Meet Anika Rashaun! You may recognize her from MTV's Real World Season 32: Bad Blood or this year's season of MTV's The Challenge: Invasion of the Champions. To get the full scoop on Anika from Challenge insight to her lifestyle brand AskAnika check out our Q&A together below:
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York until I was in fifth grade. After that, my family moved to the suburbs of Philadelphia, where I lived until college where I moved right back to NYC.
What was your childhood like?
I had an awesome childhood! Growing up in New York meant I was always on an adventure and my family was very encouraging of everything I did. I did a lot of acting as a child and always wanted to be in the spotlight.
What were you involved in growing up?
Growing up, I was really interested in the arts so I did a lot of activities that were geared towards there. One of my favorite moments in middle school was being able to be a cast member of Grease and perform at school.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
It’s hard to pick one but one of my favorite childhood memories was my 10th birthday party. I had a huge sleepover with tons of friends from school and my parents went all out with decorations and gifts.
What Real World season are you from?
I’m from Real World Season 32: Bad Blood
What inspired you to go on the show?
I’ve always enjoyed being in front of the camera, so when I received the opportunity it was a no-brainer for me. I never intended to do reality TV but when I started AskAnika, my lifestyle brand, I was strategizing the many different ways to brand my company and the Real World was the perfect opportunity.
What would you say was the hardest part of the show for you?
The hardest part of the show for me surprisingly is watching it. There were a lot of scenes that didn’t make the cut and it was like I was watching a different experience than the one I lived. I would also say another hard part was leaving and getting used to regular life without the cameras again.
What would you say was the best friendship either of the shows gave you?
I had pretty close relationships with most of my cast members, but I definitely talk to Jordan, Orlana, and Theo on a regular basis.
What makes The Challenge series so interesting to join?
The Challenge series picks you based on the theme they are working on that year. When I was reached out to, I was super excited for the chance to travel the world and compete in a physical and mental competition that seemed like a once in a lifetime experience.
What’s the hardest challenge you have ever done on the show?
The hardest challenge I have done on the show was the second challenge where we had to be in the water and balance coconuts on a small boat while standing. Not only was I pissed for always falling in the water but I was also scared of what have been lurking below the water.
Looking back, what advice would you give to yourself now before going on your first Challenge?
The only advice I would give myself before going back on The Challenge is play for yourself and never hesitate with your gut instinct.
What has been your favorite Challenge season that you've either been apart of or watched?
Since I’ve only been apart of one Challenge season so far, that is my only point of reference so naturally it’s my favorite.
What do you want people to know about you that they didn't get from the shows?
I think that the Real World lacked on telling a full story on all cast members because of the number of stories that needed to be told during a short time period. With that being said, I don’t think the show displayed me enough to actually get a real idea of who I am as a person. I think The Challenge did a good job at capturing my passion, fire and little bit of cockiness and sassiness. I’m a fighter, passionate and a pretty laid back person.
How do you stay in “challenge” shape?
I work out in my home and go to the gym as well as cooking at home a lot which helps me with making sure I implement a healthy diet when I can.
What is your go-to everyday beauty product?
My go-to everyday beauty product is my Bobbi Brown concealer and my NYX lip gloss.
What is your staple fashion item for any look?
I love lashes and playing around with them. They can really take a look from simple to dramatic and sexy with ease. I also pride myself on having bomb and bold eyebrows, so I try my best to make sure these stay on point.
What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure is fudge brownies. I can eat them all day everyday without a doubt.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
The best piece of advice I ever received was follow your dreams and enjoy the ride. It’s hard to not get caught up up in what’s next, but I’ve learned that it’s very important to learn to seize the day.
What's a quote you live by everyday?
A quote that I definitely live by everyday is don’t give up before the miracle happens
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