Embracing Beauty Beyond Boundaries: An Interview with Plus-Size Model Cherella…
In the ever-evolving world of fashion and modeling, breaking through conventional standards of beauty is a powerful and inspiring journey.
Cherella, a 29-year-old mother with a remarkable story, is a shining example of this transformation. We had the privilege to sit down with her and discuss her path to the modeling industry, her experiences, and her thoughts on the evolving landscape of body diversity and inclusivity in the Netherlands.
PMM: Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in the modeling industry?
Cherella: I got started when my daughter was a couple of months old. I had always been very insecure but when we got asked to do a photo shoot together for a magazine, the photographer told me about plus-size modeling. (I had never heard about plus-size modeling before)
I sent over my pictures to an agency and I was lucky enough to get started with them.
PMM: What challenges did you face when you first started your modeling career, and how did you overcome them?
Cherella: My first job was abroad, I was so nervous! But I’m glad my first job was a big one because I was thrown into the deep end and had to just figure it out.
PMM: How do you define self-confidence, and how has your journey in modeling impacted your self-confidence?
Cherella: To me self-confidence is walking into a room, not giving a dang about what anyone thinks of you! Walking through that door and thinking I am going to rock this, regardless of what others think of me.
Modeling helped me boost my self-confidence. It helped me to see myself differently. But also, it gave me a boost seeing myself doing things I would never in my life thought I would. Like posting pics in my underwear and having my bum in bus stops all over town!
PMM: Many people struggle with body image issues. What advice would you give to individuals looking to boost their self-esteem and embrace their unique beauty?
Cherella: I have always been insecure about myself, regardless of my body. I have been in so many sizes and it was never good enough.
People always had something to complain about!
It is very easy to say but I recommend to not listen to others opinions unless you asked for them.
Also, I stopped following pages that made me feel insecure. Why would you follow them when it makes you feel bad? Create your own safe space, and follow what/who makes you happy or inspires you!!
PMM: The modeling industry often has a narrow beauty standard. How do you think the industry is evolving to be more inclusive of diverse body types and ethnicities?
Cherella: I’m truly happy that it has become more inclusive but we still aren’t there at all!
I remember not knowing about plus size modeling nine years ago, and not knowing where to shop. If I compare that to these days, we already are some steps further.
But we still need a lot more representation in the fashion and modeling industry. Sometimes I feel like some brands just did it to be part of the movement and now just totally forgot about it and just keep on going where they left.
PMM: What do you believe are the most significant changes you’ve seen in the modeling industry regarding body diversity during your career?
Cherella: Seeing the clothes that I get to wear during shoots has evolved. When I started it was not fashionable and was so different from regular sizes. Now I see so much improvement and there is so much more that I would wear myself.
PMM: How do you handle criticism or negative comments on social media, and what advice would you give to other models who may face online bullying or body-shaming?
Cherella: To be honest, I don’t get a lot of negativity. But when I do, I read it and immediately let it go.
The fact that someone took the time to write me something mean is just pathetic to me. I know it is the risk of posting things online and you need to check for yourself before you post if you can handle any of that.
Or just: Don’t read and delete! 😉
PMM: In your opinion, where would you like to see the modeling industry in terms of body diversity and inclusivity in the next five years?
Cherella: I would love to see more sizes available in regular stores. I would love for plus-size styles to be more affordable.
Also, I would love to see bigger sizes just hanging in the store next to the regular ones instead of having a small department somewhere in the back of the store.
PMM: Finally, what’s your message to aspiring plus-size models who are looking to break into the industry and make a positive impact on the world of fashion?
Cherella: Just do you! Don’t do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. Always stay close to yourself. Don’t let social media get you down.
And just take every chance you get; you never know where it could lead you to.
And don’t listen to others. Never let small minds convince you that your Dreams Are Too Big!!
Follow Cherella on Instagram
IG @cherellarowena
Photographer:
Milton Franklyn Goedhoop
IG @mfg_prophoto
FB @MiltonFranklynGoedhoop
miltongoedhoop.com