Meet Trailblazer Abena Antwiwaa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Abena Antwiwaa.

Abena, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I wanted to be a stylist, I know fashion so well and I have such a clear point of view. I got my first job at Jcpenny and I got so familiar with the clothes, the fit and the designers they carried. I remember sitting down one day planning my next move, I wanted to put together a portfolio of my work. I went on Craig’s list to look for a photographer and I met my photographer Shaun Asakura. Shaun and I discussed me just styling different people and shooting them but then he was like why don’t we shoot you? I told him no I wanted to showcase my work on other people and he thought the better idea was for me to be the muse so I went along with it. That is how the blog started initially.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t been easy at all. It’s hard to stand out because the market is so saturated. Every girl wants to be a blogger. I’ve given up multiple times but I genuinely love it so I keep coming back for more. To the young women starting out just know that there will always be challenges but if you love and believe in what you’re doing, you will keep going.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am conflicted because I don’t necessarily like the word “influencer” but I am definitely one. I want to teach people that there isn’t just one standard for beauty. Beauty comes in many shapes, sizes, forms, color and etc. I am known for my relaxed, edgy, cool and barely-there style. Effortless! That is a word I can get behind. I am proud because I’ve faced so much adversity in life and my story means something. I have created my own narrative. I am also working on a clothing line called “Ms. Photogenic” which is launching very soon!

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
I’ve been really into podcasts lately! I love Joyce Meyer, she speaks to my soul. I’ve been meaning to read Mrs. Obama’s book, it’s like I just want to know. I follow countless fashion and style blogs and it’s too many to actually say. I use women just like myself as my resource. Talented, brilliant, beautiful and black. They usually know what’s up and they’ve been a great help to me.

Contact Info:

• Phone: 720.277.2593
• Email: info@stylebyabena.com
• Instagram: @stylebyabena @ms._photogenic
• Facebook: Abena Antwiwaa

Image Credit:
Shaun Asakura, Terrance Perah, Sanjana Elina

Getting in touch: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.