Tell us about yourself.

I am Rionne but I also go by Ri. I’m from Raleigh, North Carolina, but I’m also a proud Nigerian. I’m 20 years old

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to represent one of the biggest international modeling agency’s in the world, preferably IMG Models.

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

To me, being your own kind of beautiful means to love yourself and upgrade yourself times 10 every time you conquer a challenge in your life. Whenever you get through something, you should flourish after that because that let’s people know nothing can stop you from embracing your beauty and loving yourself.

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

What first peaked my interest was when my aunt, who was a former model with Marilyn agency in New York made me walk around the house in heels with a heavy book on my head until I could keep it on my head while cat-walking. After that, I modeled on and off since 2nd grade but during the end of my junior year in high school I decided to be serious with it especially after my first photoshoot ever with Jonathan Okafo. When I saw my very first photos he shot, I couldn’t believe how photogenic I was. We have so much chemistry when we create art together. Ever since then, I’ve done a number of photoshoots and fashion shows with a handful of photographers, directors, and designers.

What is your dream brand to model for?

Versace

How would you describe your fashion style?

Chic

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

Self-awareness and confidence is extremely important to me in my everyday life because there was a point in my life where I did not love myself due to me having been through a lot, including bullying. Modeling is what changed me as a woman because it helped me re-attain that self-love and confidence I once had before moving from my hometown. I started to realize that everything about me that people made fun of, is what gets the attention of casting directors, photographers, and agents. Gracefully, I learned how to not care about what anyone else thinks of me while inspiring them in the process. I learned to love all of my features and to me they aren’t flaws, they are what make me and my look unique. I may bend sometimes, but I felt like I had to show everyone around me that I can never be broken.

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

What makes me beautiful is my big personality, because it can either intimidate you or draw you towards me, depending on the kind of person you are. The reason why I say that is because I am very opinionated and depending on their open-mindedness some people appreciate that realness, while others may not. I can also be very expressive and flamboyant when it comes to discussing topics I’m really interested in and that is also another appealing trait that draws people to me. Lastly, the fact that I can and have overcome every obstacle that comes my way is what especially makes me beautiful.

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

I would tell them to keep their head up through every single challenge they go through in life because it doesn’t get any easier. Put you first, and everything else will fall into place.