Photographer, Ajia Jackson. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Nick Allen
With the entertainment industry entering a new era with the advent of digital space, new faces are emerging every day. While a few become overnight sensations, many succumb to the pressure of cutthroat competition. And then some individuals play in a league of their own, not letting the mere success metric define them. A prime example is the Nigerian-American teen actress and professional model Tia Ola, who is not stepping into the spotlight—she’s commanding it with confidence, purpose, and determined ambition.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
Based in Dallas, Texas, Tia has quickly become a name to watch in both the fashion and entertainment industries. From walking the runways of New York, Milan, and London to interviewing top talent as a KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. She brings in new and exciting projects for her audience now and then and is open to opportunities that will test her versatility and passion for her work.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
The journey into entertainment and fashion began for the teenager when watching a documentary about Baby Phat, the trailblazing fashion brand created by Kimora Lee Simmons. “She wasn’t just the designer—she was also the face of her brand,” Tia explained. “That clicked with me. I realized that modeling could be a transforming step toward designing one day.”
While Baby Phat gave her an early understanding of what she was meant to do, Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis, starring Austin Butler, catalyzed her decision to enter the industry. Both incidents played a decisive role in her decision to try out modeling and acting.
Photographer, Ajia Jackson. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Nick Allen.
Growing up in a generation filled with internet sensations, Tia recognized that skill and talent required proper platforms for refinement and practice. To deepen her understanding of art, she enrolled in formal training classes, allowing herself the opportunity to strengthen the fundamentals of her craft. These classes became a crucial stepping stone for her as she prepared to embark on her professional journey.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
Her dedication to her work paid off when she landed her first show in New York, and she has since graced the runways of the fashion capitals of Milan and London. With her confidence and sheer spark that she brings on stage, Paris is set to be next on her list. For Tia, the first time she went on the runway for New York Fashion Week, she experienced a euphoric sense of achievement in which all her hard work and struggles paid off. That moment, combined with her win at the Plitzs NYFW Kids Fashion Democracy show, solidified her place in the industry.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
Each show brings a distinct energy, and Tia approaches them in a different way. “For runways, I focus on attitude and expressions,” she shared. “For commercial modelling, I study the client’s vibe and tailor my look and poses accordingly.” Her adaptability and professionalism have made her a favorite among designers, each offering unique experiences and challenges that continue to shape her.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
As a person of color in the industry, Tia acknowledges the plethora of challenges while also praising the progress toward change that is taking place. For the model and actress, the industry is evolving into a diverse and inclusive platform where talent sets the standard for all. Besides the world of glitz and glamour, Tia is a science and tech enthusiast, managing a packed schedule that includes studies in human biology, coding, and entrepreneurship.
Photographer, Ajia Jackson. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Nick Allen.
The teenager believes in expanding her horizon and stepping into new ventures when provided with a good opportunity. Her intellectual curiosity is matched by a deep compassion for others, which led her to launch Confident Smiles, a youth-focused initiative promoting dental health and self-esteem. The inspiration was deeply personal: as a child, Tia struggled with dental issues that affected her confidence.
Photographer, Paige Killian Photography. Wardrobe, Nahoti Dezines. Hair, Khara Odibo. Makeup, Alberto Mosqueda.
When she’s not modeling, Tia’s busy acting; she has played key roles in short films such as Timeless, a romantic drama, and A Little Lift, an inspiring story that earned her a Young Artist Academy nomination. Most recently, she starred in her first supporting role in the upcoming comedic web series Parental Control, set to release in late 2025. She is also working as a KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. She reviews movies and interviews actors and directors. “I love interviewing people—especially hearing how they got started,” she concluded.
For the future, Tia sees herself acting in movies, taking on different roles that combine her love for science and storytelling, while also becoming the face of a mega fashion line.
Tia Ola is currently represented by GTK PR Agency, LLC in Los Angeles, California, for her public relations needs. You can follow her journey on Instagram at @tia_olatunji.
Talent: Tia Ola @tia_olatunji
Photographers: Ajia Jackson @jackson_visuals, Paige Killian @paigekillianphotography
Wardrobe Designer: Nahoti Dezines @nahotidezines
Hair: Khara Odibo @sheerimmersion
Makeup: Alberto Mosqueda @blushrehab, Nick Allen @dollouthabox
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