story

Genai
@genaaaai
Model & Community Arts Worker
El Sereno, Los Angeles

"I didn't really get into the sneaker game until I started working, making my own money. I went from only seeing everybody wear the same thing every day to being in this world where now I have over 40 pairs of shoes. It's kind of mind boggling to think about."

"These are Women's Air Force 1s 'Metallic Gold' released in 2019. The leather on these is pretty crazy, and the accents of gold that are around the double swoosh, the heel, the tongue, and the little charm right here..."

"...it just brings a whole different level to the Air Force 1 that I love and that I appreciate. I would definitely say these shoes are a top five because they go with everything and that's all you really need."

"These are the Cortez Kenny 3s, also known as the 'Bet It Backs', originally released in 2018. I hold these shoes very near and dear to my heart."

"They were given to me as a gift by someone that means a whole bunch to me. They've been very integral in me getting to the place that I am in my life today, not only personally, but in my career. In my sneaker collection, these shoes would definitely rank in the top three."

"These are my P-6000's in metallic gold. I love these shoes. These are honestly one of my everyday shoes. They're very well-loved because they're just so comfortable. They're a little chaotic, they've got a lot going on, but I think that can make a whole outfit."

"With my entire collection of shoes, these would have to be top three. They're just in heavy rotation at all times. These are my Uptempos, the black and white colorway originally released in '95..."

"...again in 2016, and then they were relaunched once again in 2020, and that's when I picked these guys up. I love a good Uptempo. If you know me, you know what's going on. I probably have about six different colorways sitting in the back over there."

"These are a game changer once they're in your wardrobe. Out of my collection, I feel like my Uptempos sit at number two, which is pretty bold to say, but that's just what it is."

"These are the Jordan 1 Lows 'Pine Green' originally inspired by the '85 release. And I got these guys when they released in 2019. These shoes are another shoe that means a lot to me because they were the first pair of Jordans that I ever bought myself."

"My favorite element of the shoe is the color. The green is a vibe, and I think now it's reminiscent of my personality and how I'm a little bit bold. In my sneaker collection, I feel like these sit at number one."

"Being from LA has provided me with the opportunity to connect with so many different women in the sneaker game. So to see females that are creating their own silhouettes, it gives me the confidence to be able to..."

"...wear whatever I want, buy whatever I want, enter this world of sneakers and streetwear and come into my own. Thanks so much for watching. My name's Genai, and this is What I Got."

What You Got

72- Genai