Model profile: Meet Yonnie Ashanti

Model Yonnie Ashanti recalled how her career journey reaches back to when she was just 4 years old.

The self-described “small-town Louisiana girl” was a recent winner at the Magnifique Showcase held by former “America’s Next Top Model” contestant Victoria Elizabeth.

Looking back on the life that led her to becoming a model, Yonnie wrote in an email,
“Growing up, I remember enjoying being part of festivities of all kinds such as dance, talent competitions and of course modeling. At the age of 4 years old, I began exploring my talents and learning more about what makes me ‘Yonnie Ashanti’. However, I wasn’t always as confident as I am now. My character definitely needed some building over the years to overcome my fears and insecurities in this world.”

Yonnie continued that her time in high school, around 2015, was “an unforgettable era in my life. Not only did I indulge in make-up, parties, and typical teenage shenanigans, I also grew to love fashion and its benefits. Fashion has given me a taste of who I am while also connecting with the world around me. I’ve participated in school runway shows and created pieces of my own as well for fun. I’ve modeled for Fallbrook Church in Houston, Royal T Couture by designer Tania Rainhadebateria and Victoria Henley of Magnifique Fashion Shows so far in my career.”

Although she has other interests, Yonnie explained, “modeling and bringing life to different designers’ garments from all over the world will always be a pleasure and honor of mine. I’ll always hope and dream to be able to do what I love as long as I live. I appreciate every designer and person I came across who saw potential in me when I didn’t know it yet.”