We’re looking forward to introducing you to Leila Nicolee. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Leila, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think a lot of people secretly struggle with comparison—especially in creative industries. Social media makes it easy to feel like everyone else has it all figured out, but most of us are just doing our best to stay consistent and authentic. I’ve learned that success looks different for everyone, and real confidence comes from staying aligned with your own purpose, not someone else’s timeline.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Leila Nicolee — I’m a professional model, mentor, and the Founder/CEO of Future Faces of Fashion LLC and Thee Icon Empire. My journey started as a model, but it’s grown into something much bigger: creating a platform that gives aspiring models real, affordable, and credible opportunities to learn, grow, and shine.
Future Faces of Fashion is more than just a competition — it’s a movement that empowers new talent with hands-on training, mentorship, and the exposure they deserve. What makes it unique is our focus on authenticity, confidence, and community. We don’t just teach people how to walk the runway — we teach them how to own it, on and off the stage.
Right now, I’m working on expanding Future Faces of Fashion and preparing for its first televised launch, which will open doors for even more local talent to be seen on a larger scale. My goal has always been to help others see what they’re capable of — and Future Faces of Fashion is the heart of that mission.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The moment that changed how I see the world was when I stopped trying to fit into everyone else’s version of success. I realized I didn’t have to wait for validation or permission to take up space. Once I understood that, everything shifted — the way I work, the way I lead, and the way I help others step into their own light. It taught me that real strength comes from self-belief, not outside approval.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell her to stop doubting herself so much — that every setback, every “no,” and every tough moment is shaping her into the woman she’s meant to be. One day she’ll look back and realize that everything she went through had a purpose.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the modeling industry tells itself is that there’s only one version of beauty or success. For so long, we’ve been conditioned to believe that you have to look or act a certain way to belong — and that’s just not true. The reality is, individuality sells. Authenticity connects. And confidence is what truly makes someone stand out. I’ve seen so many talented people dim their light trying to fit into a mold that was never made for them. That’s why I created Future Faces of Fashion — to show that there’s space for everyone when we stop chasing perfection and start celebrating authenticity.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I helped others believe in themselves — that I made them feel seen, capable, and worthy of taking up space. I want to be remembered as someone who used her platform to open doors for others, not just walk through them. That I led with heart, stood for authenticity, and turned my passion into purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.futurefacesoffashionllc.com
- Instagram: @theeleilanicolee, @futurefacesoffashion, @theeiconempire
- Facebook: Future Faves Of Fashion
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@futurefacesoffashion
Image Credits
Unconditional Photography
Moth Bros CO
