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22 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 70MOSTMAGAZINEWHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MODELING, AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?I%u2019ve always had a strong desire to pursue modeling, but finishing my education was a top priority. I wanted to have a solid foundation before diving into a career as unpredictable as modeling. During my final semester of my master%u2019s program in occupational therapy, I had the opportunity to complete a three-month internship in Miami in 2015. While living there, I embraced the city%u2019s vibrant energy, focusing on fitness and healthy eating, which sparked my confidence to explore the possibility of modeling. I decided to set up a few photoshoots to start building my portfolio.After graduating that December, I made a bold move back to Miami in early 2016 with the goal of getting signed to an agency. The journey wasn%u2019t easy%u2014rejections came one after another, and I often questioned whether I had what it took. Just as I was about to give up and move back home, I decided to take one last chance and visit another agency. That meeting changed everything. Nine months after moving to Miami, I was offered a contract on the spot! It was such a surreal moment, a blend of relief and excitement. From there, my career took off, and it%u2019s been an incredible journey ever since.Looking back, I realize how much persistence and faith in myself made all the difference. The challenges I faced taught me resilience, and I%u2019m grateful for every step that led me to this point. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MODELING, AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?Growing up in a small town in Alabama gave me a unique perspective on the fashion and wellness industries. In a place where community and simplicity are highly valued, I learned the importance of authenticity and staying grounded. Fashion wasn%u2019t a big focus where I grew up, so I didn%u2019t feel the pressure to fit into trends or certain standards. Instead, I developed a genuine sense of self-expression and creativity that continues to influence my approach to style. When it comes to wellness, small-town living taught me the value of balance and a connection to nature. I grew up surrounded by home-cooked meals and outdoor activities, which laid the foundation for my commitment to health and well-being. These roots keep me centered in industries that can sometimes feel fast-paced or superficial, and they remind me to stay true to myself while promoting authenticity and balance to others. YOUR CAREER HAS TAKEN YOU FROM NEW YORK TO MIAMI AND NOW LOS ANGELES. HOW HAS EACH CITY INFLUENCED YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY?Each city has played a unique role in shaping both my personal and professional journey, offering valuable lessons and opportunities along the way. New York was where I learned the value of hustle and perseverance.22 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 70Photographer - Vivian Arthurwww.lovetalent.com/print/30-gilda-joelleIG: @gildajoelle