INTERVIEW with Monique Jeremiah || Founder of Diversity Models

From ex-teacher to founder of Australia’s top modelling agency for disabilities and diversity, Monique Jeremiah is the highly outspoken, trailblazing and daring entrepreneur and media figure behind Diversity Models. As leader of the most innovative and ground-breaking agency for disabilities, multicultural, mature age and curve models, Monique broke all the rules in the modelling industry. Unapologetically she leads the country’s very first NDIS registered provider modelling agency and proudly creates the pathway for unique and diverse models to enter the industry.

SD: What does diversity and inclusion mean for you?



MJ: To me it diversity and inclusion simply means embracing differences (in our case at Diversity Models, it is disabilities, multiculturalism and maturity of age) and seeing these personal attributes of a person (our models) as strengths in society. Diversity to me means  accepting someone as they are,  appreciating what makes each of us unique and seeing their backgrounds, personality, life experiences and beliefs as something that makes them special and beautiful in their own way. 

Inclusion imeans simply valuing and respecting people for who they are, regardless of their differences. It is creating opportunities that create connection and level the playing field. At Diversity Models we create a pathway for people with disabilities, multiculturalism and mature age to enter the modelling industry.

SD: What are some challenges you have faced in your life?



MJ: The greatest challenges I faced was in my 20s and early 30s when I tried to enter the modelling industry repeatedly but I was constantly rejected because I was just so different and diverse and I didn't fit the mould. This challenge required me to develop an incredible level of resilience, passion and determination in order to fight for my place and career and dream as a full-time model. Most people who wish to be models, especially in the fashion industry, never make it their full-time career, simply work for free or simply end up being hobby models because the industry is tough, it's competitive and you really need to stand out. You also need to be prepared to have a clear time schedule, no other job and be ready to dedicate yourself if you are truly going to make as modelling is very flexible, but it requires real flexibility in your time and ability to work with projects. I'm lucky I had the fight in me to break through all the resistance and unpredictability and I turned modelling into a full-time paying career and now step by step, I am developing the same for my models. 

SD: And what are some highlights?



MJ: My highlight was when I went from full-time model at 35, to founder of Diversity Models. That was a huge milestone which required me to really move from artist to entrepreneur and to think more strategically in order to grow the business so rapidly. 
It's now been 2.5 years and Diversity Models is thriving, operates nationally and we have a wonderful team of models and creatives on the journey.

SD: What is your vision of success?



MJ: My vision of success is doing what I love everyday. It is leading the most fulfilling and purpose driven company, that leads the modelling industry and continues to make an impact everyday, with every new experience and project for our models and team. I am in love with Diversity Models!

SD: What is your best beauty secret?

MJ: Eat, travel and do what you love everyday, where, when and how you want and the happiness you genuinely feel from the inside will radiate beauty and confidence on the outside...... P.s. Don't do botox or drink alcohol - they only create false confidence!

Monique’s Socials:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Monique.Jeremiah.Australia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monique_jeremiah_model/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquejeremiahaustraliamodel/

Diversity Models:

Website: https://www.diversitymodels.com.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversity_models_australia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diversitymodels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diversitymodelsacademy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiversityProductionsAustralia