Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriella Bongiovanni.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Born into an Italian family, in Melbourne, Australia, I grew up with a tennis racquet in my hand and a dream. My father, being a tennis coach always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. It is hard to get an education and dedicate your life to a sport and be successful. The American system seemed so perfect for what I wanted to accomplish. I started looking at universities, and soon enough was offered a full scholarship to study and play tennis in Miami. I graduated with a degree in Finance and went off to play on the pro circuit for two years. I am now back at school working on a Masters of Science in Big Data Analytics. My tennis lives on, I am now the Assistant Tennis Coach at St. Thomas University. Tennis has given me everything I have and I am forever grateful to the sport! It also opened up doors for me in the modeling industry. I keep myself busy with tennis coaching and modeling and also work as an IT Manager while I study. I have now been living in this country for eight years and I will continue to strive to be the best I can be!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are always obstacles and people who will tell you can’t do something. My first week at the university I received an email from Admissions saying that there was a problem with my paperwork and I would not be able to continue my studies. I quickly resolved the issue and never gave up. Traveling alone on the pro tour playing tournaments was extremely hard. I did not have a coach or a support team, I traveled to countries like Egypt and Turkey alone and dealt with difficult situations being a woman in male dominant countries. It takes courage and confidence, but hold your head up high and don’t stop until your voice is heard. Never give up, and keep your eyes on the prize – don’t forget what you set out to achieve.
Please tell us about your business.
I pride myself in my coaching as I bring experience that many coaches lack. Anyone can sign up for a coaching course and learn the basics of teaching, but I bring the experience of playing on the circuit and seeing what’s out there. I also have coached in countries around the world and people of all ages.
As for modeling, I have two agents, Swim Models, and Miami Talents. I modeled in one of the biggest events in the world, Miami Swim Week 2018 where I walked for Mystique Swim. I have modeled in music videos for Drake and Bad Bunny, Liam Payne and J Balvin, J Alvarez and El Micha, Plan B, and Bryant Myers, and many more. I support all females that want to make it in the modeling industry. It is extremely hard to handle the rejection that is present in the industry and the crazy standards. You need to find your niche and attack! There is a lot of body consciousness that surrounds the industry. I have curves and I own them, you need to be thankful for what God has given you and use it. Personality is also so important in the modeling industry. If you have a great personality and have good vibes, it will show in your photographs and directors and photographers will be excited to work with you again.
Who have you been inspired by?
First, my mother of course! She is such a hard worker and always makes time for everything! I never felt like she wasn’t around. She manages to do a million things in a day, even after working for ten hours at the office. This is where I get my drive to be able to juggle so many things at once.
Anna Kournikova was always someone I looked up to. She was a determined tennis player and managed to have a modeling career at the same time. No matter how much the media put her down, she paid it no mind and was always successful.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_xoxogabriella/
Image Credit:
@viewpoint_photography, @dwightsmartII
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