Model Search Winner | Layla Vanden Bergh

REDEFINE BEAUTY

Layla captured our attention not only with her contagious smile but also with her views on self-love. Seeking to redefine beauty, Layla aspires to “break down walls of imperfections” and to “shine a light on the unique features that we’ve all been given, inspiring people to showcase their raw beauty.”

At the age of 17 Layla’s evolved perception of beauty is something we should all take note of.

Layla doesn’t believe that beauty is constructed upon aesthetic qualities but rather that beauty should be defined by qualities from within us and ultimately from the way we treat others.

Photo Source: The Photo Studio Australia

Beauty Corresponds with Attitude

“I don’t truly believe my beauty corresponds to my physical image. I believe beauty corresponds with attitude. If I feel that I was rude to someone or made the wrong action towards someone that’s when I believe I am ‘ugly’. But if I know I made a generous deed or was kind to someone then I believe I am beautiful.”

Photo Source: The Photo Studio Australia

SENSE OF BELONGING

Layla describes her passion for modelling to be derived from a feeling of belonging and the way it makes her feel.  She says, “There is a thrill that I get when posing in front of a camera, or even taking photos; euphoric sparks.”

Despite the photo shoot being Layla’s first professional experience she didn’t let the nerves get the better of her.  “Once I met my team, I felt very welcomed and relaxed. Then I became very excited for what was ahead,” she muses.  Throughout the shoot Layla conducted herself with a sense of professionalism yet livened the room with her charismatic nature. Explaining she “never felt nervous or in fear of what people thought.” Instead, she radiated confidence and truly encapsulated self-acceptance.

Photo Source: The Photo Studio Australia

Layla’s individuality was captured not just by her bubbly personality but also through her style. Inspired by minimalism and golden hour, Layla rocked a range of street style outfits from double denim, animal print to total black.  “I wanted to keep an element of natural light and warm tones but my amazing photographer Lucy pushed the elements outside of my comfort zone,” she goes on.

Although Layla prides herself on self-love she admits that just like the rest of us, at times she does compare herself to others online, as “it is hard to avoid with social media and there are days I just don’t feel so connected to myself.” In order to overcome this Layla channels confidence! Believing it is, “the most incredible thing you can radiate.  It makes anyone look ridiculously amazing.”

UNDENIABLY BEAUTIFUL

When asking Layla if she had any advice for young girls wanting to do their own shoot, she provided an uplifting response that we should consistently remind ourselves. She says, “Accept who you’re because you should know you’re undeniably beautiful.”

Photo Source: The Photo Studio Australia