Giavonni Jenkins is a curvy, multi-award winning model, brand ambassador and actress. As seen on the Steve Harvey Talk Show & VH1’s reality TV show “Black Ink Crew Chicago". She has been modeling for several years now and flourishing. She is a curvaceous, petite, plus size model that advocates in erasing negative stigmas regarding curvy women while encouraging body positivity for ALL women.
She has modeled for Ashley Stewart, Sears & Roebuck and Co. & Macy’s and more. She is the proud recipient of the “Model of the Year 2017” award that she has received from the "Fashion World Grammys" right here in Chicago. Also, you can find her modeling on the website of Bella Sky and HerTreasures boutique. Currently, she is one of the Semi-finalist for the Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 promotional campaign and contest. She has graced the New York runways during New York Fashion Week for "RunWays on Fire" & “NYFW Takeover”. In addition, she has had the pleasure of being a brand ambassador for brands like Nickelodeon & Gatorade and Model Esteem etc. Likewise, she has been blessed to have walk the runway for the 2018 “Black Women’s Expo” which takes place in front of 35,000 people each year. Additionally, Giavonni has a degree in Fashion Production from The Illinois Institute of Art, which has only enhanced her knowledge in the fashion industry world. Her expertise is in runway, print, editorial, showroom, commercial, Ecomm modeling styles and more.
Giavonni also serves in ministry with her church, as a part of the Intercessory Prayer Ministry (IPM) at New Life Convent Southeast “Outreach and Special project Team”. She wears many hats such as mediator & counselor with gifts in exhortation, healing and deliverance.
1) Describe yourself in three sentences.
I am a person that sets out to inspire and empower others. I love to laugh and enjoy this one life that we have been blessed to have.
2) Tell us about your childhood. How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences? How did this affect your adulthood?
I grew up between two worlds. I grew up between the Northside of Chicago and the Southside. I had to learn to adapt quickly. I grew up as a latchkey in the 80’s. It taught me how to be very self-aware and responsible very early on. I had be too be creative as a child and these skills has very much helped and me now in my adult years.
3) What motivates you to succeed? Advice for others seeking inspiration.
I prayed to God to ignite my passion again. I lost it after what I call a major life changing set back. He hears and He answers! This is the most focus that I have been in a very, very long time. Therefore, I draw my strength from God he is my inspiration and motivation when I want to give up. When “others” did not believe in me, He always did and for that I Am eternal grateful.
4) Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"?
A “WIN” is again that God is in (Approved by Him); a loss is anything that MY God is not a part of (meaning it was not authorized by HIM)!
5) If you could change something about your past, would you?
Yes, I have a laundry list and you don’t have enough paper! However, I am learning to trust the process even when things do not turn out the way I envisioned them.
6) Sum up your career goals, life goals, and personal goals in a few sentences.
Learning to push pass my let downs and failures with the intention to bounce back better than that last time. Learning to give myself the grace and mercy that I freely give others. Do not settle anymore ever & aim high and add tax & interest!
7) What is your most appreciated "failure"?
All of them, It taught me that I am much stronger than I ever would have known had I not experience them. Come to find out I am much more resilient that I realized!
8) Describe your feelings about plus-sized fashion, the industry and the representation? What are your critiques?
My critique about the industry is one of the reasons why I am a part of it, to bring about change and bring more attention to body positivity and what that may look like for the future. We as women want to see “real life” models, women and men that look more like ‘US’ (FullFigured). We will eventual become the norm and I am just the women to aid in pushing this movement.
9) Why do you want to be Ms. Ashley Stewart and what sets you apart?
I pride myself in bringing love, passion, fierceness and a raw sense of confidence and truth that I have found within, this sets me apart. Also, I have a story to tell that includes restoration & second chances. In addition, I want women to know that there is a new level of body acceptance that is taking place in world and that our time is now.
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