Meet the fearless adventurer, adrenaline junkie, catwalk model and lawyer with a passion for empowering and mentoring others…
Hello there, Daneka. Tell us a bit about yourself and life story so far?
I’m Scandinavian but born and raised in Minnesota, U.S.A.. I grew up dirt-biking, fishing, snowmobiling, restoring classic cars with my father and I’ve danced since I was three. I’m highly intelligent, I love to learn, and I enjoy mental stimulation of complex subjects. I earned degrees and completed undergraduate study in biology, law, psychology and sociology, and most recently, graduated from law school with a Juris Doctor degree. I discovered my passion practicing law in the financial and securities industry. Although not required, I became a multi-state lawyer by passing multiple state exams to hold law licenses in those states. Why only have one law license when I can have a couple poker hands full of them?
When did you start modelling?
I began modelling as a hobby. I’m fortunate for every opportunity and to walk on fashion runways across the U.S.A. – a lot of consistency, dedication, and hard work goes into everything I do. Beyond that, I’m a fearless adventurer – a slight adrenaline junkie who loves the outdoors, travelling and a variety of activities like biking, fitness, golfing, hiking, scuba diving, skiing…
Tell us a bit about your photo shoot.
We shot this in a beautiful home in Dallas, Texas U.S.A. and being from Minnesota — the land of cold, negative temperatures and snow – I never realised the heat of a Texan summer until I was shooting outside, in the middle of the day, in 40°C weather! I had never worn a one-piece bikini before so I was slightly apprehensive given my unique body shape. I’m a highly confident woman and my confidence never changes based on what I’m wearing – or not wearing, but, overall, I was impressed with the photos and the red is so vibrant! I loved the concept and the team is amazing.
When do you feel sexy?
I feel sexy every day by embracing my authenticity, being confident and inspiring others to chase their dreams. I relate to struggles others often face because I’ve been doubted, I’ve failed and been teased. However, a woman who rebuilds herself and her confidence by herself for herself becomes unbreakable – I am that woman. My experiences are motivation to share that smart is sexy and I’m passionate about empowering and mentoring because we rise by lifting others.
What is your message to others?
By being authentic – a trait that’s different and rare, doing what I love and embodying authenticity in my own life, it inspires and awakens others. There’s nothing sexier than being confident in who you are and the value you bring to the table – always know your worth – then add tax. You are your only competition – it’s always you against you and you can accomplish anything with the right mindset!
What is your best asset?
Physically, my smile – smiling at someone can really brighten and completely change their day. Otherwise, my kind heart – I love being caring, empathetic, and all-around kind to others. Growing up, I was criticised and teased by peers, which was very hurtful; I never want others to experience that hurt so I choose to spread kindness around like confetti, even when others are unkind to me. In today’s world, caring, empathetic and kind people are rare, so I pride myself in being a loving, positive and supportive space for others. You never know what someone is going through, so be a kind person, always give the world good energy and remember to smile!
What would people be most surprised to know about you?
Being a lawyer, most expect me to be pretentious but I’m down-to-earth, eccentric, playful and super quirky! I’m a funny, outgoing and positive person who dances to the beat of my own drum and loves to make others laugh. You can’t get time back, so laugh often, apologise when you should, let go of things you can’t change, love deeply and forgive quickly!
How would you best describe your personality?
My personality tends to confuse, shock, and surprise most and I usually don’t openly share that I’m a lawyer because I want to be known for my character and positive impact, not based on my career. Being an independent and strong woman with a sweet girl next door demeanour, most are shocked to learn I’m a lawyer because I don’t fit the stereotype – they struggle with the concept that women can be competent, sexy and smart. However, I’ve always enjoyed not being what people expect me to be. I won’t be everyone’s favourite flavour of ice cream and that’s OK!
What’s next for you?
There’s never a dull moment in the world of Daneka and there are always exciting things going on. However, in brief, I’m walking in a few upcoming fashion shows across the U.S.A. and in Paris and I also have some really fun upcoming photo shoots. I’m excited for all the opportunities that are currently underway. Most importantly, I’ll always continue encouraging, inspiring and making a difference in the lives of others. ■
STATUS UPDATE
FULL NAME: Daneka Brittany Hill
HOME TOWN: Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A.
BORN: March 7
FIVE WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Fearless, adventurous, empathetic, loyal, ambitious.”
GO-TO DRINK: “Although I don’t drink often – whisky neat.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Believe in yourself, be brave, be confident, chase your dreams fearlessly and don’t let anyone or anything stop you.”
INSTAGRAM: @thatgirldanekabrittany
FACEBOOK: daneka.hill
For the full article grab the April 2022 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
