Short Bio

Born a California girl, Kristina Rhoades resides in Georgia with her husband and childhood best friend, Jacob. She's the general manager, as well as a producer and radio show host at Brenau University's radio station, 89.1 WBCX. She's also a graduate of Brenau, having received a B.A. in Mass Communication and an M.S. in Organizational Leadership. Kristina uses a manual wheelchair as a result of a spinal cord injury at ten months old - but has never considered herself "disabled". She has a passion for life and is proud to be a model and spokesperson for several companies making a positive impact on the disability community. A former Ms. Wheelchair California (2005), Kristina has experience in print, runway, video and promotional modeling, and looks forward to someday representing women of various abilities on an even larger scale.

Modeling Experience

I'll start by sharing that I grew up in a family full of photographers and film and broadcast professionals, so I feel at home in front of the camera and love the art of photography.

I have been lucky to work with several companies within the disability industry, to gain experience in the various areas of modeling. The companies include Colours Wheelchair (sexy, custom-built wheelchairs all about lifestyle), LegaWear (custom-tailored suits, tuxedos, pants and shirts for people with and without disabilities), and Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc. (assistive technology and accessibility equipment for vehicles and homes). I've also worked with some local photographers and enjoy finding creative ways to incorporate my wheelchair into the photos. I've had the opportunity to participate in two small fashion shows and I felt at home on the runway... As small as it was. :)

I've enjoyed all the experience I've had, but I would love to expand outside of the disability industry into the fashion and commercial world. While I think it's beneficial for other women with disabilities to see the face of a healthy, happy girl in a wheelchair representing companies they work with, it will also be wonderful to help improve and expand the image of beauty for all people. This is why I was so excited to discover the Models of Diversity campaign. A positive group of like-minded people can join together to accomplish amazing things! I'm proud to be affiliated with this campaign!