Model Of The Week

Who:
America Gonzales Mijares, 180 cm / 5’11”, Venezuelan, born April 27th

We Asked:
How and when did you become a model? “After being hassled by my sister to try out for an open call casting back home. I didn’t get the job. Well, I was very much on the fence about even being near a camera for most of my life. It never occurred to me to become a model, especially because I was always busy with my 2nd year of medical school. It took hard work to get there and even more hard work to stay, especially since it’s so expensive and emotionally taxing including the fact I couldn’t really afford it. Eventually I saw the opportunity and took it — after much deliberation — my mother agent, Jhonny Tovar, scouted me and most importantly believed in me and I took his word and I’m so glad I did because I love the outcome, I love being in front of the camera now and it’s given me a platform to sustain myself, leave the dictatorship in Venezuela behind and even work for the money I need to complete my education.”

What have you learned since you started modelling? “That beauty is relative and you don’t have to fit into a box. I found that knowing your identity and self-esteem is where true beauty comes from. When you’re a model everyone has their insecurities they want to mirror onto you and you have to build around the negativity and stay humble and focused on your goals.”

What is an issue or cause you are passionate about? “World health and human rights. I’m a med student and I always had the idea of helping people in need and poverty in my community and around the world. I have very humble roots and know that education and healthcare are pillars of society. I’m hoping to give back to the people and become a full-fledged m.d. and a philanthropist someday.”