We are kicking off Women’s History Month with our cover star, the talented Krystal Garner, a New York native with beauty, brains and immeasurable talent. You may recognize her as the winner of BET’s ‘The Grand Hustle’ (Season 1) reality TV competition. Krystal competed against and beat 15 other competitors for a grand prize of $100,000, and an executive position at an entertainment empire.
Krystal is more than a grand hustler. Some of her other accomplishments include philanthropy, acting, modeling, managing events, and being an on-air personality. Krystal is an influencer leaving her mark with her talents, and we will continue to watch her in 2021 and beyond.
We recently caught up with Krystal to talk about how she has been managing her brand throughout the pandemic, her unique background, and upcoming projects.
Q: How have you been managing your brand during the pandemic?
You have to have the ability to adapt to change. Grateful I have always had this mindset. The world went virtual and so did I. Not only with my brand but also with other brands I manage. Post-quarantine I haven’t stopped moving, I’ve added more personal opportunities to the plate and I’m ready to start serving the world.
Q: You have a very diverse talent background from acting, modeling, event manager, on-air personality, marketing to philanthropy. Which role has been your favorite and why?
Philanthropy has been my favorite role because it’s the most fulfilling. Having the opportunity to give, motivate and help others to be their best self, warms my heart.
Q: We have seen your work as an on-air personality. Can you please share with us how you prepare before going on the air?
Before any opportunity and even before my day is started, I pray. I put positive energy into the atmosphere. Normally I get into a zone right before by reviewing notes, any ROS or even on Google just to make sure I’m most up to date on any topics of discussion. Reminds me of how I get before a basketball game, extremely focused.
Q: What went through your mind when you saw your billboard in Times Square – New York City?
Funny thing is I didn’t know that it was going to be in Times Square! I remember getting the call
from a friend and I was in disbelief. Back then it wasn’t easily accessible to get on a billboard out there so I made them go back and take a picture to send to me. When I saw it, I teared up and got dressed to go see it myself. Every model in NYC dreams of seeing their face up there. To be able to show my family that dreams are real and reveal to my friends that with patience all things come through was an epic moment in itself.
Q: Any other memorable career highlights that you would like to share with our readers?
Winning “The Grand Hustle” on BET – this opportunity showed the world who I’ve always been. I like to say it showcased my expertise I often forgot I have in a “Slumdog Millionaire” fashion.
Q: Have you experienced any setbacks in your career as a young Black woman?
I like to look at the setbacks as a sign to me not being where I needed to be in life yet. Of course, being a black woman in the industries I’ve been in had its negative moments, but I turned them into positives.
Q: What did you learn from your setback?
I learned that being a young black woman is my superpower. I’ve worked in every position and worked my way up in so many industries that there is no way you can deny my expertise.
Q: What advice would you give to upcoming multi-talented women who are looking to maximize their talents?
The best advice I can give is to never let anyone tell you’re doing too much. You are a Jane of all and master of all. You can do everything you want to do, and you give yourself the best advice.
Q: What is next for your career?
Up is what’s next. I have a few personal projects I’m working on to continue to scale. I know there’s a young girl out there looking, and I want her to know she can do it all.
Q: How can people connect with you for business opportunities?
Email is my best friend – info@krystalgarner.com
Cover photography by Island Boi Photography
