November 19th 2011
Joelle Johannes: A model in the making!
Rae Anthony

Joelle Johannes is only 13 years old and she’s already on her way to becoming a top model. “What makes her so special?” You may ask. “There are so many models in this Island! So what’s so special?” Yes, this might just be one of your questions. Well let’s find out.

Student of the Leon Hess Comprehensive School, Joelle has just attained herself a two year modeling contract, with Elite Modeling Management. It all began when word was out that the agency needed two girls to join their team. With modeling being her passion, Joelle was eager to audition. However, she was a little too young she said. Her mother, who saw the potential in her daughter, had a word with Management and Joelle was allowed to audition. It was very much of a surprise for her, when she received the news that she had made it. She said that she never even believed that the judges would consider her as one of the top two girls, but Joelle is now working on her level of confidence, as she realises that she has full potential.

The judges, she said were looking for girls who were 5 8” or taller, and girls who were quite new in the business, and not girls who were trained to be models. Luckily, Joelle had both of these things going for her. She was exactly 5 8” and had very little experience.

“Jojo,” as we call her, says that she is a constant viewer of A.N.T.M. (America’s Next Top Model), and that she absolutely loves it. Not only does she watch A.N.T.M, she goes on YouTube, Google and other sites and does research so that she can increase her knowledge. “I practise my facial expression and body language in the mirror all the time! My brother says I’m vain.” She added jokingly. But on a serious note, she says that she just wants to succeed.

Apart from modeling, Joelle dances salsa. She said she would love to be an accountant when she gets older.

Shermark Leon, she said, coached her along the way; improving what she already knows, and teaching her new stuff. She is nothing, but grateful to him.

“I would like to encourage all aspiring models out there, along with everyone else, to pursue their dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t, because no one knows your capabilities.”

13 year old Joelle Johannes is determined to create a name for herself, and from the looks of things, she is well on her way!

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