Photos: From J Cross Photography

Name: Gabriel Williams

Occupation: Economics Student

Homepage/blog:  Gabreil.Modelpage

Who is your Favorite model?
Wow. That’s a tough one. I guess I really don’t have a favorite. I’d like to learn from them all.

What is your favorite book?
I really like the “Ender’s Game” series; I’m a Sci-FI head.

What is your favorite movie?
Harlem Nights

Why did you become a model and what is your goal as a model?

A few years ago, I was doing nightclub promotions and a cousin of mine was just getting started as a photographer. He needed experience, I needed to make flyers and such, and we both needed more exposure so we got together and the rest is history. In the future, I’d like to do some runway, some print, maybe host a few events, the whole shebang really. 

How important is your hair as a model? Why do you choose to wear your hair the way you do?

If I couldn’t be a model with this hair, I wouldn’t be a model. I’ve always preferred my hair to be long so over the years I’ve tried many styles and techniques. Nothing really worked well until I finally decided to just let my hair do what it’s been wanting to do all along. When I let go, everything fell into place.

Photo by Tru-Photo 402

What does your hair mean to you? Is it just an accessory that compliments your personality and style or is it deeper than that?

It symbolizes dedication and perseverance. When I first started free-forming, it looked crazy. People judged. I had to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel and stay on course. Now it’s starting to pay off; I love my hair.  It’s definitely much deeper. It effects how I am perceived which largely dictates my interactions with people. My hair has become, itself, an entire facet of my personality.

How important is a woman’s hair to you? Does a weave, relaxed hair or a natural head bother you or do you have a preference for either of these styles?

I love a woman with long locks. That said, however, I’ve never had a problem with any particular hairstyle on a woman. As with anything, if it’s clean and well kept, I like it.

Is the texture of a woman’s hair important to you?And length? 

It’s all bout the individual. Not every hairstyle works for everybody. If it works for her, it’s cool with me. I remember when Erykah Badu was rocking the bald head; she owned it!

Do you feel that Black Hair is an issue? Why or Why not?

I think some people have issues with black hair. Some, who have it, find it hard to manage. Others, who don’t have it, find it hard to understand.