"Keith E. Bannister"
**Personal & Career Journey**
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you started your modeling career?
Hi, I’m Keith. I am a tech enthusiast who leads their life with empathy and loves helping people with their hardware or software problems. My modeling journey began in late 2019 (Illinois) after deciding I wanted my life to be different. I changed my exercise routine, diet, and mentality in order to chart a path forward. While the pandemic upended society as we know it, I was determined to keep moving forward. After not receiving any follow-up to my submissions, it became apparent that I needed to reside closer to a central modeling hub city to increase my odds of breaking in. And so I did just that! I moved to Los Angeles in 2022 and have been making incremental strides toward my ultimate goal ever since. In 2025, I hit the ground running and have not stopped to look back. Furthermore, I recently changed jobs in order to dedicate more time and energy to my mental health and passions. Bold & Beyond is my first legitimate modeling opportunity and I could not be more thrilled!
What inspired you to become a model?
I have always been enamored by the fashion industry and naturally fell in love with the idea of modeling soon after. I am intrigued by the craft and artisans that create exquisite garments that not only look aesthetically pleasing, but also tell a compelling narrative. Finding a model to emphasize and highlight a given piece also takes considerable time, effort, and creativity. I am fascinated by the entire process and have been eager to find my place in the industry for years.
**Industry Experience & Challenges**
What has been the most exciting or memorable shoot you’ve worked on?
In truth, I have not been working in this industry long, but have been fortunate to gain a modicum of experience over the past few months. I recently shot my first vertical and short film (as a background actor), and have not stopped smiling ever since Bold & Beyond reached out to me with my first real modeling opportunity! Without a doubt, being featured in this wholly unique magazine has been the most memorable project to date!
Have you faced any challenges in the modeling industry? If so, how did you overcome them?
Yes, we all have, and I anticipate further challenges as I continue my journey. In this industry, you have to temper your expectations and prepare for a copious amount of rejection. While rejection can be deflating, the real challenge lies in the fact that we often do not receive any tangible feedback after submitting. Trying to break into this industry can already seem insurmountable, but not receiving any criticism leaves one benighted as to what exactly needs improvement. I overcame this specific challenge by staying focused on my unique attributes, sculpting my physique, and improving my overall camera presence.
What role do you think storytelling plays in modeling?
**Creative Process & Style**
Art is the quintessential device humans use to create and tell stories. And to me, fashion, photography, and modeling are all forms of art. With a species as culturally diverse as ours, I feel the industry offers an ideal landscape to showcase our beautiful and distinct nature. Moreover, the industry is filled with artists who craft compelling narratives into every aspect of their work. Modeling acts as a visual representation of the story/emotion the designer or photographer is trying to elicit.
How would you describe your modeling style?
I am an innately stoic and introverted person. Thus, I like to think my modeling style reflects my calm, reserved, and jovial demeanor.
How would you describe your modeling style?
​To be candid, I would consider myself fortunate to be featured in any of these categories. As a novice in the industry, I feel it would be detrimental to adhere to a single preference and not explore all available avenues. And while I never considered myself runway material, I certainly would not squander the opportunity if presented.
**Influences & Inspirations**
Are there any models, photographers, or designers who have inspired you?
While there is a genuine litany of influential individuals (past and present) that comprise this industry, I have been truly inspired by the tenacious and unrelenting vigor of model Bethann Hardison. A beautiful soul inside and out, Bethann’s work on and off the runway has been nothing short of extraordinary. While being labeled a pioneer in the industry (and rightly so), I am not only galvanized by her natural beauty, but also by her stalwart activism and philanthropic pursuits throughout the entire industry.
How do you stay motivated and continue growing as a model?
Without the love and support of my family, I would not be having this interview today. Their excitement and enthusiasm has and continues to propel me forward. Don’t get me wrong, there are days I feel fatigued and simply do not want to workout, diet, etc. But the truth remains, if I don’t put in the necessary time and effort, nothing in my life will change.
**Influences & Inspirations**
What are your biggest career goals for the future?
As of now, to keep working in the industry! Being featured in a genuine magazine has been overwhelming and a dream come true! My goal is to stay humbled, focused, and eventually gain the necessary experience and portfolio to model full-time.
Do you have any dream collaborations or brands you'd love to work with?
As a newcomer, I am hungry, eager, and open to collaborate with any artist or company that wants to innovate and create. As my journey starts in earnest, it would be an honor and true privilege to collaborate with any brand!
What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry?
Keep fighting! It has taken over 5 years for me to discover my distinct attributes, hone my physique, and find a path forward. I’ll be honest, the road has been arduous, and I know it will continue to be so. Despite this fact, I remain enthusiastic, resolute, and proud of the progress I have made thus far. Handling rejection will be a recurring tribulation, but you have to be open to collaborative experiences and stay positive. Find the courage to love yourself and your passion will speak for itself!
-Keith E. Bannister