Lexis W.

Measurements:

Height 5’5”

Waist 28”

Hips 35”

Bust 32”

Tell us about yourself

Hi, my name is Lexis W, I am 19 years old and I am from Orlando  Florida. I am an aspiring model that will be able to use modeling to be  an advocate for chronically ill, disabled, or people with medical devices. I  am also an aerialist and have been participating in the arts since I was 9  years old. 

Tell us about your modeling experience 

When I was 12 years old I got signed to a modeling agency called BMG. I  was able to do many shoots for magazines and advertisements and I  loved it. I modeled with this agency until I was about 15 until I sadly had to stop for a while. I have eagerly been trying to get back to doing  something I love and am so excited to have this opportunity again. 

What's your biggest dream? 

My biggest dream is to be able to represent people like me that might  be chronically ill or disabled or have to use medical devices to live their  lives. I know with these struggles it can be very difficult to feel  beautiful and I want to be able to show people that it is still possible. 

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

To me this means that you are able to see yourself for all of your  strengths instead of all of your flaws and so you are able to feel  amazing about yourself in your own skin.

How would you describe your fashion style? 

I would describe my style as comfortable and closest to the grunge  category 

Who or what inspires you? 

I think something that inspires me the most is all of my friends and  people I've gotten to know within the chronically ill community. I truly  believe every one of those people are the strongest people I've ever met  and I believe we deserve more representation in the media. 

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

I would tell them to not get discouraged if you don't get many jobs  right away. I would also tell them to not try and make themselves fit  into the box of stereotypes. You don't need to only be tall and skinny to  be successful. Also to have fun! 

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

The biggest obstacle I've had to overcome in my life was when I got sick  2 years ago. lt took everything away from me which was the hardest  thing I had to deal with. I couldn't do aerial anymore, I couldn't go to  school, and I couldn't even eat by myself anymore. This has changed a lot  about me but most importantly how strong I've needed to become.

What makes you beautiful/handsome? 

I think something that makes me beautiful is how I look even with  my medical devices on full display 

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

I would tell them something that really helps me when I'm struggling. I  always try to remind myself that some days are going to be harder than  others, and its okay to have days when you are less confident than others,  but the way you look and the way you think are unique and is loved by so many people. And I know it’s easier said than done but, your body and  mind are uniquely yours so why waste your time hating it when you could  become comfortable in your own skin.