Local StoriesSeptember 26, 2024

Meet Renèe Bhagwandeen of Fortlauderdale

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Renèe Bhagwandeen

Hi Renèe, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Renee Bhagwandeen, born in Trinidad and Tobago, but my journey didn’t start, or end, on America’s Next Top Model. Growing up in a small village in Trinidad, I always dreamed of becoming a model. When I was little, I’d watch fashion shows on TV, mesmerized by the lights, the runway, and the beautiful models strutting with confidence. It felt like a world so far from my reality, yet something deep down in me always believed it was possible. And even though I eventually moved to South Florida, that little island girl in me never let go of that dream.

I started modeling at 18, and let me tell you, it hasn’t always been easy. There were countless rejections, moments of doubt, and times where I felt like giving up. The glamorous industry people see from the outside isn’t the full story. It’s a grind. But that journey has also been incredible. It’s helped me grow, taught me resilience, and introduced me to some amazing people along the way.

In 2013, I had one of my biggest breakthroughs when I became a finalist on America’s Next Top Model. That experience was a dream come true for me. I remember watching the show as a teenager, imagining what it would be like to be there, competing alongside other talented models. And then it happened. Being on ANTM taught me so much about the industry, but more than that, it pushed me to believe in myself on a whole new level. Finishing in the top five and becoming a fan favorite was an incredible honor. It felt like validation that I was on the right path, but it was also a reminder that hard work and faith pay off.

Since then, I’ve continued to model for some of the biggest brands in the world like, L’Oréal, Covergirl, and more. My journey has taken me to fashion runways, beauty campaigns, and even acting in music videos for artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. I’ve even made my acting debut on HBO’s Ballers. If you had told that little girl from Trinidad that all of this was possible, I’m not sure she would have believed you. But I’m living proof that with faith, dreams can come true.

For me, faith has always been my foundation. I am the poster child for believing in your dreams because, with God, anything is possible. My path wasn’t a straight line. It was filled with ups, downs, twists, and turns, but I never gave up. I’m a little island girl who grew up in South Florida, and if I can do it, so can anyone else.

In addition to modeling, I’ve branched out into entrepreneurship. I launched SoleTie Shoe Shop and have written two books. My first, ‘Prepared for Reign’, was a deeply personal, faith-based project where I explored my purpose. My second book, ‘The Business Model: Pose, Profit, and Purpose’, is all about helping aspiring models navigate the industry as independent contractors. I wrote it to empower others to build a solid foundation for their careers, just like I did. I also run a blog called ‘Prepared for Reign’ that’s all about my faith and life lessons. Through my books, blog, and coaching, I want to help others find their purpose and live out their dreams, too.

One of my biggest passions now is mentoring aspiring models. I work as a runway and pose coach, helping the next generation step into the spotlight with confidence. Seeing them grow, find their strength, and embrace their unique beauty is one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

I’ve also stepped into acting, and in 2023, I landed the lead role in my first feature film, Doll House. That was another dream come true, and I can’t wait for what’s next on this journey.

At the end of the day, my story is about faith, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible. No matter where you come from, no matter how big or small your dreams are, with faith, determination, and hard work, you can make them a reality. I’m so grateful for every step of this journey, and I hope that my story can inspire others to chase their dreams relentlessly. If I can do it, so can you.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many people, I’ve faced my share of challenges, and the modeling industry can be especially tough. One of the biggest struggles early on was dealing with rejection. I started modeling at 18, and there were countless times when I was told “no” or that I didn’t fit the mold. It’s hard to stay confident in a world where you’re constantly being judged on your looks. But I had to learn that rejection wasn’t a reflection of my worth, and that took time.

Another challenge was breaking through as a Black model. In the early days, there wasn’t a lot of representation in fashion for girls who looked like me. I often felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. Becoming the first Black finalist at the Miss International Pageant in 2011 was a huge turning point for me. It was a win not just for myself but for every young girl who needed to see someone like them represented.

There were also struggles in balancing my personal life and career. Modeling demands travel, long hours, and sometimes being away from loved ones for extended periods. You really have to be prepared for that lifestyle, and it’s not always glamorous behind the scenes. There were times when I questioned if it was worth it.

Faith was also a big part of overcoming my struggles. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but my faith always kept me grounded. I leaned on it when things got tough, and it’s what allowed me to push through those moments of self-doubt.

The road may not have been easy, but every challenge taught me something. It made me stronger, more resilient, and more determined to keep going.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I wear a lot of hats, but at the core, I’m a model, mentor, and author. Modeling has been my main career focus since I was 18, and it’s taken me to incredible places, from runway shows to magazine covers and campaigns for global brands like L’Oréal and CoverGirl. I’m probably best known for my time on ‘America’s Next Top Model’, where I was a finalist. It was an amazing start to my career, opening many doors and giving me invaluable exposure. Since then, I’ve continued to model while also branching out into acting, mentoring, and writing.

I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done as a mentor for aspiring models. I coach young women on runway techniques, posing, and most importantly, building confidence in an industry that can be tough to navigate. It’s not just about teaching them how to walk; it’s about helping them find their voice and sense of self in a space that often tries to box you in.

One of the things I’m most proud of is writing my second book, *The Business Model: Pose, Profit, and Purpose.* It’s a guide for models, especially those looking to operate as independent contractors, to help them understand how to build a sustainable career in the industry. My first book, *Prepared for Reign*, was more faith-based and really a way for me to explore my own purpose, and now *The Business Model* helps others do the same in their professional lives.

What sets me apart from others is my drive to uplift others while staying true to myself. Modeling isn’t always an easy industry, and I’ve learned that success is much more meaningful when you can share it and help others along the way. I think my journey, from growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, moving to South Florida, competing on ‘ANTM’, and becoming an entrepreneur and mentor, reflects the importance of persistence and faith. I never let rejection or setbacks define me; instead, I used them as stepping stones to create a space that’s uniquely mine. I’m proof that dreams can come true, no matter where you start.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Fort Lauderdale and Miami is the energy and the endless opportunities. These cities are where I was raised and where I found my first big breaks in the modeling world. Miami, in particular, has such a vibrant and diverse culture. The fashion scene here is alive, creative, and always evolving, which gave me the space to grow and thrive as a model. There’s a special blend of cultures, styles, and people that makes it a great place to be both personally and professionally.

What I like least? Honestly, it has to be the traffic! As much as I love the hustle and vibrancy of these cities, getting around can be a challenge sometimes. But even with that, I wouldn’t trade it for anywhere else. These cities are my home, and they’ve shaped me into who I am today.

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