It’s been almost ten years since I first dipped my toes into the glamorous world of modeling back in Venezuela. I embarked on an adventure that led me to compete in an international beauty pageant in Brazil, where I proudly clinched the title of Miss Teen Best Model International 2016.
Fast forward to today, and I find myself back in the modeling world, but this time, I’m not just a wide-eyed teenager with dreams in her eyes. I’m a designer at LLM Design and a BFA in Design candidate at MassArt, balancing a full-time job and school, all while pursuing my interests in modeling. It’s quite the juggling act, to say the least.
My journey to this point has been nothing short of exhilarating. After my pageant win in Brazil, I had to press pause on modeling to travel to the US and start my studies. The world of graphic design beckoned, and I couldn’t resist its charms. My passion for art and design grew stronger with every passing day, and I decided to channel my creativity into a promising career. It was a choice that felt right, but my heart never truly abandoned my love for modeling.
Now, as a designer at LLM Design, I’ve found the perfect synergy between my two passions – design and art. The fashion industry and the world of design are inherently intertwined, and I’m thrilled to be part of a team that appreciates and encourages my dual aspirations.
Of course, this journey wouldn’t be complete without my return to school. I am a full-time student at MassArt which means I’m not just squeezing modeling gigs into an already busy schedule, but I’m also hitting the books with dedication. It’s challenging, no doubt, but it’s also exhilarating. Education, after all, is a lifelong pursuit, and my graphic design studies are deepening my understanding of aesthetics and visual communication, which, in turn, informs my modeling choices.
Balancing work, school, and modeling is no walk in the park. My days are a whirlwind of meetings at LLM, lectures on design principles, and photo shoots that stretch well into the night. But, the excitement I feel when I slip into those couture gowns and step onto the runway is unparalleled. It’s a part of my identity that is an integral part of who I am and what makes me happy.
One thing that has changed over the years is my perspective. Modeling isn’t just about pretty faces and striking poses anymore. It’s about celebrating diversity, challenging stereotypes, and using fashion as a means of self-expression. I hope to contribute to this movement by bringing my unique blend of design sensibilities and modeling experience to the table.
So, here I am, a young designer navigating the demanding schedule of work, school, and modeling, while chasing my dreams with unwavering determination. It’s a challenging road, but it’s my road, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m ready to make my mark in the world, one runway at a time.
With dreams in my heart and a pencil in my hand.
Genesis Gonzalez
Designer & Social Media Manager
