From the runways of Miami Swim Week to the pages of Vogue, Achieng Agutu’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. With her signature glow, magnetic energy, and unapologetic self-love, it’s no surprise the world now knows her as the Confidence Queen.
She first gained attention for her high-energy, feel-good videos on Instagram and TikTok — a daily dose of affirmations and motivation that quickly turned into a global movement. But Achieng isn’t just a digital sensation. She’s become a powerful voice in fashion and media, representing a new era of visibility and self-worth. As one of the lead hosts of INFLUENCED, a Gen Z talk show on Amazon Prime Video produced by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, she’s using her platform to have real conversations about confidence, identity, and showing up fully — especially in spaces where women like her are often underrepresented.
But behind the glam, brand campaigns, and magazine features is a woman who’s done the work — emotionally, academically, and physically. At 16, Achieng left Kenya to pursue her education in the U.S., supporting herself through multiple jobs while navigating classrooms and boardrooms where she was often the only Black woman. Instead of shrinking, she chose to take up space. Loudly. Joyfully. And always on her own terms.
Now based in New York City and dreaming even bigger, she’s manifesting her next chapter: an IRL Confidence Tour that will take her empowering message beyond the screen. Because for Achieng, confidence isn’t a buzzword — it’s a way of life.
In this exclusive with GLAMOUR, she opens up about becoming her own hype woman, the power of showing up unapologetically, and what confidence really looks like — even on the hard days.
What kept you motivated while working multiple jobs to support your studies?
I just wanted a better life for myself. The life I was living then was not conducive to who I wanted to be and what I wanted to do. I wanted greatness, and I was going to do whatever I had to do to get there.
When did you first realise your content was making a real impact?
When I started receiving messages from people saying, “What you’re doing is making a difference for me today.” In the beginning, I was creating content for myself—I had no idea it could brighten someone’s day or make them feel seen. But once the feedback started coming in, even from people I admire, I had a moment of realisation: “I am that girl.”
What does confidence mean to you, and how do you maintain it during tough moments?
Confidence is a lifestyle—my lifestyle. It means living as my most authentic self and standing in full awe and adoration of who I am. Do I maintain it during tough times? Honestly, not always. Confidence also means being real, and part of that is allowing yourself to be vulnerable. Even when it wavers, it’s always a part of me.
How has your journey been as a Black woman navigating spaces where you were often the only one in the room?
Being the only Black woman in the room is a journey, a lesson, and a responsibility. You carry more than just your own dreams—you carry history, expectations, and hope for others who never had the chance. There were moments I doubted myself. When my ideas were picked apart more than others. When I felt I had to work twice as hard just to be seen as enough. But what I’ve learned is that my presence alone is power. Just being in the room is a statement. So, I stopped asking for permission. I started owning my space. I walk into rooms now as my full self—unapologetic, confident, and rooted in the strength of the women who came before me. And I make it my mission to ensure I’m not the last one in those rooms.
Because we are not meant to just survive in these spaces, we are meant to thrive.
How did it feel being featured in Vogue and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, both personally and professionally?
It felt like confirmation—like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be, doing what I’m meant to be doing, with the people I’m meant to be around. Surreal, yes. But also completely aligned. I’ve never doubted I belong in those spaces. It’s more than an achievement—it’s an affirmation of my purpose.
What excites you most about co-hosting INFLUENCED on Amazon Prime and connecting with Gen Z?
It’s exciting that my story and message can transcend age and speak to people from all walks of life. Gen Z is the future, and the fact that I get to connect with them in an authentic way is a privilege. It’s about representation—being someone they can see and say, “That could be me.”
Tell us more about your vision for a “Confidence Tour.” What would that look and feel like?
It’s giving joy, energy, celebration—all things me. It’s a space for storytelling, for connection, and yes, for a little champagne too. My dream is for people to leave inspired to live fully, bet on themselves, and find the beauty in their wild, wonderful lives.
What’s your go-to self-care ritual when you need to recharge?
Movement. Whether it’s dancing or going for a walk, I need to feel my body in motion—it helps clear my mind. I also love a spontaneous flight, a good cry, deep chats with my parents or girlfriends, and honestly? Put me by the beach, immediately!
What advice would you give to young girls—especially girls of colour—who are struggling to feel seen or heard?
Give yourself a little grace! This is also your first time experiencing life. Just do it, even though it feels scary. Do it afraid, do it happy, do it anxious, do it with no support, just do it. At the end of the day, you always have to bet on yourself. And.. have fun! Life’s not that serious. If I thought that at 17 or 18 or 25, I wouldn't get through/live past the thing I was going through at the time, then I wouldn’t be who I am today.
What’s next for you in 2025—any projects or dreams you’re manifesting?
Oh, there’s plenty! Keep your eye on @noordinarynoire to see what’s fresh and fabulous. Around here, it’s always the beginning of greatness.
CREDITS:
Photographer: JD Barnes @jdthecombo
Assistant Photogragher: Oren Siddo @Orensiddophotography
Make up artist: Kristen-Kaye Barnaby @kkaobykkb
Hairstylist: Famata Sherman @slayed_by_famata
Fashion stylist: Anthony Pedraza @anthonypedrazastylist
Cover image Stylist: Alexander-Julian Gibbson @alexanderjulian
