Today we’d like to introduce you to Porcilla Charlton.
Hi Porcilla, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
At the age of 7, I began competing in Beauty Pageantry, winning Overall Queen in the very first pageant I ever entered. That led me to develop a serious passion for modeling. I went on to runaway train with Walk This Way Productions and Urban Reflections, INC. perfecting my craft, and becoming a freelance model in my area. Only standing 5’2 at the time, the odds were against me. I was considered “too short” for the fashion industry, but my talent could not be denied. After hearing “No” time after time, a “Yes” came by way of invitation from Allusions by A. Lekay Swimwear for the Illustrious New York Fashion Week, every aspiring model’s dream! This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity led me to also be seen showcasing on the runways of Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Flint, and so much more! Being shorter than Kate Moss, but walking like Naomi Campbell left people wondering” Who is she?” leading to the establishment of my “She Is Ziggy” Empire, helping pave the way for those who wish to but may not fit the standard criteria of the industry, just as I.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
This journey has been far from smooth, but so worth every bump in the road. As I stated before, I am considered “too short” for the fashion industry. The standard model height requirement is 5’9. I am now still 6 inches too small. Many directors often looked the other way when it came to me simply because of my height. I’d do everything in my power, from higher heels to bigger hair to make me look longer and stand out at a casting call. And once they got a glimpse of my dexterity and presence, the narrative would quickly switch and I’d be made to fit in one way or another. I must admit, after some time now in the industry, it is very rewarding to see it slowly changing, accepting those of all shapes and sizes, because the world consists of people from all walks of life, and I’m sure I’d be agreed with that everyone should be catered to as such, not just one “standard” size.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Over time, as I continued modeling and making a name for myself, I began to be recognized more and more by those near me and from those afar. Specializing in Runway & Print, I’ve been featured in numerous amount of runway shows, magazines, websites, television segments, commercial promotions, etc. collaborating and helping brand those around me. Sometimes all people need is encouragement. I’ve always loved being encouraged to keep going, so encouraging and helping others that demonstrate the potential to do great things is something I love to do. In 2016, I became officially on the web, launching my very own website and YouTube Chanel “In the Zone with Ziggy” Interviewing for an Inspiration, putting my vocal talents to work giving entrepreneurs of all areas a platform to expand themselves and their brands, just as I was given, all with the hopes of them realizing Nothing can stop you, Consistency is key! I’d get a lot of messages inquiring where to begin starting a career in modeling. I held my first Runway Workshop which consisted of all things needed to be successful in this industry, leading me to host and assist with many more, one specifically catering to the South Florida Fashion Academy! The demand for my expertise continued to grow leading me to what I am most proud of- In 2020 I launched my first business S.I.Z Media LLC releasing my first publication “Not Your Average Size: An Aspiring Model’s Manifesto into the Industry & Beyond.” Following up with Part 2, 1 year later, “Growing Through the Industry” was released, completing the series and assisting with encouraging as well as creating opportunities and being an example for those aspiring to be just as I now am.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Confidence & Consistency! I speak on consistency a lot in my books because it’s so easy to get discouraged and want to throw in the towel, but if you’re confident in your craft, you won’t give up. There were plenty of days I wanted to give up, but had I given up, I wouldn’t be able to share my story with you today. I’m a firm believer that what’s for you, is for you. But you will never know if you don’t trust the process and accept that timing is different for everyone. Never give up on your dreams, you must stay consistent and continue working towards achieving whatever it is that you desire, no matter what’s occurring around you. I worked 3 jobs all while obtaining my degree just to ensure the ability to invest in myself to obtain my goals. All you really need is to believe in you. In 2020 I signed to my first Agency, Level Talent Group, booking more print work, which is what the industry qualified for me to do. In 2021, I discovered I was with a child, immediately thinking “my career is over!” To my surprise, the industry loves pregnancy! Once I got the courage to tell my agent, they were ecstatic, and I began booking Maternity Promo. Had I not stayed truthful, confident, & consistent, I could’ve dented my career when in reality, there was no need for it. After giving birth to my daughter, I’ve stayed consistent with getting back on track and now I’m back like I never left, doing even more for myself and others, confidently & consistently.
Pricing:
- Not Your Average Size: An Aspiring Model’s Manifesto Into The Industry & Beyond $20
- Not Your Average Size: Li2erally “Growing Through The Industry” $20
- Not Your Average Size “Bundle Deal” 2 for $30
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sheisziggy.com
- Instagram: @sheisziggy
- Facebook: SIZMediaLLC
- Twitter: @sheisziggy
- Youtube: In The Zone With Ziggy
