Kala James on Cultural Influence and Chasing Big Dreams

Kalabunny is a Playboy Club model from Southern California.
Kalabunny shares what Black History Month means to her, and so much more.

Kala James is a Los Angeles girl through and through. Follow along as she chats with PLAYBOY’s Gabriel Santiago about what Black History Month means to her, and how she stays connected with her culture.

Kala James aka Kalabunny is a Playboy Club creator from Los Angeles.
Kalabunny posing in the Playboy locker room.

PLAYBOY: What does Black History month mean to you?

Kala James: To me black history month means freedom and unity for the Black culture also recognizing the many achievements and struggles of my ancestors. 

PLAYBOY: Growing up and now, who are some of your heroes/role models?

Kala James: I’ve always idolized Naomi Campbell because of our similarities in skin color. She made a huge impact in the modeling industry, especially for girls like me, by advocating for female empowerment along with racial and cultural diversity.

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PLAYBOY: Naturally, eating with loved ones and cooking are prevalent aspects of Black culture. Do you have any family recipes you’d care to share?

Kala James: Oooooh, yes! I love my family’s traditional gumbo—we always have it during Christmas time. I also love my family’s traditional black-eyed peas, greens and hot-water cornbread.

PLAYBOY: You’re a Los Angeles girl. Hollywood has seen countless brilliant African-American directors, actors and actresses. What are your top films and shows? Favorite talent and personalities?

Kala James: I love watching shows from the 1990s and early 2000s like One on One with Kyla Pratt, Moesha with Brandy and Sister, Sister with Tia and Tamera Mowry! I grew up watching these shows as a kid, and still love to watch til this day!

PLAYBOY: Do you have a favorite PLAYBOY magazine cover, or is there one that most stands out most to you?

Kala James: One of my favorite covers is the iconic black and white photo of Marilyn Monroe! She is wearing a sexy black dress with a white collar. I just love it. She looks stunning.

Read More: Q&A: Kalabunny

PLAYBOY: What aspects about African-American culture are you most proud of?

Kala James: I love how we have such a big impact and influence in fashion, music, sports and dance. I also love how versatile my culture is throughout many different parts of the world.

PLAYBOY: For you personally, what’s at the top of the “Things To Accomplish in 2025” list?

Kala James: In 2025, my main goal is to land a contract as a model for a major clothing, beauty brand or agency. I also plan to travel more internationally and experience new parts of the world.

Kala is on The Playboy Club. Talk to her here.

Kala James aka Kalabunny is a Playboy Club creator from Los Angeles.
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