Shea Couleé: Embracing Authenticity and Empowerment on a Global Stage

Shea Couleé, an international superstar in art and advocacy, shares a journey that transcends borders and norms.

From international stages to championing diverse voices, Shea's narrative is a testament to the power of authentic expression. Their insights on creativity, empowerment, and resilience resonate deeply, offering a beacon for those navigating their paths in a complex world. This conversation highlights unique experiences and mirrors the universal quest for identity and purpose, echoing a message of courage and self-belief.

In a candid reflection on their rise to international fame, Shea Couleé opened about the hurdles they encountered on their way to stardom.

Starting their career in 2012 and skyrocketing to fame with their first appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race in 2017, Shea's journey has been marked by personal and professional challenges. Interestingly, Shea pointed out that they often placed the most significant barriers on themselves. "I feel like in terms of obstacles that I've had to face in my career, most of them are self-inflicted... anytime that I have had any issues, it's been me myself kind of like casting like doubt or allowing my insecurities to take over," Shea revealed.

This introspection highlights many artists' common struggle in the entertainment industry – the battle against self-doubt and insecurities.

"Anytime that I've ever felt like I was meeting obstacles... I realized that the obstacles I was dealing with were ones I was creating myself."

Shea's experience underlines the importance of self-reliance and community support in navigating the competitive terrain of the arts. Overcoming these self-imposed obstacles has been a professional growth journey for Shea and a transformative personal experience, shaping their perspective and reinforcing their resilience in a demanding and often unpredictable industry.

"I practice stepping out in faith because I still have those feelings and insecurities. However, every time I've taken a risk and bet on myself, I've usually reaped positive benefits from it."

In our conversation about balancing professional success with artistic expression, Shea Couleé shared invaluable insights for those aspiring to achieve a harmonious career in the arts.

Central to Shea's philosophy is the prioritization of art over financial gain. "You must do it for the art first and foremost, not the money... First, you must give your art your 100% all," Shea expressed emphatically. This approach underscores the belief that while money is essential for sustenance, the authenticity and passion in one's art truly connect with audiences.

Furthermore, Shea spoke candidly about the intricacies of maintaining artistic integrity. This commitment often involves personal and financial sacrifices, as Shea has experienced firsthand. Despite the daunting nature of these challenges, especially when significant financial risks are involved, Shea advocates for steadfast dedication to one's artistic vision.

"It's necessary because it's just how the world works, but you have to be able to prioritize the art still first over, you know, the money part of it."

Shea believes that this commitment leads to more impactful and fulfilling artistic outcomes and offers profound learning experiences.

Shea Couleé, known for amplifying diverse voices, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, offered profound insights on empowering individuals in places like Hong Kong to embrace their unique identities.

Addressing the societal pressures to conform, Shea highlighted a key issue many face in maintaining their individuality. "I just feel like this world, really, the vast majority of this world, wants everyone to conform because it's just easier that way," Shea noted, capturing the essence of the challenge.

This statement reflects the common inclination towards conformity for simplicity and convenience, a trend prevalent in many societies. Shea's observation underscores the struggle to preserve authenticity in a world that often leans towards homogeneity. Through their work, Shea aims to inspire and empower individuals to celebrate their distinctiveness, challenge normative expectations, and encourage a broader acceptance of diversity.

"You owe it to yourself and to the other people who see themselves reflected in you to just like let your light shine and just like be your best and most authentic self."

This commitment to fostering individual expression and identity is a cornerstone of Shea's influence as an artist and an activist. Shea finishes with a powerful quote:

"Anybody, has a special light that we all carry around within us."

In our conversation about using fame for community impact, Shea Couleé passionately shared their initiatives, particularly focusing on uplifting trans voices of color.

Recognizing them as the most vulnerable group in the LGBTQ+ community, Shea prioritizes their protection and visibility. "Uplifting and amplifying trans voices of color are just always the priority because I feel like they are the most vulnerable in our community, so, therefore, need to be given the most protections and safety and platform available," Shea stated, highlighting the critical need for support and recognition of these voices.

Additionally, Shea discussed their unique approach to activism, often characterized by its subtlety and gentleness.

"Activism can be very gentle and subtle in smaller scales... It doesn't always have to be really large and just in ways I try every day exists in this world and create a safe space for like every queer person that I come across."

To Shea, creating safe spaces and offering support to vulnerable groups within the community can motivate Hong Kong's audience, who may seek ways to impact their communities positively. "Try every day in this world and create a safe space for every person that you come across."

Shea's experience underscores the importance of individual efforts in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment, reinforcing that every action contributes to broader social change, no matter how small.

In discussing the impact of mentorship, Shea Couleé revealed how they embrace the role of a mentor, especially in their relationships with their drag daughters.

Shea finds a deep sense of fulfillment in imparting knowledge and life lessons gleaned from their journey as a queen of color and a multifaceted creator.

"It's fun to be able to share and impart knowledge and lessons that I've learned just from my own experiences navigating this world as you know, a queen of color who is, you know, a creator on different levels," Shea shared.

This mentoring approach goes beyond personal interactions. Shea also enjoys sharing their expertise on a broader scale, like through makeup tutorials, showcasing a commitment to education and learning. This reflects Shea's belief in the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of nurturing the unique talents and aspirations of each individual they mentor.

"I love being able to share knowledge and tidbits because I also assume someone who loves to learn and absorb and take in information."

By sharing their experiences and wisdom, Shea is a role model for those aspiring to make their mark in the world, illustrating how success is intertwined with the willingness to learn and grow. Their mentorship style underscores the value of guidance and support in shaping one's path, especially in fields that require creativity and personal expression.

"I love the way that we all get to operate as a family union."

Shea shared fascinating insights and experiences about their trip to Hong Kong. Their standout moment was discovering chitterlings on a menu, a first in their travels.

"It was my first time in Hong Kong, and I already knew it would be a great food city... So yes, I wound up having the best chitterlings I've ever had because they are very polarizing in America," Shea remarked. Despite their divisive nature in America, especially within the Black community, their enthusiasm for chitterlings was a highlight of their culinary adventures in Hong Kong.

Beyond the food, Shea's experience in Hong Kong shattered some preconceived notions. Often perceived as conservative and rigid, the city offered an unexpected sense of freedom. "I was living my best life. I was living my best life fantasy. So, it was fine for me."

Another surprise for Shea was the significant American expatriate community they encountered. This aspect and the city's vibrant nightlife made their trip transformative. Shea's description of Hong Kong as a "magical city" encapsulates their entire experience - a place where modernity and rich history coalesce, leaving them with a lasting desire to return.

As Shea Couleé looks toward the future, their aspirations are closely tied to a philosophy of self-belief and risk-taking.

Shea encourages not just themselves but also others to step out on faith and embrace challenges. This mindset is rooted in their experiences, where taking risks and betting on oneself has often led to positive outcomes.

"Every time I've taken a risk in the past and bet on myself that normally I have reaped positive benefits from it,"

This advice holds particular significance for those embarking on their careers or facing moments of uncertainty in their professional journeys. They advise that this fear "is the time to reflect, plan, and think about what your next move is." Shea's perspective highlights the importance of learning from past experiences, especially those involving taking risks and achieving success.

"That transition period is always really unnerving and scary for a lot of people because there's always so much like uncertainty between, you know, things."

Shea's approach suggests that impacting one's local community and making a mark on the global stage requires a blend of courage, faith in oneself, and the ability to learn from successes and setbacks. Their advice is a powerful reminder that often, the greatest rewards come from the willingness to venture into the unknown and trust in one's abilities and vision.

Interested in watching the full interview? Check out our full coverage video here:

Text: Jeremy Chapnick Photos: Shea Coulee JESSICA Magazine 2024