Age: 23
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York, Living in Milwaukee, WI
Measurements and height: 34D, 27, 41, 5’ 6”
What’s Your Sign? Capricorn
School?
Marquette University Graduate with a Bachelors Degree in Criminology and Law Studies
HHUCIT: What part of your body do you like the least and why?
There’s nothing about my body that I don’t like but I think it’s important to maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle. My problem is I don’t like to exercise but I’m trying to get into the habit of working out. In this business your body is one of your most important assets and you have to keep it looking good.
HHUCIT: Your ideal man looks like, acts like, and sounds like?
I like a man that is tall and has a nice body. He needs to be educated, honest, funny, and God fearing. I like a man that’s easy going but ambitious. I am a head strong and self sufficient woman so I need someone that is able to handle my strong personality. I’m kind of spoiled too so I would want a man that would do whatever is in his power to make and keep me happy.
HHUCIT: How long have you been in the modeling business?
I started modeling when I was very young at the age of 3 but I stopped for a while when I was in high school because I wanted to focus on school. I started modeling again about two years ago. Since I’ve graduated I feel I have more time to dedicate to the craft.
HHUCIT: What do you look to gain from the Modeling Industry?
I’ve always loved the modeling and fashion industry because I love being in front of the camera and being creative. Modeling is be a good way of having fun doing something I love while making connections with people that can help me with my career goal. I want to gain some sort of notoriety, not for the way I look in a bikini but for the positive changes I make in people’s lives. I’m looking to network with different people and work with organizations and charities that positively impact our communities.
HHUCIT: What sets you aside from any other model?
I am a highly educated and driven individual that strives for excellence but I think the thing that sets me apart from other models is my sincerity and willingness to always help others. I am a firm believer in the idea of treat others that way you want to be treated. In this industry you will find so many people that are willing to cut the next person down to get a job. People don’t like to share advice and resources and I think that’s sad. Everything you do always comes back to you. There are plenty of opportunities for everyone in this industry and people are always looking for something different. I like to help out fellow models or aspiring models because it really won’t hurt me to lend a helping hand or advice or knowledge. I strive to be the best at everything I do but I refuse to walk over anyone to get there!
HHUCIT: What’s your thought on the music video scene?
I think the music video scene is okay depending on what artists are trying to portray. I love hip hop but the industry is changing. It seems like all some artists want to talk about is how much money they have and then in their videos they have a bunch of cars, half naked women, houses, and jewelry. There is too much emphasis on material things and sex. I don’t understand why the women in most videos always have on a limited amount of clothing with their breasts and booties hanging out. I understand the idea that sex sells but there is way too much being flaunted and thrown around. I’m all for beautiful woman and nice bodies but there are better ways to accentuate the beauty and curves of the female physique. What kind of message are we sending to little girls and boys when every image of a woman they see is with her booty in a string bikini or breasts popping out of her blouse. As a people, community, artists and industry we need to be conscience of the messages we send to our youth and make sure our young people not only respect others but respect themselves.
HHUCIT: What would you like to be featured in?
I love the high fashion scene so I would love to be featured in magazines like Vogue, Elle, and Vanity Fair. I would like to do videos, commercials, print work, and even though I may not meet industry standards, I love to do runway. I’m not opposed to going work with men’s magazines but I don’t want to limit myself to projects that put all the focus on my physical attributes.
HHUCIT: What has modeling done for you thus far?
The biggest thing that modeling has done for me so far is helping to conquer my fear of public speaking and interacting with strangers. I didn’t like to talk to people I didn’t know or front of large groups because I used to get nervous and lose my train of thought. It forces me to get out and talk to people and promote myself and do things that I normally wouldn’t have done. That’s the best part of the whole thing to me.
HHUCIT: What are your Life Aspirations?
I aspire to be successful in everything I do. I want to inspire young people to get involved and work hard to make their dreams and aspirations come true. For little girls, I don’t want them to just look at me as a pretty face and think that’s all you need to succeed. Beauty is so much more than the physical appearance. You have to have a good heart and work hard for what you want. I want people to know that they don’t have to settle for less. With the new political administration it sets a great example for young people that they can do anything they want. I aspire to be a renaissance woman that is a master of so many crafts and is beautiful inside and out!
HHUCIT: What are your career aspirations?
Growing up I always wanted to be a lawyer and I attended school in hopes of achieving that goal. I have completed my undergraduate degree and law school is next. I am pursuing my dream of being a model at a time when I’m still young and have limited responsibilities. This is an opportunity to reach a wider audience and influence so many young people that look up to me and want to do the things I do. My ultimate career goal is to become a lawyer in the Corporate or Sports arena. And from there become a judge. As a lawyer I would like to open up non- profit law offices in inner city communities to help those that can’t afford legal representation. I want to make a difference in people’s lives and help in any way I can. In my success I want to inspire others to strive to make their dreams come true and make the best out of any situation.
HHUCIT: What’s up next for RayeLilley?
I just completed the Hip Hop U-C-IT 2009 Calendar so people can check that out but for now I’m getting ready for the Trina “Lookin’ for the Baddest” Model Search!
HHUCIT: Where can your fans/or people interested in hiring you reach you?
I can be reached at [email protected] and you can always check me out at modelcoast.com/rlilley or myspace.com/ladylilley … Website Coming Soon!!!!
HHUCIT: What would you like to leave with your fans or The Hip Hop U-C-IT’s readers in this interview?
Well, one thing I would like to leave people with is a personal motto that I like to live by, “To try is to fail.” It’s something that my father used to tell me all the time growing up. It’s to say that when people use the word ‘try’ they are just leaving themselves a way out. They are avoiding any real commitment or obligation to complete their tasks. I believe that when someone really wants something and they go for it whole-heartedly, there is no reason they shouldn’t accomplish their goals.
Thank You for Your Time!