Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Allison Johnson of Charlotte

We recently had the chance to connect with Allison Johnson and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Allison , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
A recent moment that made me proud of myself was being featured in five international magazines within a year — twice in Germany, as well as in London, Italy, and Russia. It means so much to me because my grandma modeled professionally across Europe for years, building a career that I’ve always admired. Knowing I’m following in her footsteps makes me incredibly proud. I like to think she’s looking down, applauding the way I idolize her success.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Allison Johnson, and I’ve been modeling for nearly five years. Each year, I’ve watched my career grow and evolve into something I’m truly proud of. A year ago, I never would have imagined being featured in European magazines — and the year before that, I couldn’t have dreamed of the brand partnerships I have today. I’m incredibly thankful, and honestly, still a little shocked by how far I’ve come.

Beyond modeling, I started dance coaching as a hobby, and it’s become one of my greatest sources of joy. Watching others grow and express themselves through dance — something I was deeply passionate about as a child — feels like coming home.

I’m also pursuing a degree in Occupational Therapy, a field I’ve always admired. My goal is to continue building my fashion career alongside my work in OT. In five years, I hope to look back with gratitude for choosing both stability and passion — and for creating a life that honors everything I love.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My sister and father have always encouraged me to express myself — even through the challenges of an abusive mother, conflicting opinions from others, and a difficult adolescence. I truly believe pain contributes to strength, a lesson my father instilled in me from a young age. I couldn’t be more thankful for my family’s constant encouragement to keep pushing forward. Looking back, I know I wouldn’t have achieved what I have today without their voices reminding me that quitting is a sign of weakness, not relief.

Those experiences shaped my resilience — both in life and in my career. Modeling requires confidence, patience, and a strong sense of self, and I carry the lessons my family taught me into every photoshoot and opportunity. Every time I’m in front of a camera or step onto a new set, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come, not just as a model, but as a person who refused to give up.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
As someone who endured an abusive mother, constant moves and new schools, and people who didn’t agree with my choice in fashion, I can confidently tell you that success couldn’t teach you humility. I am so blessed for what I have now, I couldn’t complain about one thing in my life. I am grateful for everything and anything handed to me because no partnership could erase the years of hardship I faced. I’m lucky to take part in a phenomenal agency, and even luckier to have an amazing father and sister who provide constant encouragement.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I stand by is discipline. Both in Russian culture and modeling, nothing gets done without it. I have stuck with dance, modeling, and the gym for years and plan to continue. I refuse to lose what I have worked for, regardless of how hard it can be or what people say. Work ethic is grounded in my family’s beliefs. As my grandma would say, “ Твоя слабость никому не интересна” – Your weakness interests no one.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
One thing about me is that I expect nothing. Life isn’t meant for constant praise — not everyone gets a trophy, and that’s okay. I think that’s one of the biggest problems with modern society: people often feel entitled to success, but not to the work that comes with it.

I was raised to be disciplined, strong, and capable. If I want something, I’ll work for it — no matter how difficult it is to achieve. I’ll fail time and time again before I even think of giving up, and I’ll keep a smile on my face while doing so.

Never expect praise — appreciate it when it comes. Because in the end, nothing is owed to anyone, and that’s what makes true success so fulfilling.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @allisonjiolijohnson

Image Credits
Daniel Turbert
Dave Rave
John Chandler