Age: 19

Measurements:

Waist: 31

Hips: 44

Bust: 36

Height: 5’5

Weight: 121 lb

Hair/Eye Color: Brown/ Brown

 

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

I am Ashleen Ainembabazi. I am a civil engineering/ business major at Montgomery College Maryland. My native country is Uganda and has recently just moved to the states. Modeling and entertainment have always been an interest of mine since a young age, especially fashion because it was a way that I expressed how I felt. Unfortunately, due to a lack of exposure and resources, I wasn't able to fully explore my opportunities but now I am in the position to do so to the best of my ability.

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I have not had much experience in the industry due to the fact that every agency that scouted me before would either require classes or prior experience. Fortunately, I have completed my classes with Barbizon USA and John Casablanca. I now feel confident enough to venture out on my own.

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to be a representative for women of color through my platform by being able to influence them positively through mental health campaigns partnered with fashion and entertainment-related ventures. I’d also like to work for big companies and brands that make an impact on the world such as Fenty Beauty, Vogue, Cartier among others.

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

Being your own kind of beautiful is fighting against society’s norms of unrealistic beauty standards by being able to accept yourself truly with all the flaws and imperfections of the world.

How would you describe your fashion style?

My fashion style mostly depends on my mood because I like expressing myself through color and art. I think of it as an unsaid piece of art. Sometimes I love to be a girl and cute then other times elegant and sexy. If I don't feel like the outfit complements my character I will most probably change. Just as Rihanna says,” You can be better than me at everything but you can never beat my outfit.”

Who or what inspires you?

My biggest inspiration is my mom, she effortlessly shows me that I should be strong and deserving of the world because I have so much positivity to give out. Rihanna has also been one of the inspirations not only because she is beautiful and successful but her ability to be authentic to herself through the inclusion of people from all walks of life, races, religions in all her campaigns is very inspiring.

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

Keep focused and motivated, you might not get the job today but keep positive that you will one day.

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

Being able to be confident in my skin and not compare myself to others has always been a struggle but once you realize you are who you are and the thoughts of your imperfections in relation to different people won’t make me feel any better but rather owning them and making them your brand is what will attract people to you. 

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

I believe what makes me beautiful is my ability to always try to approach every hurddle I face in life with an empathic attitude. My motto is to treat your neighbor how you'd like to be treated.

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

Keep your head up, it's okay to struggle because everyone is struggling with something but if you approach life with positivity and perseverance you will see yourself in a greater life. Confidence is a process of being kind to yourself because you are definitely worth it.