Models Of The Carolinas Takeover Special Edition

NOT THE CITY GIRLS IT’S EASLYN

CH3DDA

MOE southernplugmagazine.weebly.com

DIVA,SAVAGE

& THE MODELS OF THE

CAROLINAS ARE SET TO TAKE

REALITY TV BY STORM

MODELS OF THE CAROLINAS TAKEOVER EDITION

14 FEATURES

Fredrico Harrell 6 Pride Release 8 Savage 14 Runway Model Diva 16 Ms. Chocolate 18 Nivia 20 Angyl Lee 22 Lady L 24

STAPLES

For The Artist Artist Spotlite Southern Girl

12

3 4 14

Want To Advertise Your Brand In The Dopest Magazine In The South ?

(803) 638-9386 Photo Credits: Cover: Full Effect Designs & Images

Page 18 & 22: Lamont Johnson

Page 2,10,11,12,13,20 Page 3: Shots By BC Page 8: Geniqua Carter & Dyamond Huntaz

6

3

For The Artist

By The Artist Easlyn is a duo of super talented baddies from Brooklyn, Ny and Atlanta, GA. Rye & Xinnoa come together to make some of the dopest music coming out of the south. They have already had minor success with their records “Miss Me” & F*ck Em”. But, now they are taking things to a whole nother level with their latest single “Tik Tok” which we here at Southern Plug thinks has the ability to go all the way!

Booking

Info

www.lnk.to/FCKEMMN IG:@therealeaslyn @xin_noa @baddierye

FB: @therealeaslyn

Latest Tape

3

16

Artist Spotlite

“Ch3dda is ready to take the rap scene and music industry head on.”

orn Victor M. Keitt on November 11, 1992, Moe Chedda was born into the lineage of great singers being a descendant of the famous singer, Eartha Kitt. Chedda remembers always having a love for music but didn’t really become a reality until he made his mark on the music scene with the home based rap group Money Mobb. Their first mixtape, titled “Watch Me Grind” (SoundCloud), got the attention of local listeners with its true stories of the streets by which they were raised. The mixtape includes the smash hit, “Let’s Go Get Us Some Money”, which created a huge buzz for the group and is still one of the group’s most popular songs to date. Because of this, Ch3dda created momentum to make waves with freestyles such as “2 Trained” (YouTube) and “Popping Shit” (YouTube). These freestyles showcased his versatility with lyrics, his quick witted metaphors, and his ease in capturing punchlines. In 2018 he released his first solo project “Two Glocks”. This album features the smash hit “Quit Cappin”, produced by super producer Jetson. Also, another smash hit captured on this project is “Gangstas Move in Silence”. In 2021, Ch3dda had the opportunity to link up with the Super Producer “Cooly on da Beat” in Atlanta, Georgia. They spent quite a bit of time at the well known historical studio, Patchwerk recording new material. Together, Chedda and Super Producer “Cooly on the beat” started creating a new project that is expected to be released sometime in 2022. Chedda has positioned himself to take over the music industry with a new single entitled “Asshole” from his new project “Traptism.” Ch3dda is ready to take the rap scene and music industry head on. Music is what he loves the most. Chedda is in the process of finishing and releasing several new projects so stay tuned. Chedda is definitely an artist to watch because he has music deep in his roots.

5 9

DANCER COACH INSTRUCTOR EDUCATOR INNOVATOR

6

redrico Harrell is a Native of Fairfield County. He graduated Fairfield Central High School in 2011. During his tenure at Fairfield Central High Fredrico was the first Male to dance on the Fairfield Central Golden Griffen Marching band. He graduated the top 30 out of his high school graduating class. After He graduated he went to pursue his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Dance at Johnson C Smith University! During his time at Johnson C Smith University He started 3 dance teams, had the opportunity to travel to New York, Atlanta, South Carolina, North Carolina where he performed with JCSU Dance repertory company!

He’s been afforded to perform for artists like Sevyn Streeter, Migos, YG, and Bridget Kelly. He also was the first male to graduate with his dance degree from Johnson C Smith University. Fredrico is currently a Dance teacher at Fairfield Middle School where he is going into his 5th year as an educator. While working at Fairfield Fredrico started an Award winning dance team “Golden Sass” that traveled and competed in multiple competitions. Also while teaching at Fairfield Middle Fredrico Was the first male to teach heel classes in the South Carolina and North Carolina region at Fuzion Force Entertainment Academy. He also is the first male to teach dance in Fairfield County School district.

Fredrico Future plans are to Attend Winthrop University to receive his masters in counseling and development mental and clinical health. He also plans to open up his own dance studio to share his gift with the world. One quote that he lives by is “Don’t forget to love yourself, and always take pride in who you are” 7

ISSUE 2022 RELEASE JUNE 30, 2022 THE VETROPOLITAN RESTAURANT

8

9

JUNE 9, 2022 Greenville Marriott

10

11

MODELS OF THE CAROLINAS Models Of The Carolinas started out as group of super talented models from both North and South Carolina. They are known for their unique style and fierce presence on the runway. Killing any runway they've ever stepped on.

Now the ladies aim to attack reality TV with the the same fierceness as they've conquered the runway with. Six of the most gorgeous and talented models coming out of the Carolinas. Diva, Savage, Angyl Lee, Nivia, Ms. Chocolate, and Lady L are on their way to being household names and stamping their names in reality history right beside the likes of Phaedra Parks and a Joseline Hernandez.

12 18

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented savage the model of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. My name is Pamela Saunders. I'm originally from Washington DC, I currently reside in Indian Land SC. I am a Customer Service Agent during the week and a Master Barber Stylist on the weekend. I am a Mother of 2 young men, ages 25 and 30. I also have 8 Beautiful Grandkids, whom I Love Dearly. When I'm not working, I can be found Ripping the Runway! I have been Modeling for 5 years now and it's definitely my Dominating Passion.

Q. What inspired you to become a model?

A. I've always enjoyed being in front of the camera. Being a Hairstylist I've done numerous photo shoots and hair shows. So, why not add clothing! It also give me the opportunity to showcase my own Clothing Line, SAVAGE DESIGNS on the Runway.

Q. Being a model, what are the important tools that you learned through your experience in the industry?

A. I have learned that the industry can be very biased when it comes to Plus Size Models. As a Curvy, Plus Model I have to work harder than the average model. Plus size is still being frowned upon, and not seen as equal. We have to work extra hard to prove our worth and are constantly overlooked for work.

Q. Does Models of the Carolinas, have a manager? Or how do you all navigate through making decisions as far as setting goals for Models of the Carolinas as a group?

A. We do not have a manager. I don't feel we need one. We are a Sisterhood. Very rarely do we disagree on a decision for the group. We all want to see the group get the exposure we deserve and we are willing to go above and beyond to see that happen.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. My biggest Accomplishment was being featured on a Billboard for Curvy, Plus Size Models in Charlotte NC. I am also proud of a book I was featured in for Curvy Models that was Dedicated to the memory of Mrs.Rhonda Baker.

I have also done 2 Music Videos and been published in over 20 Magazines. I am also a Brand Ambassador for Dyamund Huntaz and Scorpionna's. I am Honored to have these accomplishments and look forward to many more to come.

14

Q. What is the biggest obstacle you've had to face in this industry?

A. Biggest obstacle for me is making sure Plus Size Models are given the Respect we Deserve. Beauty comes in all sizes and we should be on Covers of Magazines and in Swimsuit issues also.

Q. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what attributes or skills do you bring to the group/ And, also what would you say is your purpose for creating this platform?

A. I want women to see the Beauty, Confidence and Determination we represent. I hope that inspires them to fulfill their dreams. And not to allow anyone or anything to stop them from achieving their goals. When one door closes, another one opens. Stay Positive.

Q. What would you tell a little boy or girl just like you that maybe has dreams of following in your footsteps so to speak?

A. First they have to have confidence in themselves. They have to have thick skin in this industry...be able to accept rejection and move forward. Always stay Motivated.

Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. I think a successful relationship is possible with a Partner who supports your career 100%. They cant allow the industry to intimidate them and realize this is work for us.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

Q. We have something big in the works. It's Truly a Blessing. Continue to follow us for updates!

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?a. .Ok

that's it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas, savage the model. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. Facebook-Pamela Saunders IG-Savage_the_Model Youtube-Savage the Model Tictoc- Savage the Model

15

SOUTHERN OF THE MONTH

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented Tracy Runway Model Diva Newbill-Etheridge the model of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. Hello I am Tracy Newbill-Etheridge better known in the Fashion World as Runway Model Diva. The Model that brings personality to the Runway. I am a Bald Model that has an Autoimmune Disorder call Alopecia. Alopecia does not allow me to grow hair on the top of my head, and some parts of my body. I have Alopecia but Alopecia does not have me.

Q. What inspired you to become a model?

A. I was inspired to become a Model four years ago when I decided to shave my head and stop hiding behind my baldness with wigs, and head coverings; and be the person God created me to be; A Beautiful Bold Bald Sistah. I was invited to Baltimore, MD to be a featured Bald Model in a Alopecia Fashion Show. I went and had a modeling crash course by a season model before the show. From that Fashion Show my modeling career began.

Q. Being a model, what are the important tools that you learned through your experience in the industry?

A. Since being a Model I have learned to be yourself unapologetically. Have confidence in yourself, love the skin you in, and bring your own personality to the Fashion World.

Q. Do, Models of the Carolinas, have a manager, or how do you all navigate through making decisions as a group in setting goals for Models of the Carolinas?

A. Models of the Carolinas does not have a Manager. We work better by coming together with each other and discussing Show Schedules, Interviews, Photoshoots, or anything that we as a group decides to be apart of.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. My biggest accomplishments in the Model Industry is being the owner of my Online Store call Divas Boutique; a Boutique that specializes in Unique Fashions for all sizes. We also have Accessories and Body Sculpturing Tools and Oils. The Creator of Models of the Carolinas, a Brand of Seasoned Models that has a passion for the Fashion Industry. Being Published in several magazines, in several States; creating a Model group call the Runway Slayer Models, being a Brand Ambassador for Shapermint, becoming one of the Authors in a Plus Size Model Book call Curves by the late Rhonda Baker, and putting on a Annual Rip, Slay, & Demolish the Runway Fashion Show every year; in Greenville, SC. My influences is my Model Sisters; seeing them flourish in this Fashion Industry, makes me happy and excited to be alongside of them all.

Q. What is the biggest obstacle you've had to face in the industry?

A. The biggest obstacle for me has been not having enough time to participate in more Fashion Shows, Photoshoots, Workshops, or anything that has to do with Fashion.

Q. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what attributes or skills do you bring to the group/ And, also what would you say is your purpose for creating this platform?

A. I bring my unique personality and bubbleness to the Models of the Carolinas. Promoting Sisterhood, Empowerment, Confidence, and Positively; to everyone I meet.

Q. What would you tell a little boy or girl just like you that maybe has dreams of following in your footsteps so to speak?

A. I would tell them to stay Focus on your Dreams, Be consistent, and always Market yourself daily.

Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. No, only if you have someone that understands and is willing to support your dreams.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

A. Models of the Carolinas is gearing up for our 2023 scheduling with Reality Show Filming, Fashion Shows Entries, Magazine Covers and Submissions, Photoshoots, Interviews, Workshops, and many other activities within the Fashion Industry.

Q. Ok that's it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas, Ms. Runway Model Diva. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. Thank you soo much for the interview; you can connect with me on all my Social Media Platforms like: Facebook: Tracy Runwaymodeldiva Etheridge, Runway Model DIVA, Divas Boutique Shop, Runway Slayer Models Group.

Instagram: Runwaymodeldiva, Tracyrunwaymodel, Divasboutiqueshop, Ripslaydemolishrunways, and Myairtracy Tiktok: Runway Model Diva YouTube: My AIR w Tracy Etheridge Twitter: Eliteladydiva Spotify: My AIR Podcast: Anchor.Fm Model Website: www.Tracyrunwaymodeldiva.info Website: www.Divasboutique.shop

17

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented Ms. Chocolate the model of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. My name is Terri Sykes and I live in a small town called Garysburg, NC. I work full time Mon.-Thurs. at the Lowe's Distribution warehouse in Garysburg, NC. I am the mother of 2 awesome young men ages 20 and 24. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

Q What inspired you to become a model?

A. Being apart of the Jenks F.ashionique Slaymates, owned by Ikaneisha Gibbs Jenkins, inspired me to look more into being a model. When I did my first runway show with Jenks, I had to walk with one of the other Jenks Slaymates. She was closer to my age and she did an amazing job. I was terrified but she told me I did great and that she felt I would do great in modeling. She became my mentor and we are still friends today!!! Shortly after that show I was booked for a photo shoot and it was all uphill from there. Modeling then became my passion and it keeps me calm.

18

Q. Being a model, what are the important tools that you learned through your experience in the industry?

A. -There is so much to learn if you apply yourself and listen.

- Do your research on those that want to work with you.

- Don't be afraid to ask questions about anything.

- If ever you feel uneasy about an event, trust your gut!

- Lastly if you need help, speak up! Closed mouths don't get fed!!!

Q. Does Models of the Carolinas, have a manager or how do you all navigate thru making decisions as a group in setting goals for Models of the Carolinas?

A. As of right now we do not have a manager. We do communicate alot through social media chat groups, video chats, phone calls and supporting modeling events. I feel that we vibe well together so making decisions on certain situations are usually not that hard.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. My biggest accomplishments thus far in my modeling career has been being named Curvy Model of the Year 2021 by Farbes Magazine. Also I competed in the 2021 Regal Elegance North Carolina Pageant and I was crowned Classic Ms. Regal Elegance North Carolina!! I also had the pleasure of hosting my very first fashion show in 2022! It was the Autism Awareness Fashion Show hosted by Rogue Fashen Modeling Agency in Raleigh, NC! Lastly of course being chosen to be apart of the Models of the Carolinas!

Q.. What is the biggest obstacle you've had to face in the industry?

A. My biggest obstacle I've had to face in the industry is not always being chosen because of my size. I would at times allow it to get me down, but now I just look at it as that show just wasn't for me. I know I will be blessed with bigger and better!!!

Q. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what is your creative platform that you are looking to bring to the group or a sense of purpose driving your ambitions and goals? What would you say is your purpose for creating the platform?

A. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, my purpose is to show women, especially my curvy girls, that we must show confidence and self love at all times. My motto is " It's not cocky....it's confidence!" Yes queens some of us have rolls, lumps, and dents but don't be ashamed of any of that!

It's just more of you to love and admire! You must walk with confidence! You must talk with confidence! Always be ready to show up and show out but keep it classy! Love the beautiful woman that you are and let your confidence be the first thing you put on everyday!!

Q. What would you tell a little boy or girl just like you that maybe has dreams of following in your footsteps so to speak?

A. I'd tell them to go after your dream! This industry can be tough but you must have thick skin and learn to hold your head up even when you get a NO! NO does not mean NEVER! Sometimes it just means not right now. Often times there is something bigger and better, but sometimes we gotta wait for it. Stay prayed up through the good and the bad times! Stay humble at all times! Trust your gut instincts. If it don't feel right, usually it's not! No matter what..... KEEP YOUR HEAD and KEEP PUSHING! YOU'VE GOT THIS! Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. I'm sure for some it can be. With all the traveling at times, trying not to argue because people are in your inbox, or even reading some of the comments under the photos. I'm sure it would put a strain on the relationship but if you have true love and trust, I feel the relationship could work. Be open and honest at all times and by all means please keep the communication going. No communication will definitely lead to suspension. This you do not need.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

A. I feel there is a bright future for Models of the Carolinas! I'm talking fashion shows, endorsements by different companies, appearances on other platforms, the Models of the Carolinas reality show in 2023! I like to speak big things into existence! I see nothing but success with these ladies!

Q. Ok that's it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. Facebook: Terri MsChocolate Sykes Tik Tok: Chocolatebabydoll Email: terri.sykes56@gmail.com Instagram.com/ curvymodelterri

19

20

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented Nivia the model of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. Blessings to all, I am Nivia the Model a 44 yr old Data Analyst with Wells Fargo, Independent model, Cosmetologist, Mua, Mother and Glamma (which is admittedly is my favorite hat I wear.) I have 10 siblings ,originally from Brentwood, NY, currently residing in North Carolina.

Q. What inspired you to become a model?

A. I've been in the beauty industry for over 20 years , I went to cosmetology school after High School which is where I fell in love with Beautifying women. As a hair stylist this led me to be directly involved with the model scene. Although I was behind the scenes , I use to look at the models and picture myself on the Runway. Those shows began my journey to becoming a Plus Model.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. I have been blessed to experience lots of different avenues within my modeling journey, I have done commercials that aired on BET, music videos, Published in several magazines and featured in a book by the late Rhonda Baker called curvy girls, Macys campaign with Muriam Cinevert of True Self Magazine and currently a Brand ambassador for Favor Boutique out of Rock Hill SC.Im sure Ive missed a few things but those are the ones that stand out. All in All Im Grateful for every one of my achievements big or small.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

A. Right now we are gearing up for 2023 , We have some big things in store but Im not gonna give it up just that easy but Keep your eyes on us, We up Next!! . Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what attributes or skills do you bring to the group. And, also what would you say is your purpose for creating this platform?

A. For me this platform is to embrace sisterhood, spread love and encouragement to the people who may not view themselves as Beautiful, maybe because society, maybe from a false narrative of what beauty is or maybe someone that just needs to learn to love on themselves a little more. Each one of us bring a different type of energy that collectively is almost like a super power when we all come together and being that we are all so different it makes us more relatable to the people that we connect with. What I may not know Im sure one of the other ladies have knowledge and or experience that we can share.. So in a nutshell My Goal is to be a light and spread love while making you look and feel beautiful.

Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model? Not if you are with the right person that supports your dreams and goals. If they dont you might want to reconsider that relationship. Love is not selfish.

Q. Ok thats it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. You can Find your girl Nivia the Model at Www.instagram.com/everythingbeautifulbynivia FB:Nivia Wilson TikTok: Nivia the Model YouTube: Nivia the Model Remember Be You! Be BEAUTIFUL! UNAPOLOGETICALLY!!

21

ANGYL LEE

22

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented Angyl Lee of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. My name is Latoya Henry, 39 yrs old. I'm a USPS Rural Mail Carrier by day, and a plus size Print/Runway model everyday. I was born in Brooklyn, NY and currently located in Charlotte, NC. Q. What inspired you to become a model?

A.I'm a very busty woman and I noticed that there wasn't enough representation for women such as myself so I wanted to take on the challenge of expressing beautiful women such as myself.

Q. Being a model, what are the important tools that you learned thru your experience in the industry?

A. Confidence and Grace is a very powerful tool. Knowing my limitations keeps me in a safe space. Because the fashion industry is ever changing, practicing my craft is a must.

Q. Do, Models of the Carolinas, have a manager? Or how do you all navigate thru making decisions as a group in setting goals for Models of the Carolinas?

A. We're separate entities under one big umbrella moving as an independent unit. That's what makes us so unique.

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. 2019 was a huge year for me! I landed on several Billboards in Charlotte, NC invited to my very 1st intrview through 102.6 The Situation Room with Robert Greene. Did my very first Runway show with Islay (Duane Golden) where I met Runwaymodel Diva, and Savage. All of these beautiful moments prepared me for the craziest accomplishment thus far by landing a role on the WildnOut Tour as a Plus Model being introduced to his Sold out show in Charlotte, NC by Nick Cannon himself allowing me to shine this past May 22' A. But it didn't start o that way. In 2018, I linked up with Juicy Body Goddess (Summer) with no experience, and I got the chance to meet Nivia The Model. Watching her dominant the camera and crowd made me fall in love with the craft of modeling.

O camera, she's the sweetest mother, sister and friend that anyone could ask for! It's everyday women like Nivia, Diva, Savage, MsChocolate, and Lady L that influences me to keep perfecting my craft.

Q. What is the biggest obstacle you've had to face in the industry?

A. Not being accepted in the room because of my size and shape. Many designers go for the slim, bottom heavy/tall models and I'm neither lol. I stand at 5'4 with J cup headlights. However, I understood that challenge, and I take it head on showing that I'm just as important and aspowerful as anyone in that very same room.

Q. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what is your creative platform that you are looking to bring to the group or a sense of purpose driven your ambitions and goals? What would you say is your purpose for creating the platform?

A. Mental Health Awareness is what brought me here. Its time to put this topic on the table. In today's world, many has become heartbroken and desensitized, especially during the pandemic. But where's the healing? Who can anyone such as myself talk to for support? How can one express themselves when one doesn't know how to release? I'm here to use my platform as a bridge to connect people to places and people that can provide a safe space for all to release along with tools that can be applied for everyday living.

Q. What would you tell a little boy or girl just like you that maybe has dreams of following in your footsteps so to speak?

A. Be your no1 fan! Be your own Competition! Keep positive people around you. Speak positive thoughts out loud. Get rid of negative energy. Whatever you want in life can be yours as long as you put in the work!

Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. No I'm single by choice but open to dating gentleman lol, however I know many of my model sisters/brothers that has wonderful relationships and marriages. It's all about what you desire.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

A.I can't say too much, my model sisters would kill me lol. I can say this, Many projects are in the works for us and by the way, look out for Models of The Carolinas Reality TV Show 2023' release date to be announced!

Q. Ok thats it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. Thank you so much for having me!

You can find me on all platforms: Facebook: Angyl Lee TikTok: Angyl_Lee YouTube: Angyl Lee Email:Bookingangyl@gmail.com Www.instagram.com/angyl_lee

23

Q. Wassup, it's your boy Darren Southern Plug Brown for Southern Plug Magazines doing this Models of the Carolinas’ takeover sponsored by Dyamond Huntaz, here with the super graceful and talented Lady L of Models of the Carolinas. Tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do?

A. My name is Lavonna Wilson I currently reside in New York and North Carolina. I work at a dental office and I been a model 4 over 20 years. I'm a mother of two amazing boys ages 20 and 15.

Q. What inspired you to become a model?

A. My Mother always saw a gift in me and enrolled me in Barbizon Modeling School in NYC. I participated in several beauty pageants in my younger years and continued to pursue it into my early 20's.

Q. Being a model, what are the important tools that you learned thru your experience in the industry?

A. That Beauty is truly in the eyes of the Beholder. I was 5'9 and about 120 pounds tall and thin but always had curves, so to me I never once thought that my modeling journey would reveal some ugly societal truths.

I learned that It wasnt that I wasn't beautiful enough, tall enough or thin enough, it was that society had built a narrative on what Beauty is and that's what they wanted us to believe therefore pushing the agenda To Be Beautiful you have to be between a size 4-6 and I knew that wasn't realistic. I don't think I even knew anyone that was that small. The woman I was surrounded by were Gorgeous woman some tall, some short some curvy but all beautiful in their own way. So I learned then that society had a warped view of beauty and changes needed to be made.

Q. Do, Models of the Carolinas, have a manager? Or how do you all navigate thru making decisions as a group in setting goals for Models of the Carolinas?

A. We don't have a manager currently, we are a strong group of woman and those are some big shoes to fill.

We have been Independent and will remain that way until God sees fit to send someone our way. Its all in his timing!

Q. What are your biggest accomplishments and influences?

A. For me I don't measure my accomplishments as Big or Small, I've auditioned for America's Next Top Model, music videos, magazines and numerous Runway shows and Pageants. I would say my biggest influence would have to be my beautiful late mother she saw me here she had the vision she lit the torch and handed me the baton and now I'm off to the races!

Q. What is the biggest obstacle you've had to face in the industry?

A. Definitely Rejection, as I stated earlier even being thin I was made to believe that I wasn't good enough and I will say it worked out temporarily. I decided to step away from modeling and focus on a career where I wouldn't be measured by my looks even though I loved modeling no one likes rejection. So I walked away, but the universe has an interesting way of bringing things full circle and here I am doing what I love again with total self love and knowledge of self..Society cant tell me nothing.I am Fierce, I am Beautiful I am Strong just as I am.

Q. Being apart of the Models of the Carolinas, what is your creative platform that you are looking to bring to the group or a sense of purpose driven your ambitions and goals? What would you say is your purpose for creating the platform?

A. My Goal is to encourage women to follow their hearts, live, love and laugh. Embrace their flaws and learn to love themselves through those flaws. We are Queens, Goddesses and the world is ours for the taking!!

Q. What would you tell a little boy or girl just like you that maybe has dreams of following in your footsteps so to speak?

A. Follow your dreams. Silence the noise laugh at the naysayers. Stay focused on your goals, work hard and Most Important know that You have purpose and are simply Amazing!

Q. Is it hard to maintain a relationship being a model?

A. I don't think so. I have had a successful relationship. My partner supports my dreams as I do his.

Q. What’s the future for Models of the Carolinas?

A. Spoiler alert lol..just kidding but I can't give up all the goods,we have some major things in the works.We plan on making MOTC a household name, keep your eyes and ears out for us. We on a Mission that will be accomplished!

Q. Ok that's it for this Southern Plug Exclusive with Models of the Carolinas. Tell my readers how they can find you online; Social media, Website, music pages etc?

A. Facebook: Lavonna Wilson Instagram: Sexyladyljw Tictoc: lavonnawilson

24

CLASSIFIEDS

Advertisement