Former Miss Georgia USA & Sports Illustrated Model, Jasmyn Wilkins takes on the world of modeling and entertainment by force. Embracing all sides of beauty, both physical and spiritual, the beautiful model enjoys every moment of her career which brings her together with amazing creatives and artists who teach her a little something new every time. Using her platform to promote awareness for mental health de-stigmatization, racial injustices, and organ donation, these topics are very personal for Wilkins.Working on building meaningful relationships and leaving a positive footprint on the world, Jasmyn Wilkins brings beauty and heart together as one.
Share with us your favorite part of modeling. How has it impacted who you are? What lessons have you learned?
I love the fact that I get to work with and engage with the coolest creatives. I really enjoy getting to know everyone from the photographers to the models and I appreciate hearing their stories and working together to create beautiful and powerful images. Traveling is also a fun aspect t. I’ve had a passport since I was a baby so flying around the world has been in my DNA. Being from the south people can get stuck in their ways and ideals so being able to get out and meet people from all walks of life has made such an impact on my life.
Who has been your biggest supporter?
I know it sounds cliche but definitely my mother. She is always there to remind me of my worth and reminds me to keep pushing even when I doubt myself. I’m lucky to call her my role model and friend. We have been through so much together so my success is hers too.
Congratulations on having won Miss Georgia USA! During your time on the set of that competition, what are some changes you believe need to be made?
Thank you! It was such an incredible experience and is a big part of why my career is where it’s at today. Luckily pageants have changed so much since I completed back in 2012. At the time, the pageant kind of felt like a glorified modeling competition. I certainly had to be up on my interview skills and stage presence but I felt like what mattered most was who was the “prettiest” and had the best chance of making it to Miss Universe. Now, it’s not simply enough to be pretty and have a good gown in pageants. We’re seeing Representatives are lawyers, activists, doctors and literal rocket scientists. I think that it gives women more to look up to. I love that it’s changing.
What does beauty mean to you?
Being comfortable in your own skin and accepting imperfections is beautiful to me. Aside from physical beauty, having a good soul and spirit is key.
You also bring awareness to issues such as mental health de-stigmatization, racial injustices, and organ donation. Tell us more about this and how you show your support.
I have made it my duty to talk about these issues as they are very personal to me. My father was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder which is why I’m passionate about Mental Health. My mother has been dealing with a rare liver disease which has led her to need multiple transplants, and being a black woman in America racial justice is very important to me. I have shown my support over the years for advocating for these issues through donations, becoming a board member, and using my social media as a tool to highlight these underserved and often misunderstood groups.
In what ways can others help promote awareness?
Simply discussing the issues and starting the conversation speaks volumes. Social media is such a powerful tool to spread awareness but also going out into your community and starting fundraisers and volunteer initiatives towards your cause can really help make changes.
What do you believe is your purpose?
My purpose is to have a positive impact on the lives of others and to make meaningful connections with those that I come into contact with. I believe that life is all about relationships, so I will continue to build strong ones.
By Alexandra Bonnet
The black and white picture is credited to Holly Parker and the others to Vivian Arthur.
