I’m a curvy natural redhead – growing up I hated my hair so much I wanted to shave it off, now I’m redefining beautiful
AN ASPIRING Sports Illustrated model has opened up on how she grew to love her curvy body, and her red hair.
Courtney Jean, a 25-year-old Canadian model, posted her audition for Sports Illustrated on her YouTube channel.
Over footage of herself posing on a beach in a white bikini, Courtney said: “Born and raised in Canada, I’m 25 and ready to thrive.
“I started dancing at the age of two and modeling at five.”
She also shared a terrifying personal experience that happened to her and her family at a young age.
“In between those ages, my family and I were thrown 60 feet in a tornado and somehow survived,” she said. “I truly believe that I was meant to be here for a reason.”
Courtney also described the stigma she faced as a ginger child.
“Growing up a redhead wasn’t always easy for me,” she admitted. “I remember wanting to laser all my freckles off and dye my hair black just to fit in.”
The other big stigma in Courtney’s life has come from having natural curves.
“Being in a curvy body also comes with its challenges, and I’m here to break that stereotype,” she said.
“I personally believe that no dream is ever too big, and life is way too precious to limit yourself. So here I am.”
She went on: “I found I was more confident when I stopped trying to be someone else’s definition of beautiful and started being my own.”
Speaking about her reasons for wanting to model for SI, Courtney said: “I have always loved how Sports Illustrated has shown so many different body types and ethnicities.
“I truly believe there is a space for everybody. I want to inspire people to embrace their unique qualities and what makes you different.”
She finished off: “So MJ and sports illustrated, are you ready to thrive?”