I'm a plus size model in the UK, I feel the world of modelling is growing in terms of looking at real beauty, this new era of modelling that is finally celebrating the fact that beauty is not only for those under a size 14.

Modelling has given me the confidence to strive forward in life, I have even started a modelling group that promotes men and women of all shapes and sizes - letting them know that they should embrace who they truly are and not try to conform to commercial ideas of beauty.
My goal in life is to promote real beauty and individuality and to show that even the bigger girls can be sexy, despite what the media would like us all to believe. Beauty does come in all shapes and sizes, as they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Size prejudice is still a big issue in the modelling world. Although I regularly do photo shoots, I have had photographers refuse to shoot me once they have read or asked my size. Also, I have even had some very negative response from other models. Thankfully, this has not happened for some time.
I think there is a change in the industry (though only a small change) but baby steps are better then nothing! I love the fact that plus size women look at models like Miss Loula Cherry, Crystal Renn and Velvet d'Amour. Models that help inspire women to love their own bodies.

I think my passion and drive to carry on modelling came when Miss d'Amour worked with John Galliano and Jean Paul Gautier on their runway. I decided that attitudes are changing, and since then plus size modelling is seeing an increase and some designers are now releasing the potential market but this does not expand to the larger companies. I feel that fashion designers need to see that there is a demand in larger sizes for the younger generation and that not all larger women are aged 40 plus.

I live by the idea that, No matter your size, height or style, you should be proud of your identity and not aim to be the “perfect” Size. There is no such thing, as long as you're healthy, happy and surrounded by loved ones then that are all the matters. I think magazines tend to paint an ideal, that if you're thin you can be anything you want to be, and that is not the case! You are a unique person and size has nothing to do with where you end up in life. You make your own destiny, if you want something go out and get it. Don't feel you have to change.
Don't change who you are to suit others. If they truly love you then they will never try to change you.

Beauty is what you make it, this is what I truly believe in and try to teach this idea and positive outlook to other plus size models. There is a market for everyone - don't think that fashion modelling is the only option! I'm an alternative model, and I don't conform to one style. I enjoy Gore, Horror, Pin-Up and Fetish. I love to express myself and feel that others should be given the same choice.