Five questions with Supermodel Emme

Five Questions with Supermodel Emme

By Charlotte Madden

Emme has been the iconic Body Positive Supermodel and social reformer for almost 30 years.  She was the first plus-sized model to be chosen for People Magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People, not once, but twice! She is an author, motivational speaker, including a Ted Talk, clothing line creative director, and champion of positive body image.  Emme has a 16-year-old daughter Toby who is following in her awesome mom’s footsteps with her activism and modeling.

Charlotte: How did you get into modeling and what inspired you to do so?

Emme: I fell into modeling on a whim after seeing an article and decided to walk over to the agency on my lunch hour.  They signed me on the spot. Seriously.

Charlotte: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Emme: I get to speak to millions of people every year about body positivity and having fun in life. Offering gratitude for what our bodies do for us every day instead of beating our selves up for what our bodies are not. We waste so much time feeling poorly when we can simply be happy with what we’ve got and use our time more productively in the world.

Charlotte: Have there ever been any obstacles or challenges in your path to success.

Emme: Absolutely, I almost left the modeling industry early on when a photographer called me a fatty, but decided if I left he would win.  I learned more about bullies and how they are the ones living in fear of being found weak or not capable, so they hurt and lash out at those that push their buttons.  When I began modeling no one saw curves on the runway or in billboards, even in magazines that we see so frequently today, thank goodness! I’m so glad times have changed and I never left the business, based on a bully’s outburst – I love what I do.

Charlotte: Did you always imagine that your career would be so broad, or did you alter aspects of your work along the way? If so, what changes did you make?

Emme: Simply put, I STEPPED INTO EVERY OPPORTUNITY PRESENTED TO ME.  Even if I had no clue, I tried, failed and failed and tried…find a really successful person who has never failed, you won’t.  Give it all a try and support your friends trying and offer a helping hand. You will never forget those helping you to the top. Make sure you help those that helped you. Also, success is so much richer when shared!

Charlotte: Do you have any advice for young girls trying to succeed in their passions?

Emme: Leave drama behind, dig in, roll up your sleeves, be genuine, be honest and hard working, and most of all, have lots of fun doing what your passion calls you to do!

Charlotte’s note to readers: I was originally awestruck by Emme when I read her “Letter to my teen self.”  I promise, you will feel the same way if you read it.

Read Letter to my Teen Self

Please follow Emme @supermodelemme on Insta, and if you want to learn more about this inspiring champion of girls and women, jump on her website site at EmmeStyle.com