•  What made you first become a model?

Nothing really made me become a model. Growing up, I rebelled against doing sports since I heard that a lot from people saying, "you should play sports, you need to play sports to get rich and make your family a lot of money." Yes, I love to play sports in the neighborhood with boys because there were barely any girls that lived on my street and my family was made of mostly males and females that were tomboys. So yes, I was a tomboy lol I just was not playing sports for school even though I tried cross country in high school. That was not for me. I stayed in the books, did choir, loved to color, and helped raise my little sister and watched after my little brother while my mom worked.

• How did you feel when you did your first ever fashion show or photo shoot?

I felt nervous and excited about my first photo shoot. I'm shy, however it's something about being in front of the camera and changing clothes to do different looks, styles, facial expressions, etc. So, I took the initiative to submit photos to magazines. I got published in 4 magazines total; twice in one magazine issue for one company and one time in three different issues for another company. So, I started as a print model which has been going on for 3 years now and fashion show for about 4 months now.

• Who was your role model as a child and how did that help in being a model? That's a tough question. I admired different people for different reasons. My mom did modeling before and I had a cousin that was a model for Ebony Magazine. I really admire Tyra Banks. However, I was into technology and learning about software of computers. I truly admired Aaliyah, may she rest in peace. I loved her music and styled. I used to do her dances all the time along with Destiny's Child and TLC.
• What did your parent first think of you being a model and where they supportive? She is supportive as well as my family and friends. Yes of course, when it comes to modeling I have to financially support myself however when they can, they will help. Any support of those being positive, sharing that I am a model and giving compliments are helpful.
• How do you feel about the controversy of the size 0 debate in the industry?

I feel there should not be a controversy. I was never a size 0. I am blessed for the way I am. I love who I am. I wasn't always that way. I have grown to truely love myself and I proud of the grown woman I am continuing to grow to be. Different professionals have their preferences and that's okay. Do I feel that it shouldn't be that way, of course just as when it comes down to not wearing glasses but contacts. The industry is growing and I am proud of that. I love to see women accept and love the size that they are. We are who we say we are individually not what someone else says we are.

• If your were not a model, what other profession would you have been doing instead? Pursue a career that I have my B.S degree of Computer Science. Currently, I am teaching students, mentor and tutor youth and babysit on the side as well as own my own business while within that doing tasks that consist of some technological processes.
• What are guilty pleasures food wise? Friend food. I love chicken and cornbread. Most definitely sweets.
• How do you cope under the pressures of being a model? I realize that I am my own worst critic. I just believe I can and do it. It's about staying positive and saying, "I am beautiful and I have this." What I think will be followed by my thoughts which will be followed by my actions which will be turned into habits. I know my worth and value so that helps me to relax no matter how much my nerves kick in and remember that I am what I allow. I do what I know will be beneficial for those that are younger and watching me. People are looking when you think they are not. We inspire those that seem to overlook us.
• What beauty tips do you swear by? I wouldn't say swear by but I will recommend the following quotes for everyday life: Be comfortable with the in when it comes to different poses. Be confident, bold, fierce, fabulous, strong, and be your authentic self. Look in the mirror and love what you see. Drink plenty of water and use 100% natural products. Exercise and eat healthy. Also Vaseline does wonders after the shower and just in general.
•  If a young girl/boy wanted to be a model what would your advice for them be?

Do your research. Try it out first with a photoshoot or go to a casting call. Practice and watch videos of those you admire that are within the industry. Just do it.

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