If there's one word to describe top TikTok creator, Yahné Coleman, it's confident.
From her deep-rooted sense of knowing she'd achieve the success she has today, to her unbelievable drive to keep pushing for her dreams to become a reality, her conviction is unmistakable.
We sat down with Yahné to hear about where that comes from - and how fans can develop that same sense of self-assuredness.
Yahné Always Knew She Was Destined For Big Things
Speaking to Yahné the morning after the 2023 Academy Awards, we ask if she ever believed she'd be in the same room as some of the most recognizable faces in the world.
"You know," she muses, before breaking into a hearty laugh, "As a kid, I always knew."
That's not to say she had her sights set on any one particular path to get her there, though.
Far from it, she laughs that she couldn't quite pinpoint the one thing she hoped to be known for.
"I just dreamed of just being a superstar."
In light of what she's known for today, that checks out: an NBA dancer, turned TikTok creator with content that showcases her dancing, modeling, comedy and ASMR.
There's no pegging this TikToker down - and we have her OG fanbase to thank for that.
Supportive Parents Paved The Way Yahné's Success
That Yahné was so confident (and so dynamic) from such a young age can undoubtedly be attributed to the supporters she's had since day one: her parents.
"My mom and dad are my biggest fans. They watch all my Lives, and engage with my photos."
"They're definitely proud of me and rooting for me to succeed," she adds.
Yahné pauses a moment before issuing an extra shout-out to her mom.
"My mom had me in everything as a kid: modeling, soccer, golf! I get my confidence from her, from everything she showed me and allowed me to do, as a child. I was very lucky to have a mom who put me in those things."
Yahné adds that, as a direct result of all the disciplines she was introduced to, she developed a solid work ethic, which also adds to her confidence.
Exposing her to the world of opportunities at her feet was just half of her mom's approach, though.
"The positive words of affirmation she gave me as a child - that's where I go back and dig in whenever I need a dose of confidence."
Yahné's Advice To Anyone Struggling With Self-Assurance
Obviously, not everyone is as lucky as Yahné was, in terms of support system.
For that reason, we asked if she had any tips for those whose foundations aren't quite as solid.
"I would say, number one, to find a safe place you can go, to talk about it and get those emotions out. It really takes a great foundation to turn the situation around."
She also makes a point of noting that even the most confident person in the world can have their off days.
More importantly, she adds that a lack of confidence now doesn't mean a lack of confidence forever.
"It's not a definition of who you are, or who you will be," she reiterates.
And, she continues, if a lack of confidence is coming from bullies or haters, the key thing to remember is that their opinions simply don't matter.
"People picking on you is a reflection of their insecurities. They're picking on you because they see a light you might not even see, yourself."
"So," she urges, "Keep going, have faith in what you want to do, look in the mirror, love yourself, and know that you are worthy, you are loved, and just keep going."
"Years from now, you'll be thinking, 'I can't believe I let them make me feel like I wasn't worthy' ... and they'll be messaging you, trying to catch up for dinner."
So, What's Next For Yahné?
Yahné is the first to admit that sometimes, she doesn't even realize just how far she's come until someone else points it out to her.
"Going out and having people who have known me, throughout my journey, tell me they've seen the growth, is amazing."
She adds that sometimes she needs to take a pause, just to take it all in.
However, even with the successes under her belt, this is just the beginning of her monumental rise.
So, what's she hoping to accomplish, next?
"What I'm aiming for, at this current moment, is Disney Channel," she reveals.
"I know that, anything I put my mind, faith and work to, I can do 100%. So, you'll see me on Disney Channel soon!" she winks.
This is one TikToker we can't wait to see more of, in future - and we have no doubts that we will.
