Adriana D.
Tell us about yourself:
I am a Georgia native, born and raised in Atlanta. My parents are also both Georgia natives. I have a total of six siblings. I am in my senior year of online high school. I should be completely finished in March 2023 with a GPA of hopefully close to a 4.0. My aspirations are to go to college for prenatal nursing, but if my modeling career takes off, that will determine when I start attending college. I love to sing and play the piano. Travel and fashion are also my passion.
Tell us about your modeling experience:
My love for fashion and modeling started as a young girl who would play dress-up with my grandmother's clothes and high heel shoes. My cousin and I would style our dolls' hair, and we would practice our walks. This led to my grandmother putting us in our first local runway show at the age of seven. I continued doing local runway shows with LUXE Fashion on two other occasions. At the age of 16, I started pursuing my modeling career more seriously. I have much gratitude for the MGF Modeling Agency out of New York, helping aspiring models in Atlanta, like myself, get free lessons with hopes of our dreams in the industry coming true. A local group of her models did a swimsuit ad for a magazine. I was also featured in GLITZ magazine in the October 2022 issue.
What is your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to do runway shows in NY and Milan and Paris, all around the world for big name designers. I also would love print modeling for fashion magazines. Once I master the skill, I would like to do some acting work. My ultimate dream is to own my own clothing line. I also want to be a voice and help others who are less fortunate in this world.
What does it mean to be your own kind of beautiful?
Beauty comes from within and not really how others see you, even though as a model, people want to see both. I think your personality is what makes you beautiful. Self confidence is also so important because it shows your unique beauty. No matter the color of your skin, eyes or hair, the size of your body, each of us are different and can bring out something nobody else can.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I love a variety of styles, streetwear, punk, chic and high end fashion. I love a good pair of jeans, mini skirts and a crop top. My favorite color is black.
Who or what inspires you?
My mother inspires me. She is so supportive of my goals and dreams. My mother teaches me to be independent, like herself. She teaches me good morals and values. I'm also inspired by famous people like Tyler Perry, who rose up from being homeless, with many obstacles, to building an empire in the film industry. He is also a local native to Atlanta. Adut Akech is also an inspiration to me. She is a Sudanese model who has been given an opportunity in this industry to show her talents, as well as many models that don't usually fit the look designers in the past were looking for. This has now opened the door to so many models. They inspire me to never give up because hard work can pay off and you never know when your opportunity will come.
What is your advice to someone who is just getting started with modeling?
Most of us are not born into a privileged household with famous parents that can get us right in the door. We don't have a lot of money to pay for expensive photographers and outfits for our portfolios. We can't afford to fly across the world for casting calls. My advice is to not give up. You may have to start small by doing local shows without getting paid. You might have to invest in a camera and do some of your own photography. Never give up on your dreams but also have support and follow those who have made it in the industry and see their journey. Take advantage of all your opportunities.
Describe some obstacles you have overcome in your life and how that has changed or shaped you?
My mother is a single parent in our household. I see the struggles she goes through on a daily basis. My father is not very active in my life and has 3 other children. I long to have close bonding relationships as I get older and that might affect whom I choose to be in my inner circle. I have been in online school for the past three years and I study at home. This limits who I meet and associate with. There are times that can get lonely. These obstacles have shaped me into being a more mature and responsible person for my age. I have great role models that keep me active and grounded.
What makes you beautiful/handsome?
Besides my hazel eyes that make up only 5 percent of the population, I love me!! I am a kind person. I have empathy for others and love to show generosity when I am able. My personality is what makes me beautiful.
What would you say to another girl/guy your age who is struggling with their confidence?
Look at the positive things about yourself. Do not let what others say or think determine how you feel about yourself. Focus more on the inner person not on the outside. If you can make improvements, then make them. Embrace the things you are insecure about. Invest in what can help build you up like clothes, hairstyles, etc., but Love You!! If you are an aspiring model or actor and need more confidence, practice, practice and attend workshops, whatever it takes to improve your skills.
