Age: 22

Measurements: 

Waist: 28

Hips: 40

Bust: 34

Height: 5’ 7.5

Weight: 135

Hair/Eye Color: Ombre (Brunette to blonde)/ Blue

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

Hey everyone! My name is Soleii. I'm 22 years old, and was born in Hawaii where my father was stationed in the military. We moved to Maryland when I was about two or three and have been here ever since! I currently attend, and play soccer for, the Community College of Baltimore County and I’m getting my associates degree in legal studies! I have been a freelance model (up until now!) and can't wait to see what the future holds for me.

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I participated in a bridal show for Elite Secrets Bridal, as well as for Chic & Pretty. I have modeled for numerous designers in DCFW and have done a photo shoot with Salman Hayes (one of the designers from DCFW.). I enjoy collaborations with photographers in the DMV and was recently published in Pendida Magazine! 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to make it as a model, and to turn modeling into my full time job. A job doing what you love won't feel like a job at all. The feeling I get while behind a camera, or looking towards an audience displaying someones hard, beautiful work, is unlike any feeling in the world. I want to do what makes me happy and this is it. I want to be a recognized model that kids can look up to and I want to be able to inspire all of them to think big, because anything is possible if you work for it. 

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

Being your own kind of beautiful means to be confident and to uplift others. To me, beauty shines from the inside out. Being able to uplift and inspire others is beautiful to me. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

Where do I start! I love many different styles and flip through them every day! I can't stick with one style since I love them all and love experimenting when putting together outfits. I'd say that my go-to style would be chic and modern though, with a touch of flirty. 

Who or what inspires you?

What inspires me, and propels me forward, is me. Your future is what you make it, and I want to work hard and get to where I want to be. Opportunities don't just pop up, you need to work for it. I can't wait to see where I take myself, and I’ll know that I got there by believing in myself. 

What is your advice to someone who is just getting started with modeling?

My advice to new models is to be patient with yourself! Things don't just happen overnight and you should never give up. There's going to be good days and bad days, but it's important to know that today is what you make it. Learning new poses, going to auditions, and learning how to walk on a runway are all things that need to be practiced, so don't be hard on yourself if you don't get the hand of it immediately. If you don't get the job after an audition, think about it as a positive. Know that every time you fail and succeed, it's going to be a learning experience that will only make you better. 

Describe some obstacles you have overcome in your life and how that has changed or shaped you.

I think one of the obstacles I've encountered and overcome was not having a car, or a license, until this year. I know that it's common but it really hindered me from being able to get to where I needed to for school and work, and not to mention hanging out with friends. I missed out on a lot of opportunities. I had to use public transportation everywhere I went since I was eighteen, and in those years, I learned the importance of time management and patience. There were several times I would miss the bus or train because I was late, and others when I got there on time, if not earlier, but saw the bus drive right past me. It was definitely a struggle but it taught me to be timely and how to plan accordingly. 

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

I think what makes me beautiful is my sense of humor and my smile! Even when I'm having a bad day, I'll put a smile on my face and stay positive and move forward. I feel like my smile paired with my sense of humor is what really portrays my bubbly personality. I find that no matter what someone is going through, a simple smile can brighten up their whole day. 

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

I would remind them that they are BEAUTIFUL and STRONG even if they don't feel like they are. I would say that they should start picking out the qualities they like about themselves and dwell on them as opposed to tearing themselves down over the things they don’t. Just remember there is only one you, so be kind to yourself.