Jon StojanRunways often define tall and slender as model figures. Yet, Queen Jennie has carved out a niche for herself as a plus-size but petite model. Her journey from a shy, introverted high school student to a confident, body-positive role model is nothing short of inspiring.
Jennie’s modeling career began unexpectedly in high school. She was a quiet and introverted student until her teacher saw something special in her. Determined to bring out Jennie’s unique qualities, the teacher orchestrated a fashion show around her. Despite her nerves, Jennie took to the runway in an evening gown, feeling empowered by the experience. The teacher’s advice to simply focus on walking from start to finish became a guiding philosophy in Jennie’s life. “If I start something, I’m going to finish it,” Jennie recalls. This philosophy has carried her through her career and beyond.
From a young age, Jennie was scouted by modeling agencies, thanks to her distinctive features. Her parents, West Indies immigrants, were conservative and prioritized a traditional education for stability. “As a little girl, I would walk with my parents in Manhattan, and modeling scouts would often stop us. They saw something special in me, but my parents were hesitant. They wanted to protect me in this new country,” Jennie explains. Despite their reservations about the modeling industry, Jennie’s passion for it never wavered.
Even as a child, Jennie’s mother noted her natural inclination towards posing and modeling, often calling her – Jennie the model. She was captivated by old Hollywood glamor, influenced by her mother’s love for classic icons like Marilyn Monroe and Josephine Baker. This early exposure to the elegance and beauty of classic film stars fueled Jennie’s desire to pursue modeling.
Jennie initially pursued a degree in biology before transferring to Temple University for exercise physiology, a field that also captivated her. She completed her degree, all the while being drawn back to modeling. She recalls being scouted multiple times, even while she was at university. “Even before high school, someone came up to me and said, ‘You have great features. I want you to be in a college fashion show,’” Jennie shares. Despite her academic pursuits, modeling was always calling her back.
Her commitment to fitness and health is complemented not only by her modeling career but has also reinforced her message of body positivity. “I pursued exercise physiology because I wanted to understand my body better and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This knowledge has been invaluable in modeling, where staying fit and confident is crucial,” Jennie notes.
Jennie’s approach to modeling is deeply influenced by her background in exercise physiology and the discipline instilled in her by her family. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, discipline, and consistency – traits she honed through her studies and the military science program at Temple University. “Preparation is one of the keys. Discipline is extremely essential, and hard work. Whenever I have those three qualities, I always get 100% or more results,” she explains.
Throughout her career, Jennie has faced challenges typical for plus-size and petite models. One significant moment was when she was scouted for a modeling school. During an interview, she was told she was photogenic but only suitable for print and editorial work due to her height. Determined not to be limited by others’ perceptions, Jennie pushed herself further.
Her approach to modeling is methodical and disciplined. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, whether it’s taking care of her physical health, practicing her walk and poses, or ensuring she is surrounded by the right people in the industry. Her consistency and hard work have paid off, allowing her to achieve significant milestones, including walking in shows in Paris.
Queen Jennie’s modeling career really took off during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was during those dark times, that Queen Jennie found solace and therapy through the process of modeling. Not only using it as a source of income, Queen Jennie saw it as a way to stay positive, disciplined, and focused on improving herself. It is her hope that other people change their perception of modeling, and see it for the therapeutic benefits it could have in their lives.
Today, famously known as Queen Jennie, her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and self-belief. As a plus-size petite model, she embodies body positivity and challenges industry norms. Her story resonates with anyone who has faced adversity in pursuit of their dreams and is an inspiration for many young women who aim to become a model.