Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariana Martinez
Hi Mariana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Mariana Martinez, I started off my modeling journey at the age of 13. I started off as a quinceanera model and oding it as a hobby in expos and open houses and soon after joined a model program. Originally I started modeling as a way to increase my self confidence and put myself out of my comfort zone into new experiences. However, with time modeling grew to be something I really enjoyed and that has pushed me to pursue my dreams. Through the academy I was able to learn a lot of new tricks, receive tips to improve, network with people in the fashion industry, and gain new experience. Up until now I have had the opportunity to appear in many fashion shows with various boutiques & designers, participate in photoshoots, go on a radio show, and be interviewd for local magazines. Although it wasn’t always easy, I was able to persevere and find a new form of expression for myself as well as getting to share my experience with others in the hope that more young people my age will feel encouraged to try something new.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The main challenge that I have come across with along the way has been being a teenage, size large, model. Despite all of my accomplishments in my modeling journey I have had to open doors for myself as a large size model, while the industry has always been seen as more leaning to small size models. I have also had to place myself in a mindset in which I can show people that I have met in this industry that although I am young, I have am mature enough to be treated and have equal opportunities like others.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Around the same time that I started modeling, I also started dancing Ballet Folklorico. Being a dancer has brought me the confidence to be on a stage and in front of a public, as well bringing me closer to my cultural roots. Dancing Ballet Folklorico gives me the opportunity to be more flexible not just physically but also flexible with my identity, since I am able to show every part of who I am. Another thing that sets me apart from others is the ability of being a bilingual, teenage model. This gives me the opportunity to connect with many different groups of people in the fashion world. Being fluent in english and spanish also opens a path for me to clearly communicate and encourage a larger amount of people to take risks.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Even though many people may see me as just a model and a dancer, in reality I am still a regular teenager. I am in high school, I have been in debate for 3 years and have been apart of choir for 4 years now. I like going to parties, being with my friends and family, taking leadership postions, and helping people in and outside of school. A normal day for me outside of dance and modeling would consist of me doing my homework, watching shows, or listening to music on my own or with my family. Even after all I have achieved in my life, I am still young girl who has hopes, fears, and dreams I strive to achieve one day.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtz._.mariana?igsh=MWMyZDNqaWhueG40eA==
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mtz._mariana?_t=8pQXGI4PRCU&_r=1
Image Credits
@lettyduartephotography
@ferfigueroaphotography
@dallasfolklorico
