Model Diaries with Jasmine Sanders

Photographed by Sarah Krick

Jasmines Sanders
@goldenbarbie

Where were you born? Where did you grow up?
I was born in Frankenthal, Germany, and I grew up in Columbia, South Carolina.

You are known by many and through social media as ‘Golden Barbie’, what is the meaning behind it?
When I was younger I had the nickname ‘Goldilocks’ because of my blonde hair. When I got older my friends would say I looked like a Barbie, so when my sister and I were trying to pick screen names in the early days of social media, Golden Barbie stuck!

How did you begin your career as a model?
I began modeling at 13 years old. I was discovered by Sheilah Dixon from Millie Lewis in Columbia, South Carolina. I did a test shoot and the images were sent to New York!

What has been your biggest career highlight?
My biggest career highlight would definitely be attending my first Met Gala. I always loved watching how creative everyone gets and it was stunning to see the designs in person!

What do you think is the most challenging part of the modeling industry?
The modeling industry, like every industry, was definitely challenging this past year. Everyone had to pivot and figure out a way to work in the new “norm.” I hope things get back to normal soon. While I have been on set a few times for work, I can’t wait to be around all my friends in the industry and getting to do what we love to do again in normal times.

What is the best thing that happened to you this year?
This has really been a tough year for everyone and I’m really thankful that my friends and family have been safe through this trying time.

Top 3 things on your bucket list for 2021?
It’s pretty difficult to see what the world will look like next year, but I definitely hope to continue to work, to be on set, to see my family more, and to travel again.

What makes you smile the most?
Being around my friends and family and seeing other people happy makes me smile the most. I love making other people laugh, smile, feel loved and appreciated.

As a woman with a lot of influence through social media platforms and a successful career, how do you hope to influence people most?
My hope for everyone is that they embrace themselves and all the parts of them that make them unique. I try to promote individuality and self-acceptance.

You have always promoted a healthy lifestyle – what advice can you give for incorporating nutrition into people’s daily routines?
A big part of incorporating nutrition into your routine is trying to achieve a lifestyle. Being healthy is a continuous journey so finding foods and activities you genuinely enjoy will help achieve longevity.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
People would be surprised to know that I actually love deep cleaning my own house. Cleaning really helps me destress and calm down when I have anxiety.

What are your top 3 beauty hacks you use daily?
I like keeping my sheet masks in the refrigerator. I also like to put my eye patches under my sheet masks, and I sometimes like to do my makeup before getting in the shower because I like the steam to set and give a dewy look when I get out, but that’s my personal preference.

Favorite beauty product?
My favorite beauty product is the Dior Capture Youth Serum. I use it daily and take it everywhere I go!

What does empowerment mean to you?
Empowerment means knowing that you set a goal and you’re fully equipped with all of the tools necessary to achieve that goal.

What inspires you most?
I’m always inspired by my friends and family who have supported me on my journey to chase my dreams. I love making them proud.

What advice do you have for someone who aspires to have a successful career like your own?
The most important thing when striving for success is to define success for yourself. Really think about your own personal values and goals and work toward the specific definition for yourself.

If your life were a song, what would the title be?
If my life were a song the title would be ‘All Jokes Aside’ by Jasmine Sanders.

What would you like to say to your fans?
I hope that everyone is continuing to stay strong during these trying times and try to find ways to release and relax. I know that things are really hard right now, but it’s important to try and find time to relax and find peace and happiness during these trying times.

What can people expect to see from you in the year of 2021?
In 2021 expect for me to continue being vocal and using my voice to speak on issues that are important to me.

What do you love most about Modeliste magazine and why are you excited to be on this Cover?
It’s such an honor to be on the cover of Modeliste! I’ve admired the magazine for so long and I’m honored to be in the company of such amazing women who have been on the cover in the past.