By Jenni Sellen | @jennisellan
In her mind, she has always been.
In his mind she always was.
The journey of self-discovery and transformation is one that requires courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. For many, the experience of aligning one’s physical, mental, and spiritual self marks a profound and deeply personal transition. In fact, this is something you find with a lot of aspiring transgender supermodels.
This is the story of an individual embracing a new chapter, stepping into a life that is intentional and determined. At 27 years old, there is a sense of experiencing life for the first time—of finally being aligned in every aspect. This is a journey shared by many who aspire to model and contribute to the evolving conversation around diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry.
Moments of wonder and awakening accompany this transformation, each new experience illuminating the path forward. These moments are contagious, radiating a newfound enthusiasm for life. However, this journey has not been without its challenges. Reinventing oneself is no small feat, especially when faced with societal expectations and personal battles that once made the dream seem unattainable.
A rural upbringing, academic achievements, corporate success, and meaningful relationships all formed the foundation of an external persona. Yet beneath the surface, an undeniable truth persisted—a longing to embrace an identity that had remained hidden for years.
The decision to embrace authenticity was both the most vulnerable and empowering moment. The transformation began at 25, culminating in a sense of completion by 27. Alongside this personal evolution came a deep passion for fashion and modeling, initially as a means of building confidence but ultimately as a vehicle for purpose and self-expression.
Beyond fashion, wellness and nutrition have become integral aspects of this journey. Pursuing an Honours degree in Dietetics, engaging in various photoshoots, and working on an upcoming autobiography are all steps toward a multidimensional and holistic life.
The conversation around diversity in fashion has fluctuated over the years, sometimes taking a backseat to other pressing global issues. Yet, the need for representation remains as crucial as ever. In a world that continues to evolve, individuals who have navigated personal transformation are uniquely positioned to reignite this conversation and push for a more inclusive industry.
The message is simple yet layered with complexity: we must embrace who we truly are. This philosophy is not just a mantra but a guiding principle that shapes decisions, opportunities, and the paths we choose to follow.
Breaking boundaries and challenging norms, this journey is one of determination and limitless possibility. The support of loved ones has been invaluable, particularly from family members who have offered unwavering encouragement, emotional support, and financial assistance throughout the transition.
Challenges have included letting go of past relationships and patiently awaiting physical changes. Yet, the rewards far outweigh the struggles—growing into the person that was always meant to be and forming new, meaningful connections.
The transition has led to multiple opportunities, from law school offers to psychology and fashion design courses. However, the fashion and wellness industries hold the deepest appeal, as both revolve around self-love and acceptance. While commercialism and misleading marketing can sometimes overshadow these core messages, the essence of these industries is about empowerment and well-being.
Diversity and inclusion in fashion are about accurate representation. People of all sizes, shapes, backgrounds, and identities deserve to see themselves reflected in the industry. True representation promotes self-acceptance and gives others permission to embrace their unique identities.
The goal is to be a role model, standing up for the right to individuality and authenticity. Life is about following personal desires and embracing one’s true self, despite societal expectations. Suppressing one’s true identity leads to pain, whereas embracing it fosters fulfillment and genuine connections.
As for the future, the path remains open. Immediate goals include publishing an autobiography, pursuing further studies in nutrition and dietetics, and continuing a career in fashion modeling. The long-term vision is still unfolding, but one thing remains certain—learning, growing, and sharing wisdom will always be at the core.
For anyone facing seemingly insurmountable challenges in discovering their true self, the advice is simple: pay attention to what you are naturally drawn to. Trust that your body and intuition will guide you in the right direction. Avoid overanalyzing or seeking external validation—true answers come from within. Embrace each step as it comes and allow life to unfold as it is meant to be.
