Actress, model, and artist Izabellah Rae Diez is defining her own path in the entertainment world, trading external validation for internal fulfillment. In this candid Q&A, the multi-hyphenate star opens up about the biggest personal hurdle she faced—overcoming self-doubt at Fashion Week – and how her days as an All-Star Cheerleader became the perfect “boot camp” for a high-pressure career. Diez reveals why embracing her multi-faceted nature is a source of strength and shares the pivotal moment she realized her calling was to share her authentic voice with the world.
Q: Of all your career achievements so far—from Deadly Fiancée to Fashion Week—which one represented the biggest personal hurdle you had to overcome?
A: Fashion Week was definitely my biggest personal hurdle. I’ve always had a passion for fashion, but stepping into that high-pressure environment felt like standing on the edge of a cliff. I was surrounded by seasoned professionals, and the self-doubt was real. But I learned to embrace that fear, channel it into confidence, and trust in my preparation. It was a transformative experience that taught me the value of self-belief and the importance of focusing on my own journey rather than comparing myself to others.
Q: What is the main difference between the success you sought when you started your career versus how you define success now?
A: When I first began, success was all about visibility, getting roles, receiving invitations to glamorous events, and being recognized for my work. But over time, my perspective shifted. Now, success is more about the joy and pride I derive from my craft. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about the growth I experience and staying true to my artistic vision. I’ve learned that fulfillment comes from within, not from external validation.
Q: How do you feel your early work as an All-Star Cheerleader prepared you for the high-pressure environment of the entertainment industry?
A: Being an All-Star Cheerleader was like boot camp for the entertainment world! It taught me to thrive in high-pressure situations and perform with confidence in front of large audiences. Every routine pushed me to break out of my comfort zone, honing my stage presence and teamwork skills. More importantly, it instilled in me the ability to express myself authentically, even when the spotlight is on. Those experiences laid a strong foundation for my career, helping me stay composed, motivated, and confident no matter what comes my way.
Q: What is one misconception people often have about navigating a multi-hyphenate career in the arts?
A: A common misconception is that juggling multiple roles—like acting, modeling, and creating—means you’re unfocused or indecisive. In reality, it’s quite the opposite for me. Each facet of my career is interconnected, feeding into my growth as an artist. Being multi-hyphenate isn’t about being scattered; it’s about embracing curiosity and creativity, allowing me to explore all the vibrant dimensions of who I am. It’s a beautiful mosaic rather than a scattered puzzle.
Dress: LC Couture / Liliana Mijangos
Q: If you could magically go back and revisit one specific day in your career to fully soak in the experience, which day would you choose and why?
A: I would relive the day I performed my own songs for the first time. The nerves were overwhelming, yet the moment I started singing and saw the audience connecting with my music, it was pure magic. Everything else faded away, and I realized this was my calling. If I could revisit that day, I’d want to linger in the moment—the energy of the crowd, the dazzling lights, and the exhilaration of sharing something so deeply personal. It was a pivotal experience that shaped my artistic journey.
Q: What’s the most valuable piece of professional feedback you’ve received that has fundamentally changed the way you approach your work?
A: One of the most impactful pieces of feedback I’ve received is to never let external opinions dictate who I am. Each of us brings something unique to the table, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to creativity. This advice has been a guiding light, reminding me to honor my individuality and remain authentic in my expression. It’s empowering to know that my voice matters, and I carry that lesson with me in everything I do.
Q: How do you manage the feeling of moving quickly from one major project to the next without suffering from creative burnout?
A: I prioritize moments of reset, even when the pace picks up. Whether it’s journaling, soaking in music, or just hanging out with friends, these little pauses are essential for recharging my creative battery. I’ve also come to appreciate that creativity doesn’t always flow on command; it can be a gradual process. Nurturing my mental and emotional energy allows me to stay inspired and excited rather than overwhelmed. It’s all about balance and self-care!
Q: How can we find you on Social Media?
Instagram: @izabellahraediez
TikTok: @izabellahdiez
YouTube: @izabellahrae
