Tell us about yourself

• I was born and lived in Rome, New York until I was 14 years old. From there I moved to Victor, New York and was there for a little less than a year. I now live in another town in New York and I am 17 years old. All the moving has been so significant to the person I am today. This is because it has taught me many lessons. The biggest perhaps being the danger of the comfort zone. Moving gives you the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and be the best version of yourself that you can be. This is because you’re not stagnant. You’re moving forward and have many new opportunities. When you stay in your comfort zone there’s no room to grow. It takes one step to change your life. You just have to be willing to take it and run with it.

What is your biggest dream?

• Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had two big dreams. The first was to model and become an actress. Disney was the one channel I watched the most as a kid. I wanted more than anything to be the one holding that wand and saying, “This is Anastasia Quinones and you’re watching Disney Channel”. Haha. I admired so many of the actors and actresses. There’s just something about the magic of the film industry that has captivated me my entire life. Fashion has also played a huge role in who I am. I have always been the one to express myself through the way I dress. Fashion is the loud but quiet expression of infinite words. You don’t have to do much talking to make a statement in fashion. That is why I love modeling. You could be granted the opportunity to work with the amazing creators and designers that make a lasting impact and statement through their work. That is what makes it all worth the while.

The second dream was to become a doctor; an anesthesiologist specifically. Growing up I suffered a multitude of medical issues. Since I was always in hospitals and clinics, the doctors that worked with me became my inspiration. Starting at just 3 years of age they used to take me around and show me how everything worked. I was fascinated by everything they did. The doctors are the ones who really pulled me through all the difficult times. They made things easier by including me in everything. It has always been a huge dream of mine to do the same thing for as many people as I can.

What does it mean to be your own kind of beautiful?

• To be your own kind of beautiful means to just be you. “Be-you-tiful”. You were made to stand out. So, live like you know that and own it.

What is your dream brand to model for?

• My dream brand to model for would probably be Versace.

How would you describe your fashion style?

• My fashion style is very diverse. Meaning that I don’t just stick to one type of style. My closet is a full array of styles. I love switching things up.

How important is self-awareness and confidence to you in your everyday life?

• Self-awareness and self-confidence are two of the most important aspects of my everyday life. When we are able to have a better understanding of ourselves, we are able to be fully aware of our individuality and uniqueness. Which, in turn, allows us to be more confident in ourselves. With this confidence big things happen. We can empower ourselves and then empower others, we grow, improve, and strengthen our weaknesses and identity. We are able to create major impacts and influence others in the best ways.

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

• The things that makes someone beautiful/handsome are individuality, personality, and your confidence in who you are.

What would you say to another girl/guy your age who is struggling with their confidence?

• To anyone struggling with confidence, just know you’re not the only one. The world we live in today tends to take the focus off what it truly means to be yourself. You are amazing, beautiful, and one of a kind. Stop focusing on other people, stop comparing yourself to others. Because you’re friggin awesome! You’re here for a purpose that doesn’t belong to anyone else. You don’t need to change anything about yourself. Live everyday knowing these things. For when you believe enough in yourself great things will start happening. Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams. Fear is a liar. Limits like fear are illusions, disregard them. Put yourself out there and never stop dreaming.