Age: 18

Measurements: 

Waist: 24”

Hips: 36”

Bust: 34”

Height: 5’3

Weight: 119

Hair/Eye Color: Hazel

Most frequented social media platform:

Instagram

Tell us about yourself

I am 18 years old. I was born in the Philippines and immigrated to Minnesota when I was one. I am currently working in an elementary school as a paraprofessional. My favorite hobby is creating art while listening to audiobooks. My favorite art mediums are compressed charcoal, ink, and oil paints. My top three genres for audiobooks are philosophy, historical fiction, and horror. Other than my love for modeling I also have a love for anime and music. 

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I started modeling in 2020 on a whim. I honestly thought I’d have no shot at it since I‘m 5’3 and rarely saw mixed-race girls as models growing up.  Over time I started shooting with more and more local creatives and built my confidence. I’ve met so many talented and supportive people with the same passion for art as me. My journey has made me grow in so many ways and I’m grateful for how far I’ve come. 

What is your biggest dream?

My dream is to be on the cover of Vogue or walk in the NYFW. 

What does it mean to be your kind of beautiful?

I think it’s to understand the unique qualities of yourself and embrace them. 

How would you describe your fashion style?

I would say my fashion is very fluid. It changes with my mood, the seasons, and the times. 

Who or what inspires you?

Probably not what you’re expecting but Luffy from One Piece. Around a year ago I was having a lot of issues with my health and it was difficult doing day-to-day things. I spent a lot of time in bed watching the anime One Piece. Luffy has unwavering determination, strong empathy, and compassion for others, and goes through life carefree. When I’m overthinking everything I try to think like him. When I want to skip the gym or a meal I think of his determination. There have been many times when I debated quitting modeling. It’s been my dream since I was young. Luffy has the dream to become the king of the pirates and he doesn’t stop regardless of any obstacles. That’s why I’m still modeling.

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

It can be extremely intimidating but remember everyone has started something new. Be proud of yourself for taking that shot. Don’t look at rejections as failures, if you never try you’ll never know how far you can make it.

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

One of the hardest points of my life was my senior year. I was battling my mental health at the time and was getting physically sick. I lost 20 lbs and developed cystic acne. I missed over half of my school year and many days out with friends. After many visits to the doctor, the only thing I found out was that I’m fructose intolerant. I started cutting out fructose, eating 3 meals a day, simplifying my skincare, and transitioning into being able to exercise. It sounds easy on paper but my mental health was at an extreme low. It took a lot of failing and picking myself back up. Now I’m able to work full-time, hang out with friends, and go to the gym. I am incredibly grateful for everything I have and make it a point to not take things for granted. I’ve learned to love myself through the hardships and I’ve found my peace. 

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

I’ve worked on myself a lot mentally and physically. I believe putting in the work to better yourself will make you beautiful from the inside out. 

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

Look in the mirror and voice every minuscule detail that you love about yourself. When the little voice in your head tells you something negative rebuttal it with a positive. You have to actively work on loving yourself. It’s a daunting process but eventually, everything will become natural.