Meet Baraka Mccann | Visual Merchandiser & Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Baraka Mccann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Baraka, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
One of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make was choosing to take a leap of faith into the fashion industry rather than following the more stable and structured path of psychology. Psychology had always felt like the “practical” choice—something deeply fascinating, respected, and with a clear trajectory. But fashion? That was the unpredictable, passion-driven route, full of uncertainty and creative risk.

I wrestled with the decision for a long time, questioning whether I was making a mistake by stepping away from something that felt safe. But ultimately, I realized that I couldn’t ignore the pull I felt toward fashion—the way it allowed me to express myself, challenge norms, and create something tangible that could inspire others. It wasn’t just about loving clothes; it was about storytelling, identity, and pushing boundaries in a way that psychology, for me, never quite did.

Walking away from a traditional career path was terrifying, but I knew that if I didn’t take the risk, I’d always wonder what could have been. It wasn’t easy, and there were moments of doubt, but in the end, trusting my gut and embracing the unknown led me to a career that felt authentic and fulfilling.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career as a Visual Merchandiser has been a journey of creativity, risk-taking, and relentless passion. What sets me apart is my ability to blend storytelling with strategy—creating visually compelling spaces that not only showcase products but evoke emotions and experiences. For me, fashion isn’t just about clothing; it’s about identity, culture, and the art of presentation.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I initially considered a career in psychology, but something about fashion kept calling me back. Taking that leap of faith into the industry meant stepping into uncertainty, proving myself in a competitive field, and constantly evolving with trends. There were moments of doubt, financial challenges, and the pressure to conform to traditional career paths, but I pushed through by staying true to my vision.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success in creative industries requires both resilience and adaptability. You have to be willing to take risks, learn from setbacks, and keep refining your craft. I want the world to know that my journey is a testament to following your passion, even when the road is unclear. My work isn’t just about arranging clothes in a store—it’s about creating immersive experiences, telling stories through design, and making fashion feel personal and alive.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Houston, we’d start with breakfast at The Breakfast Klub for their famous chicken and waffles, then explore the Museum District and Hermann Park. Shopping in The Galleria and vintage hunting in Montrose would be a must, followed by street art spotting in downtown. We’d eat our way through the city—BBQ at truths BBQ, seafood at State of Grace, and Tex-Mex at Ninfa’s. For a day trip, we’d hit Galveston for the beach and fresh seafood at Landrys. At night, we’d unwind at rooftop spots like Z on 23, grab cocktails at Julep, and enjoy live music at Axelrad. A mix of culture, great food, and vibrant nightlife would make it the perfect Houston experience!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, my biggest shoutout goes to my mom. She has been the foundation of my strength, resilience, and creativity. From a young age, she encouraged me to dream big and trust my instincts, even when my path wasn’t the most conventional. When I decided to take a leap of faith into fashion instead of pursuing psychology, she never doubted me. Instead, she reminded me that passion and purpose are just as important as stability.

Her unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to push forward, even in moments of uncertainty. Whether it was late-night brainstorming sessions, words of encouragement before big opportunities, or simply reminding me of my worth, she has been there every step of the way. I owe so much of my journey to her love, guidance, and the values she instilled in me.

Website: https://www.SheSimplyChic.com

Instagram: SheSimplyChic

Youtube: Baraka McCann

Image Credits
Impression Bridal