We had the good fortune of connecting with Zoe Walker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zoe, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
My favorite affirmation is “Peace is in your feet. You have the power to walk away from or towards whatever does or does not serve your peace”. This affirmation has been a life saver for me in all type of situations. Whether it is a relationship, or a tough decision that needs to be made. If I go this way, will this bring me peace or chaos? Asking myself this question has been the deciding factor in all my situations over the past few years.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart from others is my ambition, gracefulness, communication skills, and my ability to network and use my resources. I believe in celebrating your accomplishments however, I do not think you should stay there for long. Celebrate, and then plan for what is next is what I say. I have a way of reflecting and assessing a situation to think “How can I do better?” or “What are my next steps or my end game?”. Considering these questions has always put me a step ahead. Was it easy? No way Jose! There were a few challenges, disappointments, and nos. The way I would overcome this is through prayer, trusting GOD, asking the necessary questions, and doing better for the sake of my goals. Staying consistent, and never slacking or giving up even when it is hard or you’re tired has helped me to overcome the challenges.

I have learned a few lessons along the way. I have learned to be clear on my own understanding of what I want and expect out of my modeling business and to plan around that. I have learned that when dealing with other parties to communicate your expectations clearly and in writing. I have learned to keep things professional, stay firm, but to also be pleasant and approachable. I have learned to do my research on people I work with and check out their credentials. I have learned not to rush any decision…. if it is an offer today, it will be there tomorrow, and the next week if it is for me. I want the world to know that modeling was a dream of mine as a little girl, and NOW I am following my dream. I have worked hard to get here thus far, and I am working harder to level up. This is not the last you will hear from Zoe Walker!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a pretty chill person, and I love to eat and a good vibe! I also love the outdoors when it is beautiful weather. Throughout the course of the week, I would take my friend to all of my favorite restaurants like Zwellis, Boricua soul, La Mala, Ju Ju’s, Dashi, Parizade, Asian Peony Bistro, Sushi O, Unscripted, Dames Chicken and Waffles, The Durham food hall, Cosmic Cantina, and my favorite local taco truck. I would make sure to spend one evening in Downtown Durham, and Downtown Raleigh if the weather is nice. I would take my friend to open mic nights on Wednesday at Little City Brewing in Raleigh, and on Tuesday at The House in Durham. I would have my friend experience live jazz music at unscripted on Monday, and live music at Boricua Soul on Sunday. I would take a day to visit one of the local trails and go hiking while enjoying the outdoors. I would also take my friend for a day trip to Wrightsville beach weather permitting. I would take my friend to some of our local homemade dessert and ice cream parlors. Lastly, I would check for a local event at the new Cary Park, in downtown Durham/Raleigh, or any other cool event going on.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I would like to thank GOD for without him, none of this would be possible. I would then like to thank my model sister Phy who has become family to me, and one of my close friends. She was one of the first people that I grew to in my development as a model. Phylicia has been supportive, loyal, informative, and a great friend. I want to thank Aleia another model sister of mine who has played an important role in my growth and development. I want to give a shoutout to my best friends Kim, Nina, and Tequila. Ya’ll are the real MVP’s, thank you for being part of my support team. I want to thank my model mother Fatima for putting me in her first fashion show and coaching me along the way literally on EVERYTHING as a model. Fatima has also become family, and her support means so much to me. I am appreciative for all the mentors that have helped me with photos, runway, confidence, and just the ins and outs of the model business. I want to thank my son for being my little assistant, supporting my journey and loving on me. Finally, I want to thank my family for being my cheerleaders from day one. I am sure I missed someone, and I am sorry if I did. I love you all and I appreciate the roles you’ve played in my modeling career.

Website: imzoewalker.com

Instagram: @imzoewalker

Youtube: imzoewalker

Other: Tik Tok: @imzoewalker

Image Credits
Marcus Moore, Dennis George, Lamont Pettiway, Emmanuel Cole, Gregory Jones

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.