Interview With Zaj Ledae
Ethnicity: Black
Age: 22
Profession: Lifestyle Blogger, Youtuber, and Student
Current Location (Country): Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Instagram Username: @Zajeadel
What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
I think the the best thing that has ever happened to me was getting the opportunity to study abroad in 2017 on scholarship. I always wanted to travel, but I believe you have to do things before you really know they’re for you.
I have not been the same since living in Italy for 4 months. It has changed me for the better in so many ways. I now want to do things like renovate a school bus and take it cross country and backpack through South America.
I feel empowered to do these things now because of my time abroad. I have that courage and belief in myself.
What is your favorite part about being a woman?
My perspective that I have on the world. I believe that how we are raised and the culture we are raised in really impacts the way we look at things. I feel like I wouldn’t be as analytical or conscious about certain things if I were a man because I wouldn’t have to be.
I like those qualities about myself. I also feel like I can’t separate my blackness from my womanhood either. I am a black woman and that plays a large role, again, in what has shaped me and how I see the world. I wouldn’t want to think any different than I do or be anyone else.
Who is your favorite role model?
I wouldn’t say that I have a particular role model. I’ve been doing this thing for a while where I do “intentional following” on social media. Most of the accounts I follow are of women- specifically- doing really cool and innovative things.
They run their accounts like blogs, giving weekly insights and inspirations. A Lot of what I have learned about myself and the woman I personally want to be is from the education that these women share. Some of my favorite accounts are: @watermeloneggrolls, @halfietruths, Brandi Chantelle, and badass mother birther.
What is your dream in life?
My dream is to be a world traveler, renowned author/screenwriter, and philanthropist. In my dream life, I speak at least 4 languages, own a completed renovated school bus, have a house in the woods I built from the ground up, have a show on HBO, own a school, and travel at least every two weeks. It sounds like a lot, but it’s the absolute perfect life for me. It is where I see myself in 20 years.
Are you following your dream?
I am following my dream. I’m in my last semester of college and I’ve already done or began the building blocks of what I set out to do. I feel good about it- having already traveled a bit and starting my blog and youtube channel.
I am also drafting my first book right now.
Have you ever been published in a print or digital magazine before?
I’ve been published a few times with my writing but this is my first time ever being personally interviewed for something like this.
It’s kind of crazy… the idea that someone somewhere cared enough to ask ME these questions and put my pictures up on their site. I’m honestly really grateful and humbled by this experience.
What’s your favorite clothing brand / store?
I love Asos and Urban Outfitters, but can I always afford it?
No. A lot times I like to window shop those places and recreate looks from what I find at the thrift store.
What is your “happy place”?
My happy place is my solitude. I love being alone. When I’m alone there is no social pressure or pressure in general to engage in anyway.
It’s a time for me to do whatever I want. I especially like taking myself out to sometimes walk through the city or by water. I like taking myself new places just letting my eyes and mind wander. I think everyone should take time for themselves.
It doesn’t mean you dislike or don’t want to be around anyone. It’s just important to have that time to just be.
What’s most important to you?
Healing, education, and self love.
What’s the worst line a guy has ever used on you?
(Inside of a uberpool, my driver says to me): “I think I’m going to keep you in my car all day just to look at you. You’re so pretty”.
What is your dream car?
AN ALL BLACK MATTE TESLA WITH TINTED WINDOWS!!!
I actually have a dream to own three cars: a classic cherry red drop top convertible, a Tesla, and a pick up truck. I see myself using all of these cars for specific functions. I want the Tesla for everyday use. The convertible in the summers and the pick up for construction and moving purposes.
Have you ever traveled out of your home country?
Yes! As mentioned, I studied abroad in Rome for 4 months. While there I traveled to Naples, Florence, Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Venice, Paris, and Amsterdam.
My favorite experience was in Amsterdam. I was so full of joy there. The food was incredible. I didn’t know that it was so diverse there and how open the people were.
I was only there for 3 days but I felt transformed when I left. I want to go back when it’s warm and spend a summer there one day.
Are you a tom-boy, girly-girl, or both?
I am fluid person. I don’t really identify with either of those terms. My style and general persona just depend on how I’m feeling that day.
Do you have a favorite Kardashian sister?
I’m not a fan of family in general, so I don’t have a favorite sister. If I had to pick I would say Saint West. He’s so adorable and I would love to babysit him.
Have you ever gotten plastic surgery?
I’ve never had plastic surgery. I do want to have it in the future though. I’ve been thinking about getting a breast augmentation since high school and plan to do so whenever I can afford it.
What do you want to be remembered as?
I want to be remembered as someone who gave back whenever they could and genuinely cared about all the people they knew. I want to be known as an educator and healer.