#ILLUMINATE 02: Staying Consciously Aware with Sakinah Sela
Sakinah Sela is a LA-based stylist. We discussed representation and how to illuminate the black experience through fashion.
What do you illuminate?
I think I illuminate multiple things. I’m a black girl that grew up muslim on the south side of Atlanta. I think that I show girls like me that there are different avenues of success than what we’re exposed to where I’m from and we can occupy these fashion spaces.
Growing up I always had my own style and had a love for fashion. I already stood out because I wore a hijab. The first time I realized what a stylist’s job was, was seeing Derek Lee on “Access Granted-Aaliyah: Rock the Boat” . I wanted to be a stylist ever since.
This is what’s so powerful about representation. Seeing Derek Lee empowered you and now you want to empower others with your work. What was your first stylist-related job?
Exactly! as I’ve grown I truly have come to realize the importance of representation. My first stylist-related job was assisting on a music video for Wondaland artist: Roman Gianarthur. It seems so long ago but that’s the earliest that I can recall.
So many amazing black brands have been thrust into the spotlight this year. From Zendaya wearing all black owned brands on the cover of InStyle to Aurora James on Vogue's September issue wearing Pyer Moss. We're in the midst of a historic moment. How is it being a stylist during this time?
To be a stylist during these times is to be consciously aware of the role you’re playing. For myself, I’ve always wanted to shed light on the black experience through fashion. I’ve also been very lucky to assist stylists such as Eric McNeal & Jason Rembert who share the same values. It’s a beautiful time to stand in our truth and be unapologetically black within the industry.
Have you been able to find a sense of community in fashion? 
I’ve definitely found a community in this industry and I’m forever grateful for that. As mentioned, people like Eric McNeal and Jason Rembert have been essential factors in my growth. Having a community of people that believe in you even when you don’t believe in yourself at times, is a beautiful thing.
Is there anything you're working on now that you can share with us?
I can’t share at the moment but I have a few projects coming out, that I’m excited for the world to see. I’m constantly evolving when it comes to my styling aesthetic and pushing myself to go beyond the norm. It’s fun to watch it all unfold.