Age: 25

Measurements: 

Waist: 24

Hips: 34

Bust: 32

Height: 5'5

Weight: 105

Hair/Eye Color: Black/ Brown

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

My name is Mussuba but I go by just Mussu (Moo-Su). I am 25 years old and I live in Boston, MA but I was born in Guine-Bissau, West Africa. I am a graduate student studying Mental Health Counseling and have found it to be an extremely rewarding field of work for me. I thoroughly enjoy reading, traveling and fashion. 

Tell us about your modeling experience.

I have been modeling for four years now. The first show I ever did was on my 21st birthday where I was a part of African Fashion Week Boston (AFWB). This was the biggest show I have done, with a huge turnout of audience members. I have worked with many small local brands to model their jewelry, head scarves and clothing. In addition to that, I have done a tremendous amount of runway shows within the Boston community in the last four years. 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream in regards to the modeling world is to be on the cover of Vogue, Essence and to walk for Fashion Week in places like Paris, LA, NYC. Lastly, I would love to work with Naomi Campbell someday, she has always been an inspiration to me.

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

To be my own kind of beautiful means to be authentically myself no matter what. Beauty is not necessarily about one's physical attributes, but about one's mental and emotional attributes and the impact that they bring to outer space. You are beautiful when you make others (and yourself) feel good about themselves. You are beautiful when you embrace your imperfections. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

I would describe my fashion style to be simple, modern and chic incorporated with eccentric African styles. Most of the time, what I wear depends on what I am feeling... sometimes all it takes is for me to look at two items and  "That top looks good with this bottom... I will wear that" 

Who or what inspires you?

Everyone that I have come in contact with, who have elevated my mindset in some shape or form have inspired me. More specifically, my grandmother has definitely been an inspiration to me especially as a child. 

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

You are beautiful when YOU say you are. Do not wait for the industry to tell you that, instill that in yourself before embarking in the modeling world. Also, take lots of pictures to get you started. Do not take no for an answer, take it as a learning experience and come back stronger.

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

Most the obstacles that I overcame were due to sudden change. Even though I was raised here in Boston and lived here longer than I have lived anywhere, moving from Guine-Bissau to the USA as a young child has probably been my biggest obstacle and adjustment. However, it has opened my eyes to different perspectives and allowed me to see life in a broader lense.

What makes you beautiful/ handsome?

My ability to be kind but also straightforward. In addition to that, what makes me beautiful is my desire to want others to feel and be their beautiful selves no matter what. 

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

Confidence has to come from within. No one (not your mom, your dad, your cousin) can be confident for you. Millions of people can call you beautiful, amazing, smart and kind but it means absolutely nothing if you do not believe that yourself. If something doesn't feel good, work on it until you feel good about it- ultimately  take time to relearn about yourself in any way possible so that maybe you can learn to love your imperfections.