by Maddy Figueroa-Jones

Her beauty is astounding yet she walked on set with a humbleness noticed by everyone. None of us knew much about her other than what we have seen in her portfolio and the warm feeling we felt around her – like we had known her for years. What her interview revealed to us is why Anivia is so different. We hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as we did.

[Maddy] How long have you been modeling professionally? Tell me how you got started and what steps you took to enter the industry?

[Anivia] I started out modeling when I was a teenager, but never got picked up by an agent. I did a few magazines like Teen People and some hair magazines. As I got older I started to put on some weight and I "kind of" gave up. I met a woman by the name of Theresa Randolph and she introduced me to Plus Modeling. I had no clue what it was!! I always dreamed of being signed with Wilhelmina... so I called them and found out their open call day. I went and they gave me a little constructive criticism and then they signed me.

[Maddy] How many "tests" did you do before visiting the agencies or did you walk in with a Polaroid?

[Anivia] I actually had not done any tests as a plus model. I went in with the worst pictures I could have had... they were what Wilhelmina called "Halloween like" -- lol. I did my first test shoot through Willie with Michael Creigh.

[Maddy] Did you have to pound the pavement and visit several agencies or were you picked up right away?

[Anivia] I have strong faith in God. I only wanted to get signed with Wilhelmina and I knew if it were Gods will, "He" would make it happen. I just put all my faith in "His" hands and "He" answered my prayers. Well, I should say he showed me what HIS plan was for me.