Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Thomas
Hi Michelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began modeling in 2014 with the help of my best friend Keith. He was a member of Faces Modeling Troupe, Inc., at the time and convinced me to audition not knowing it was something that I wanted to do! I didn’t try out initially because I wasn’t confident in myself. He encouraged me to go and I’m glad that he did! I modeled for 2 years on campus at Bethune-Cookman University and stopped in 2016 once I graduated. I began modeling in 2021 during COVID but I started believing in myself more than ever! I met a photographer and he helped me along the way even til this day. His name is Raudney Scott and he helped me get my first publication as a new model with Publica International Fashion Magazine. Which lead to many publications with this magazine. I did many local fashion shows with Wendell and he pushed me to be my best when it came to modeling. I did my first international runway show in Mexico 2023 with the help of my fellow model family. I connected with models from Jacksonville and they treat me as family since the day I met them. It’s amazing how people see you when you don’t even see yourself. I now am a director in Central Florida for C.Smith Modeling Company and a member of Yesdnilco. Im grateful for these amazing teams I’m apart of, God knows how to bring the people you need in your corner. I’m on my way to model in New York Fashion Week come September 13 of this year and my biggest accomplishment from modeling will be walking in Paris Fashion Week the weekend of September 28th with Jewels Empire Ent and Alegre De Pilipinas! I honestly don’t how far I would’ve made it without that support of my family, model family, friends and having confidence in myself. I’ve made the connections and continue to network with amazing models, coordinators and more. I continue to believe in God and myself! I know I wouldn’t have made it this far without my support system and constant want for knowledge in this industry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This journey has not been smooth sailing at all but the things you want out of life will always come with challenges! On my journey I’ve had photographers not give me good work in return for my time or they have taken longer than expected with photos than we have agreed on. I have been scammed during my process and people even now still try to scam others so I educate other models about that especially when first starting out. I’ve scouted for agencies that don’t have my best interest and only tried to get money out of me. I’ve even been apart of shows where I’ve been forgotten about as far as a model but I never let these get me down. Everything we do in life has a lesson just make sure you’re learning along the way
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m currently a real estate agent servicing the Orlando and Ocala area. I’ve been an agent for a year now and it’s something that I’ve been passionate about! It’s one way to have the freedom I desire out of life. I’m most proud because I was able to get my license in 3 months and passed on my first try, many people are not able to get so lucky.
What sets me apart is that I don’t let the limitations of others determine my life.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson that I’ve learned is that the people who are for you and support you will always find their way to you in special way and when you need it most. We can’t make it alone and we’re never alone even if we feel that way. We never know what is working in our favors due to hard work and dedication.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michelledenise?igsh=cDd6dzFjdGU3eTdw&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.thomas.7758?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/mastermind_haven?igsh=MW1tcGhoODNrdDI3dQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
