– You have become determined to shed light on issues and situations models face in the industry. What advice do you have for models afraid to publicly speak up about harmful situations they might face in the industry, and who might be fearful of repercussions against their careers?
I understand that fear, how crippling it can be, and I understand not everyone is in a place of privilege to speak out. Some girls come into the industry barely out of childhood, who might not know the language, or who don’t have a supportive network of family or friends nearby to give advice, love and a sense of self-worth to them. I would want them to, above all, always remember their worth. Remember that they are so much more than just a model, and they deserve to be treated with respect and to feel safe in work environments. Remember that you are not just a mannequin to hang clothes on, and you shouldn’t be treated like you are one. Your voice is worth so much more than you think, and you shouldn’t have to suffer in silence.
– You have also shared with the public stories about your struggles with mental health, and the rough impact this industry can have on a person’s psyche. Who or what has been your strength and motivator to forge ahead during those turbulent periods of time?
I never wanted my anxiety to be something that held me back in any aspect of my life, but especially in my career. For a long time, I kept it to myself, almost feeling shameful of it. But through sharing and having open conversations, I’ve found so much comfort; comfort in knowing that I’m not alone, and learning from others how they’ve gotten through hard and draining times. My mom has also been an enormous source of strength and motivation to me in my struggles. I grew up seeing how debilitating her panic attacks would be and how she fought through them to provide a better life for my siblings and me. I want to provide a better life for her now, and by working through my anxiety to not let it hinder my career, I know I’ll be able to.
– What else has worked for you to help you deal with the pressures of the industry?
I think distancing myself from the industry in my personal life has helped a lot with easing the pressures of it. The majority of my friends aren’t in the industry. I don’t live in a scene-y or hip neighborhood, and I try to retain a sense of normalcy in my personal life that might not exist in my professional one. I constantly remind myself of how privileged and blessed I’ve been, and how far God has brought me, and that comparison is the thief of joy. Also, seeing a therapist regularly and having the occasional glass of cabernet seem to be quite helpful as well!
– What do you feel needs to be done to ensure the safety and mental health of models are protected in this industry?
I think organizations like Model Alliance are doing a great job of helping bring awareness to the struggles models face, as well as advocating for new laws to help protect them. More people supporting organizations like that, or forming additional ones, would help create real change. The creation of a sort of human resources department or third party outreach where models could bring forth complaints and concerns in a safe and anonymous environment would do so much to help the safety and mental health of models as well. Also, people of privilege and power in the industry coming forward to advocate for those who can’t, would do wonders!