You know how some people just embody sunshine? ☀️ Yeah, that’s literally Achieng Agutu (she/her) aka The Confidence Queen. Born and raised in Kenya, she moved to the U.S. to pursue a higher education at 16-years-old. “I studied public relations and Spanish because I thought I wanted to be behind the scenes,” she shares. “However, this wasn’t where I belonged. In 2021, I chose to become a full-time content creator and moved to NYC the next year, wanting more opportunities and that New York lifestyle. Creating content in NYC really made an impact on my socials and helped grow my community.”

In her free time, she loves cooking, dancing, and playing tennis. 🎾 But her biggest passion is letting women know their power and who they are. Obsessed with her already? Us, too. Let’s learn more about Achieng and her inspirational affirmations below.

What was your journey like to The Confidence Queen?
Honestly, I had a breakup and lost myself for a while. But, I wanted to regain my confidence and put myself first. Things that helped me do that were therapy, finding my community on social media and IRL, going for hot girl walks, and prioritizing people who truly wanted good things for me. This allowed me to become the best version of myself who naturally radiates positivity. Now, I always want to do something beyond myself and share that positivity with the world.

If there is one, what would you say is the key to confidence?
Faking it till you make it, being delusional, and having the audacity to know that you belong. Expanding on this, confidence is a lifestyle as opposed to just being. You have to choose it, whether you want to be more confident in dating or in fashion by enjoying what you’re wearing. Creating confidence in yourself, like going on solo trips or dates, are the key to loving and being comfortable with who you are.

Speaking of fashion, you recently walked at Miami Swim Week for Sports Illustrated. How was that experience as a plus-size model?
Seeing different bodies on the runway, and the excitement of me being on the runway, changed my perception and helped encourage me in my personal journey of inspiring other women. The community I was able to gain and build from this experience was absolutely amazing. If you feel so inclined, you can also vote for me for Sports Illustrated Rookie here!

You also have a podcast that tackles tough convos that people are afraid to have. What’s been your fave episode so far, and who would you love to have as a guest in the future?
My favorite episode was with my sister Lisa Agutu. We had fun letting her see me in my element, as well as getting to experience her in this space of talking about anything and everything. In the future, I would love to have Michelle Obama as a guest because she’s been able to grow a brand for herself as a strong woman to look up to.

We have to know… what is your skincare routine?!
Mornings are very important to me. I start with affirmations that help make me feel the best I can be. Those are: “I am worthy, I am that girl, I deserve good things.” Additionally, these are my must-haves for the best glowy skin:

JIC anyone needs it, can we ask for one more affirmation?
Yes, of course! My favorite affirmation is: “You’re safe, you’re loved, and you’re going places.” This is a perfect way to ground yourself in your power.