Cenita's Bio

Through the power of belief,
Cenita chose not to let life's
obstacles destroy her spirit.

Born to a teen mother (1967, Brooklyn NY), Cenita was raised by her grandparents (Detroit MI). Life with her grandmother was not easy.  Her childhood was filled with emotional and physical abuse.  It was her (step) grandfather whom she leaned on for the love and encouragement a child needs. "He is my angel and my father." Today, through the power of forgiveness, she has a loving relationship with her grandmother.  To whom she is thankful for instilling basic manners, the strenght of will, and her drive to live an empowered life.

In 1985, Cenita Johnson was listed as Who's Who amongst high school graduates. She declined acceptance to a private university, deciding that the military was the best route towards independence. Throughout her teens and her 3+ years stint in the Air Force (electronics technician), she was approached about a modeling career.  Deciding that is was a sign from the universe, she moved to Atlanta Georgia to embark on her new career.
She signed with the top agency in town. Months later Cenita entered the Ford Agency National Model Search, despite advice that a black girl would never win. She won.  Closing in on one year in Atlanta, Cenita decided that New York City was next. She kept her receptionist job in the day, modeled, delivered pizza at night, and delivered newspapers in the early AM hours; saved her money and moved to New York.

Despite setbacks, her late age of 24 and naysayers who told her she'd never model in New York City; Cenita carved out a 15+ year modeling career working with top agencies such as The Wilhelmina Agency, Elite Models, LA Models, The Kim Dawson Agency, Look Models and Glamour (Paris, France). She has graced the pages of national and foreign magazines, catalogs, runway, national commercials, as well as, film and television appearances.

Years later in Los Angeles, she decided that a career change was nearing. She moved to Dallas Texas where she could model locally while completing college. Late November 2004, Cenita receive a B.S. in Human Relations and Business.

The urge to live near the the ocean continued to call, so late 2005 she moved back to Los Angeles.

November 2006, Cenita realized the purpose that she'd been preparing for all her life. She retired from modeling to focus on building Cenita Johnson Enterprises, a platform for motivational public speaking and writing.

She also created CJ Brand which launched 'THATz HOT" a fashion-forward storage bag for HOT curling irons and flat irons.

Cenita's relentless pursuit of her dreams, despite the odds, has inspired others who crosses her path. This has developed into a passion for inspiring others to pursue their dreams, visions, and goals.

"I was able to change negative and self-limiting thought patterns into thoughts of empowerment. My hope is to inspire others to do the same. I want to share universal success principles as I also continue to grow and learn. I believe that life is a 'ever growing process. You stop living when you stop growing."