on social media looking to build my portfolio. I was then connected with the local photography studio (That Photography Place) which unfortunately has closed down in recent years, however, I made a lot of connections and continued to network.

    What do you love about being a model and is it a lot harder than it looks?

    My favorite thing about being a model is the fact that I am the canvas of the art that is being created. I love being a part of something positive that people are actually interested and invested in. I also love to travel and meet new people at every job. For myself, modeling is a little harder on me, I suffer from scoliosis and a tear in my left ACL, but I don’t let any of that stop me from getting the shots!

    Which is a memorable or unforgettable event or photoshoot you have done before?

    I’ve had so many of these days starting with SMC and the first time working with TFA, but to top it all was my recent trip to Italy to represent Canada in an international pageant.

    Do you have any quotes or mottos that you always use regularly?

    There are a couple that come to mind. I’ve gone through a lot, although I’m young. I’ve come to realize this, “If you want something done, you’ve got to do it yourself.” It’s hard to depend on people these days, so don’t wait on anyone, especially if it’s in the way of your goal.

    Where have you always wanted to travel to but have yet to find the time for it?

    I would like to go to Greece! Absolutely beautiful architecture and scenery, I like to go sight seeing.

    If you could learn anything, what will it be?

    I would learn how to do my own hair and makeup, I sadly only know the basics.

    What is a lame or funny attempt a guy has tried to know you?

    No one has needed to try to get to know me, it’s easy to just walk up to me and start a conversation. To try to date me, a different story. The best one I can remember is when a high school friend of mine bought me a phone expecting something from it, even though I repeatedly told him that there’s nothing happening between us and to not buy me the phone…he bought it and I got a free gift!

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Makayla. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    For me, being sexy is more than just what you look like. You’ve gotta have a good heart too.

    Follow the beautiful Makayla Rogerson on:

    Instagram: ​@MakaylaRofficial 

    Facebook: @MakaylaRofficial

    Website: Www.onlyfans.com/makayla-model

    Images from Makayla Rogerson

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!

  • Hong Kong Yoga Instructor & Entrepreneur Lena Lo

    Hong Kong Yoga Instructor & Entrepreneur Lena Lo

    Hey the SimplySxy readers out there! My name is Lena, I’m from Hong Kong. I’m a flight attendant, a yoga instructor as well as developing an online platform for slashers and clients.

    What is your fashion style like?

    My day-to-day look is much more laid back and casual chic; think effortlessly distressed denim or cut-off shorts in a light wash, typically teamed with a simple T shirt, complete the look with a pair of heels or sneakers!

    Which 3 items are most important in your wardrobe?

    A classic biker jacket, distressed denim and a pair of ankle boots!

    Do you have any hobbies or interests??

    Doing yoga and diving. Planning a diving trip for the end of the year!

    Is there any food or drink you don’t ever take?

    I don’t take junk food, or any food or drinks that contain high sugar in a daily basis.

    What is the best compliment you have received?

    The best compliment I’ve received was how I’ve inspired my students throughout the yoga class.

    If you could learn anything in this world, what will it be?

    I’d like to learn hypnotherapy! I believe that our unconscious is by far the most powerful part of our mind and that hypnosis is one of the most effective way to help the mind accept and create the change we want in life.

    What do you not get about guys?

    ALWAYS trying to get with us, but simultaneously wanting a girl who isn’t ‘easy’. Probably the oldest story in book, but girls, you get me 😉

    Photographed By ZenZen Lau

    Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions Lena. One question before we end, how do you define “sexy”? 

    For me sexiness is a state of mind. It is when people are comfortable in their own skin, being themselves. Sexy should be effortless!

    Follow the pretty Lena Lo on:

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/leeeeenacc

    Website: www.illuminateyogastudio.com

    Upcoming Works: www.wisermatch.com (We link freelancers and clients, launching in Dec)

    Images from Lena Lo

    Like to be featured on SimplySxy? Drop us an email at editorial@SimplySxy.com!