Tell us about yourself (where are you from, age, whatever you want to add)

My name is Amanda P. and I am from Chicago. I’m 18 years old and I love modeling and pageantry. I also sing and dance in my free time, and make sure to give back to my community through helping out at church and being a mentor to young kids. 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to have a big enough platform to reach people that need to be encouraged. I am a strong believer that positivity can change lives, all it takes is for one person to spark a light in the darkness for it to shine. I want to help as many people in desperate need as I can, and hopefully use my modeling platform to motivate all people to lift each other up. 

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

Growing up in such a diverse city, I have been exposed to so many different  races, cultures, religions and languages. Every person that I come across is uniquely beautiful and it allows me to have a very broad outlook on beauty. Being my own kind of beautiful means taking the qualities God has given me and being confident in them. It is also accepting others and allowing them to express their beautiful and unique qualities as well. 

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I started doing pageants last year, which motivated me to pursue the modeling career that I have wanted since I was a young girl. Since competing in Miss Teen Illinois USA, I have worked with Bridal Elegance, a pageant and prom dress store, as an ambassador. I participated in a commercial and a Bridal Expo fashion show. 

What is your dream brand to model for?

My dream is to model for Vogue or Forever 21, although I would be incredibly honored to model for any brand that represents artistic expression and creativity. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

My fashion style is classic edgy, ideally my go-to outfit would consist of sharp colors, leather and lace. 

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

Self awareness is extremely important, I have not always been as confident with myself as I am currently, and I think it is important to recognize that especially as a young women. Everyday I make an effort to find my beautiful traits even if they are hidden some days. I want to be a role model to all girls and encourage them to be confident in themselves. 

What makes you beautiful?

I believe that my confidence and my kindness outshine the physical traits that I have. In order to have a beautiful outside, it’s so essential to have a compassionate heart and a caring soul. 

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

Look in the mirror everyday and say one good thing about your appearance and one good quality that you have. Keep lifting yourself up and do not compare your beauty to others, you are unique and beautiful.