Age: 26

Measurements:

Waist: 33”

Hips: 45”

Bust: 38.5”

Height: 5’7

Weight: 160

Hair/Eye Color: Black/brown

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

My name is Courtnie McCarthy. I was born in Columbus, Mississippi (not far from Jackson) and was raised in Norcross, GA in Gwinnett County. My stepfather at the time was an enlisted in the Army and shortly after I turned 10 years old, we all moved to Germany. My mom and I moved back to Norcross, and I finished out high school and went to Savannah State my freshman year and graduated from the University of West Georgia with a bachelor’s in Psychology.

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I have been modeling for approximately for 12 years now, but professionally for the past 5 years. I started off doing runway and I have walled in LA & New York Fashion week, and several fashion shows in Atlanta, Georgia as well as print and catalog work. I recently booked my first hair campaign for MyAvana in 2021. My journey has been nothing but a rollercoaster, but I am grateful for it all.

What is your biggest dream?

To continue to model and travel the world and meet new people. I would love to walk for LaQuan Smith one day. I want to see my face when you walk into Sephora, Ulta, Target, etc. and grace the covers of magazines.

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

Being your own kind of beautiful is loving and accepting yourself, flaws, and all! Being unapologetically you and not caring what people think or have to say about you will benefit you in more ways than one. We are unique and beautiful in our own way. Embrace it.

How would you describe your fashion style?

Honestly, I’m still trying to figure that out. I love wearing sundresses with some cute sandals, and I also love a good jumpsuit. I love the classy glamour look just as much as I love the over the top, bright colors with the sequins/glitter, feathers, all of that. I love how fashion does really have any rules. The key to rocking any outfit is confidence, even if you are wearing sweatpants and a T-shirt. When you feel good, you look good, you’ll do good.

Who or what inspires you?

I have a select group of friends that are models as well, we inspire each other, and I love that. My dreams and goals inspire me, and my faith & passion keeps me going. There have been several moments that I wanted to give up, but something inside of me allowed me to keep going. My dreams will become my reality. Speaking it to an existence.

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

If this is something that you are truly passionate about, you must stay focus and figure out what kind of modeling you’ll do well in. If there is a specific agency you want to be signed to, check out their website to see if you “fit” the look they’re looking for. Taking directions will save you. Modeling is an investment; you must keep your portfolio/digitals updated. It’s always good to have range but that will not guarantee you getting booked or signed. If you know someone that does photography reach and collaborate if you are on a budget. Go to network events, you’ll never know who you run into.

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

My insecurity got the best of me a few times. The modeling industry is so competitive. It’s about who you know now that will get to the top, but if you don’t really know anyone it can be very discouraging. Being a minority and having a darker complexion, I do feel like I had to work harder than those who fit the “beauty standard.” I’ve been rejected and have been told no so many times. I questioned myself if I was good fit or if I should give up, but I came too far to quit.

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

Honestly, not caring what others have to say has helped a lot! Self-care is so important. I am all about mental health, so if I feel like I need a day or two to disconnect I will do that w/o hesitation. I started working out consistently and changed my eating habits and I noticed a difference on how feel almost instantly. How you feel on the inside will show on the outside. Take care of you.

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

We are all human. We all have our good days and our bad days. Get a journal or write in in your notes on your phone on how you’re feeling. It’s good to let those negative feelings out. Having a support group really does help. I’m very big on prayer, so for those that believe in God, pray. Everything will be okay.