Tahiry is a popular model and media personality who is using powerful technology like Twitter to her brand advantage. As part of our BV on Money series on black celebrity money and the power of social media, we asked this queen on the celebrity scene how she manages her professional life online while sharing her top entertainment business lessons. Here's what she had to say.

What is your name and what do you do?
My name is Tahiry and I am a social media maven.

What are some of the misconceptions people have about celebrities and their money?
The first misconception is definitely that fame equals wealth, which is completely wrong. You see people on TV, in magazines, or hear them on the radio, and it is assumed that they have outstanding wealth. The reality is that popularity and fame equals more opportunities, but never automatic wealth.

What surprised you the most about the financial side of your industry?
I was surprised about how slow it moves in this business when it comes to finances. You get everything in this business before you see wealth.

How has Twitter helped you in building your brand and running your business?
Twitter has allowed me to connect with my followers and promote my businesses very well. It has good and bad sides, but from a business standpoint, Twitter has provided everybody a with a platform in one way or another. I can only be grateful to have Twitter. It's a way to give people the real me in little updates.


Do you have any financial and professional advice for aspiring celebs out there?
Financially I would advise you to definitely keep your main hustle until everything takes over. In my case, I always held on to my main income source. I rely on it a lot less of course, but it's just the way I have been. I am fully committed to building my brand, but I'm also very determined to live well. As far as professional advice, I would stay focused and with your eyes on the prize. On your road to success many things will try to distract you from your ultimate goal. The art is to understand that obstacles are only what you see when you take your eyes off the destination.

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Related:
+LisaRaye McCoy Talks Business & Social Media With Black Voices
+Blog Star Necole Bitchie Shares Business Wisdom, Celeb Money Tips
+Angela Simmons Talks Twitter, Pastry & New Business Ventures

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What upcoming projects do you have in store for us?
Well, I have my 2011 calendar that you can order at www.tahiryonline.com.

I am also finalizing my gym clothing line, made by Angerwear. The name of my line is "F.I.T." -- "Females in Training" by Tahiry, which I will launch together with a workout fitness DVD. I will promote both with a fitness column in Hip Hop weekly magazine in early 2011.

And of course I will continue my videblogs on thisis50.com in a better way for 2011.

I have a few upcoming covers in 2011 as well. Just stay tuned.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with our AOL Black Voices audience?
I want everyone to know that I am humbled by this AOL Blackvoices interview. I appreciate all the support and look forward to another great year.