The best word to describe me is weird (lol). The runway gives me a rush and I'm intrigued with high fashion. I like to think of everyone involved in this industry as artists and I want to produce masterpieces.. so let's create them! =]

Bio (lengthy, but well worth reading)

With an oversaturation of talent, and lack thereof, within the entertainment industry, it is difficult to find those rare gems on the path to superstardom. So when it comes to fashion, it only makes sense that today’s models are expected to have an exceptional level of style, confidence and personality. Fortunately for Ashley LeCole, possessing these three qualities are as simple as knowing how to breathe. Born and raised in Vineland, New Jersey, right outside of Atlantic City, Ashley was no stranger to bright lights and large crowds. However, since no major goal is easily attained, she had to learn how to channel her obstacles into positive achievements.
So when asked which successful model inspires Ashley the most, it comes as no surprise that her answer is Tyra Banks. Arguably the most accomplished model ever, Tyra Banks is a perfect example of hard work and persistence. “I love how Tyra has accomplished so much and didn’t just stop at fulfilling her own dreams and building her career,” says Ashley. “She also decided to give back and help other aspiring models fulfill their dreams by creating a platform for them through her show ‘America’s Next Top Model.’” Just as Tyra was able to give back on a large scale, Ashley plans to gain enough notoriety and do the same. For now, she is involved in “Modelz 4 Life,” a mentoring program for young women in her community.

While Ashley’s parents were significant to her personal development, they both played very different roles. “My mother is strong and supportive with a huge heart,” explains Ashley. “She always puts others before herself and now I’m the same way.” Through her mother’s selflessness, Ashley learned how to apply that same generosity to many of her relationships. Her mother’s support was backed by an uncompromising love to see her daughter succeed. On the other hand, while Ashley learned a lot from what her mother taught her, she learned a lot from what her father showed her. “From my father, I learned how to stand up for myself, be outspoken, and more independent. I gained most of my current business mentality by simply observing him.” Ashley’s father may not have given her any direct advice, but through their interactions, she learned how to be a strong and firm individual.

As her motivation stems from the will to overcome adversity, Ashley holds true to the ideal that strength and character are built through hardship. Fueled by the loss of her aunt Ann Kent, who passed away from breast cancer, Ashley decided to pursue modeling as a fulltime endeavor. “She became my inspiration because she was a former model. She was the first person to show me how to walk on the runway.” A few weeks later, still mourning over her aunt’s death, Ashley was hit with the loss of her grandmother, Lillian Cherry. “My grandmother encouraged me to model because she believed I'd be a superstar one day,” remembers Ashley. “She always said ‘Make mommom proud’ and that still plays in my head before I do a show.” Ashley’s relatives believed in her before she believed in herself, so she draws inspiration through memories and the impact that they had on her life.

Determined to achieve her goal of an established modeling career, Ashley dedicated countless hours to her craft. Then one night after a photo shoot, Ashley got into a serious accident which changed the course of her life. “While driving home, I dosed off behind the wheel and woke up drifting onto the opposite side of the road. Unable to gain control of the car, I crashed into a set of trees,” recalls Ashley. With a totaled car, her shoulder shattered into 6 pieces and a broken foot, Ashley’s dream of pursuing her modeling career stopped indefinitely. She learned one of the greatest lessons in life: No matter how hard you work, never forget to take care of yourself.

Narrowly escaping her near death experience, Ashley used this blessing to get her life back in order and focus on regaining her strength. Spending months in physical therapy, she not only had to learn how to use her arm again, but also had to regain her independence. Faced with another hurdle, doubt and insecurity hindered Ashley’s progress, almost forcing her to quit pursuing her dream. “The doctors found it hard to believe that I survived the impact, but thanks to my ‘angels’ and God's plan for me, I'm still here,” says Ashley. “Once I started going to church again, I received the ‘push’ that I needed and my family keeps me going because they provide me with a huge support system.” With her faith in God, the love of her family, and support of her friends through the constant ups and downs of life, these events have shaped Ashley into the strong and confident woman that she is today.

Making sure that her progress is far from a slow process, Ashley is back in full effect behind the lens and on the runway. She has walked in fashion shows for names such as Carmelita Couture, J.Pratt Footwear, Geary Marcello, Roshe Dousuah, Chandra Jewelry, Dear Nicole Styles, Samina Mughal, Marina Makaron Moscow, Obradoire de Moda, Nina Streets Designs and . Her resume consists of various types of modeling such as runway, print, commercial, promotional, editorial and more. Ashley is the face of Fab Finds Boutique and Model Mingle Network. She also won the title of “Model of the Year” at the 2011 South Jersey Music Awards which is a huge hometown accolade that speaks for itself.

Currently building her portfolio, Ashley is working on a few independent projects and planning to release some material soon. Of course, with every professional goal she sets, there are a few personal ones that she would like to accomplish as well. “In honor of my aunt, I want to recreate her magazine shoots, make the cover of Jet and Ebony magazine, and be able to donate a generous amount of money to charities for breast cancer.” With a lot of charitable goals in mind, Ashley would also like to travel the world, especially to do some work in Paris, and collaborate with many influential photographers and designers.

In order to prosper, you need to be more than just a pretty face and Ashley LeCole has what it takes to stand apart from the rest. “I’ve learned that I can’t rely on others if I really want to make it in this business. Since nothing will be handed to me, I have to be willing to really put in work and invest in myself.” With a number of shows and shoots on the horizon, Ashley is gearing up for longevity while establishing a household name. For more on Ashley LeCole, check out her fan page at www.facebook.com/IamLeCole and follow her on instagram/twitter @AshleyLeCole.



Written by Shawn Stewart

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