One of the more criticized cast members of this seasons Love & Hip Hop NY, Diamond Strawberry, daughter of legendary major leaguer Darry Strawberry has hit the scene in one of the more scrutinized manners in recent years. However crtiical you may be of her portrayals on Monday night, there are quite a few more things you should get to know about this sister. For that precise purpose, me and lovely California native sat down to talk life, motherhood, the show, and future aspirations. Check it out exclusively via The Trophy Life
Jason Bourne: Can you tell us a little bit about your upbringing as the daughter of arguably one of the greatest hitters of all time, Darry Strawberry ?
Diamond Strawberry: When I was younger I did not realize or appreciate for that matter, how big my father was. I did not understand why I was constantly criticized and made fun of because of his mistakes. I can admit, I was a very sheltered child. I was also expected to follow in my fathers footsteps, by that I mean playing sports and with some of his personal issues.
Jason Bourne: You have a big personality, what 3 words would you use to describe yourself?
Diamond Strawberry: Great Question. I would say: Genuine, loving, firecracker
Jason Bourne: How long has modeling been a pursuit of yours?
Diamond Strawberry: I’ve been persuing modeling for about 4years now.
Jason Bourne: How did your role on Love & Hip Hop come about?
Diamond Strawberry: Shortly after moving to NY, Cisco told me that some people from VH1 were interested in talking with me. He explained that they wanted him on the show, and since I was his girlfriend they wanted to offer me a role as well.
Jason Bourne: A lot of ppl feel as though the relationships on the show are manufactured, how long were you and Cisco actually dating ?
Diamond Strawberry: Contrary to popular belief, the relationship was not made up. We were together for two years.
Jason Bourne: How were you able to come to the decision to move to NY as seen on the show ?
Diamond Strawberry: Making the decision to move to NY wasn’t easy for me. I was literally sick to my stomach about having to leave my daughter behind. At the time it was what was needed to be done In order to follow my dreams, and create opportunity. All of which is for the purpose of a better life for my daughter.
Jason Bourne: Do you regret not telling Cisco about your daughter earlier?
Diamond Strawberry: I regret not telling Cisco about MyLisa when we first met, but I do not regret not letting them meet.
Jason Bourne: On the show you seem to have moved on and are in a new relationship how’s that going?
Diamond Strawberry: I am in love and I am happy! I have someone who treats me very well. He loves me and my daughter genuinely. To be honest, I couldn’t ask for a better man.
Jason Bourne: You and your mom seem to have a great bond, can the same be said about you and dad?
Diamond Strawberry: My mom is my best friend. I don’t know what I would do without her. My dad and I are mending our relationship. We’re taking it one day at a time. He is a great guy and I love him very much.
Jason Bourne: What has been his reception to seeing you on reality TV?
Diamond Strawberry: He does not like how I’ve been portrayed so far. He does not agree with me being on the show, but he supports me regardless.
Jason Bourne: I must commend you on your philanthropy, can you tell us about “A Safe Place Youth Center” and the inspiration to take that initiative?
Diamond Strawberry: It is a group home for pregnant teens, run aways, and victims of abuse. A Safe Place Youth Center is Located in California. I am the Co-founder. It has been a long process, but we are almost ready to open our doors. It is near and dear to my heart because I got pregnant at 18, had my daughter and 19 and I remember how hard it was. Even with having the support of my family, it was difficult. I can only imagine how the people who have no support can feel.
Jason Bourne: You have a boutique in the works correct? When can we expect that launch and what will be your niche fashion and design wise ?
Diamond Strawberry: Yes I do have plans to venture into fashion. I have a clothing line in the works which features lounge wear for men, women, and children.
Jason Bourne: How has your role on the show helped your career?
Diamond Strawberry: The show has given me a lot of exposure. It is a great platform to promote myself and help with my ambitions to get into other things.
Jason Bourne: Will we be seeing you in any major campaigns modeling wise anytime soon?
Diamond Strawberry: 2015 will be a big year for me. I have several modeling gigs coming up. Business has been going very well, and I am grateful for that.
Jason Bourne: Best piece of advice you can give to an inspiring young female who wants to break into the entertainment industry
Diamond Strawberry: Do not give up! You will hear “no” more than “yes”; but you cannot let that discourage you. Grind hard & pray harder… Your time will come!
Jason Bourne: Would you warn against Reality TV?
Diamond Strawberry: No. I would just say “stay true to yourself and do not let anybody manipulate you or talk you into doing things you don’t want to do”. Thats the best advice I can give.
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