We had the good fortune of connecting with Pharoah-Sadiq Graham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pharoah-Sadiq, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Atlanta, spent my childhood in Tallahassee, then moved to Broward County when I turned 14. My mother is from up north and my step father is Jewish so my upbringing comes with many influences- all of which helped shape who I am today. I was also raised vegan, and although I eat meat today, being raised in the city and country gave me a unique perspective on how I view nature and my place in it. Being out in nature has inspired me to become an entomologist because insects are not only hunters, gatherers, and survivors. They are one of the most beautiful, colorful creatures, and master creators on the planet. A large amount of my fashion/styling is derived from insects and their authentic style.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Initially I really wanted to fix my wardrobe and feel confident in my own clothes. So during the Covid lockdown, my creative juices began to flow. I began putting together multiple outfits a day trying to really develop my own style. I became obsessed and would ask for honest insight from my also locked down family. It wasn’t easy, I definitely got a lot of “ehh, we’ll still love you” comments before I got it right.

My next hurdle was learning what angles worked best with what outfit. Apple’s self-timing feature for their camera was my best friend and was used even when lockdown/curfew was raised. To say the least, I completely respect photographers.

Once I got the confidence, I began posting my novice photos on Instagram. From there, I practiced day in and out in my backyard; until my friends brought me with them to studio shoots. Even though I wasn’t promised any camera time or money, I always made sure to wear my best outfit.

I want the world to know that although I started my journey with no professionalism, I did not let that dictate my worth. So with perseverance and getting comfortable with being outside of your comfort zone, you will level up.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m currently enrolled at FIU as a student of Biological Sciences, pursuing to be an entomologist. I would definitely take my best friends to my backyard, where my parents are permaculture gardeners/farmers so although we live in the city, the wildlife and plants makes you feel like you’re in in a tropical oasis . We’d then head over to David Fairchild Botanical Gardens in Coral Gables. The scenery will completely make anyone marvel at the magnificence of the natural world- whom is the originator in fashion and beauty.

Since I was raised on eating real food, we would go eat at dope places that make homemade food, such as: Eucalptus Gardens in Wilton Manors, Tacos and Tattoos (Kendall/South Beach/Bird Road), Bake Shack (Dania), Sunny’s (South Beach & open 24 hrs whoop whoop!) The Hen and the Hog (Pompano)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are many people I am thankful for: first and foremost, my immediate family. They’ve always gave me love and encouraged me to know my worth. Secondly, almost all my teachers saw my potential and nurtured me toward staying focused. Lastly, my high school friends were pivotal in my interest into fashion. They accepted me for me and gave me ideas and opportunities to enter the world of design. Actually, I’d like to shoutout the whole creative community who showed me love: the photographers, videographers, stylists and designers, creative directors, etc; I am more than grateful for each of you. Lastly, I’d like to give an early thanks to any one who chooses to work with and invest in me, I look forward to a beautiful and prosperous future.

Instagram: pharoahsadiqgraham

Twitter: GrahamPharoah

Other: gmail: pharoahsadiqgraham@gmail.com

Image Credits
@themaseratimarc @amariswiththefilm @cerebral.cathedral @tallahnehru @spazgyal @elijahwestton @awquakiss @thebrainwave @nickxshotz

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