Age: 20

Measurements

Waist: 24.5

Hips: 33

Bust: 31

Height: 5’4

Weight: 107

Hair/Eye Color: Black

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

Hi! My name is Tinofara Mararike. I am from Paxton Massachusetts, I’m 20 years old and a full time college student. I enjoy shopping, restaurants, spending time with the people I love, and listening to music. 

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I’ve always wanted to be a model but I did not actually start until a little over a year ago. I started doing test shoots with friends who own a camera and I’ve also worked with a couple professional photographers. 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to inspire others and let people know that anything is possible and that everyone is beautiful. Societal “beauty standards” are oftentimes unattainable and unrealistic and do not determine your worth. Not fitting in to them does not make you “ugly” or “unworthy” and everyone has something special about them regardless. 

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

To be your own kind of beautiful means to be authentically you. It means to be confident in yourself and knowing that you are beautiful whether or not you fit into “”societal beauty standards” or have eurocentric features. There is not “one” kind of beauty. Everyone has special and unique features and being your own kind of beautiful is embracing them and everyone around you. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

I would describe my fashion style as “classy, chic, with a little bit of edge.” I love dressing up in heels and a cute mini dress, I also love a good pant suit, and love oversized tshirts, hoodies, and cargo pants. My style changes depending on my mood and I love switching it up. 

Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by people who are authentic and live their truth. People who don't let other people's opinions hold too much weight on their lives and truly do what makes them happy. People who are  secure within themselves and radiate a positive and loving aura, and are kind to everyone around them. 

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

My advice would be to go for test shoots. It's great practice and helps you build confidence behind a camera and helped me gain confidence in my life as well. There is something really special about going for a shoot and getting the photos back and seeing yourself as the beautiful person that you are. 

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

For a long time I did not feel beautiful. I was incredibly insecure about my African features. I hated my wide nose and my plump lips. I hated my skin complexion and wished I was lighter. But as I grew older, and more representation of girls who looked like me appeared, I began to accept my features. And learned there is not one kind of beauty. And not having eurocentric features does not make you “ugly”. I also learned the importance of representation. Perpetuating the idea that there is one “ideal look” that is the most beautiful is incredibly harmful. Because it creates the idea that if you do not look a specific way then you're not good enough. And that's how I felt for a long time. But incorporating inclusivity and diversity sends the accurate message that everyone is beautiful, no matter what you look like, and no matter the shape and size. 

 

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

What makes me beautiful is my heart and soul. I love very hard and always uplift those around me. I routinely tell my loved ones how much I appreciate them and make it my mission to always be kind to everyone around me even if I am having a bad day. I accept everyone as they are and enjoy making others feel loved and beautiful. 

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

I would say to find things that make you feel happy and free. Even something as simple as putting on a cute outfit and going to sit in a coffee shop and do homework. Or going for a drive and blasting your favorite songs while screaming every lyric. Find good books and movies. Do a self deep dive and figure out who you are and what makes you feel your best. Once you spend a lot of time doing things that make you feel good- you will feel good about yourself.