Ebony Clark

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Congratulations! How does it feel to be America's Next Natural Model ?
Fantastic! It really is a great honor…especially because I have given so much. especially having put forth so much effort. That it pays itself back so much is truly priceless!!!

How did you hear about the election?
A friend of mine told me about the election and sent me the link. I then went to http://Going-Natural.com to get more details.

How did you come to the decision to participate?
Another good friend of mine gave me a gentle push. I was a little hesitant at first, but I was very quickly reminded of a promise I made to myself to challenge myself more and do more for MYSELF! LOL! It became clear that I indeed had to participate in such an important Miss pageant that promotes afro hair.

What was the hardest task? And which was the most fun?
The hardest tasks were 4 (makeup and jewelry) and 5 (Valentine's Day) because my grandmother had just passed. I was feeling a little overwhelmed with everything - work, trying to get ready to travel, the election, trying to figure out who was going to take my photos at the last minute before I got on the plane, trying to upload photos while being in California and trying to be with my family at the same time, coming back, trying to get my own life back in my own time zone while also grieving.
The most fun task for me was Task 1 (the introductions). I really enjoyed the first one because the competition was brand new!!!! I also had all the time in the world because Georgia was closed for almost a week due to snow and ice. My sister and I had all the time to take as many pictures as we wanted during the day. First impressions are so important and if done well they can really attract a lot of positive attention.

I know it was hard for you when your grandmother passed. How did you get through it?
I knew I had made a commitment to the race. Just because you had a little setback is no reason to back out completely. Even though it was hard, I had to remember that I had made a commitment to complete the entire event, no matter what.
Who were your photographer and makeup artist and how did you approach the tasks?

My photographers were my sister Tenisha and my friend Pegah. I did my own makeup for each task. I approached the tasks as follows: Make sure you understand each task completely. If you don’t, ask questions – even if it seems unnecessary – and do your best. To be honest, I did care about the judges’ opinions, but it wasn’t my biggest concern. After watching America’s Next Top Model, American Idol and other shows like that, I realized that each judge is an individual.

So what one person likes, another person doesn't necessarily like. From a young age my mother taught me that you can't please everyone, so I didn't even try. I did MY absolute best, I stayed true to myself. I would have loved it if the judges were happy, but if they weren't, that would have been OK too. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

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Did you make any special preparations for your hair?
I just made sure it was trimmed from the start and did a good conditioner weekly (as I normally do).

What was your best photo shoot?
Without a doubt, Jamaica Mango Lime! I only say this because I had so much fun and everything went so smoothly that week. The combination of all the good elements gave me fantastic energy for the photo shoot. AND my friend and photographer for that particular shoot, Pegah, kept me laughing (I am usually a smiler)!

What did you learn from the election?
I have learned that it is never too late to expand upon the qualities and knowledge you already have… Even at this age of over 30, I have found that I can add more layers of patience to the patience I already have. It felt amazing to increase my endurance. I understand now, more than ever, HOW important it is to stay true to yourself.

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Which products do you prefer and why?
That's a great question. I used to be a bit of a product junkie (like most people who are just starting to go frizzy) but I was never the type of person to blindly follow any product or line. So far I've found that I love almost everything from Giovanni ., One 'N Only Argan Oil , Jane Carter Solution products , Cantu Shea Butter, Pure Shea Butter , Virgin Coconut Oil, 100% Black Soap (for lightening only), and now Going Natural .

The most important thing these products have in common: My hair loves them. I love anything that has the best ingredients and the most natural, light and pure scents.

What do you do in daily life and what are your next steps?
My profession is real estate agent but I am an artist by nature. I have been running my own photography studio for a while now. I am also a freelance jewelry designer. I used to sell to boutiques and specialty stores. The competition has rekindled my interest so I am preparing to do that again. I will continue to challenge myself and raise the bar for myself personally and professionally in the future. Hopefully this will take me to my next best destination… wherever that may be 😉

Would you like to add anything else?
I want to tell the other models that I really enjoyed being part of this event with them. I only spoke to a few of them personally, but somehow I felt a connection with each of them. They are truly beautiful and inspiring! Thanks to the jury for taking the time to respond.
Thank you Mireille for organizing something so beautiful. .. I am very grateful to all who supported me and voted for me. Words fail to express my gratitude. I appreciate ALL the love, wishes, prayers, positivity and support. Thank you!!!! I wish you all love, happiness and peace!!

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