Nora S.
Tell us about yourself.
Hi! My name is Eleanor Schweizer, but I go by Nora. I am 14 years old and am from Boston, MA. Besides modeling, I also love dance, skateboarding, playing the drums, and cheerleading.
What is your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to inspire young girls like me to be confident in themselves.
What does it mean to be your own kind of beautiful?
To “be your own kind of beautiful” means to embrace your unique features because they are what make you beautiful and you should not be afraid to show them off to the world.
Tell us about your modeling experience.
I have been modeling for about a year now and I love it. Aside from one fashion show I did for a fundraising event, I have mostly been working with upcoming Boston photographers and collaborating with them to build my portfolio. I have made many friendships during this journey and hope to make more.
What is your dream brand to model for?
I’d love to model for any skater brand or store such as Vans, Billabong, and Zumiez, or Pacsun. But am also interested in supporting new designers and modeling for those that are already well known.
How would you describe your fashion style?
My fashion style tends to be on the edgier side. I love California skater style, but also love vintage styles from the 50s and 60s. Whether it’s casual or formal wear, I’m not afraid to stand out from the crowd.
How important is self-awareness and confidence to you in your everyday life?
Self-awareness and confidence is very important to me because at a very young age I needed to learn how to love myself. I was born with a port-wine stain birthmark on my cheek, but thanks to my parents and friends, I had a lot of people by my side supporting me and building my confidence. Now when people are make rude or mean statements, I brush it off because I know it’s not true and that they might be having confidence issues of their own.
What makes you beautiful?
Beauty come from the inside. I try to be kind to others and embrace everyone’s differences. I have an energetic and dynamic personality, and it’s part of what I think makes me beautiful. It doesn't matter what size you are, how tall you are, or what color hair you have, as long as you express yourself and stay true to who you are, you are beautiful.
What would you say to another girl your age who is struggling with their confidence?
If you are struggling with confidence issues, the most useful advice I can give is, “don't change for others.” Don’t try to fit in. Stick to who you are and you will be happy.