Credit for Cover:
Photographer: Sagaj
MUAH: Liwia Szewczyk
Jenaya Lee’s journey into modeling began with winning a contest at age three. Now, she balances her modeling career, brands, and law studies. Known for her beauty and professionalism, Jenaya thrives on catwalks and creative projects, continually evolving while staying true to herself.
A Winning Start
At just three years old, Jenaya Lee found herself stepping into the world of modeling, not through ambition, but as the winner of a Swiss Magazine Babybook contest. Competing against over 2000 kids and teens, her victory paved the way for what would soon become a flourishing career. Gracing the pages of the magazine, Jenaya’s journey from childhood began, leading to agency contracts, advertising campaigns, photo shoots, and runway appearances. Her early exposure to the industry laid a foundation for a passion that has grown deeper over the years.
Modeling as Identity
Modeling, for Jenaya, is not just a profession—it’s a reflection of her essence. Growing up surrounded by the world of fashion, she found that it wasn’t just a job but a core part of her identity. “Modeling is my life,” she says, explaining that her career in fashion is as integral to her as her ambitions beyond the catwalk. Today, Jenaya is not only a model but also a businesswoman, juggling her modeling career with managing her fashion brands—Jenaya Lee Clothing, Chloe Klaridge by Jenaya Lee, and Jenaya Lee DigiArt. In addition to these endeavors, she is pursuing a law degree to become an advocate, proving that her drive extends beyond fashion into a realm where she can make a broader impact.
Striving for Greatness
Her journey to becoming an international model is marked by continuous self-improvement. Each day, Jenaya strives to be the best version of herself, driven by a desire to hone her skills and make a lasting impact on the industry. In 2021, she was named one of the 100 most beautiful faces in the world by TC Candler’s benchmark ranking, an accolade that affirmed her presence in the fashion world. However, it’s not just her beauty that captivates. Jenaya is known for her professionalism, dedication, and passion for her craft, which have made her a favorite among photographers and fashion organizations alike. Her serious approach to her work and her deep love for it set her apart in an industry that often values surface appearances.
Heart-led Project Choices
When it comes to choosing her projects, Jenaya listens to her heart. She loves working with a variety of brands and designers, but the catwalk remains her true passion. Fashion Weeks in New York, Milan, Los Angeles, Paris, and London call to her, offering her the chance to showcase exquisite designs and collaborate with visionary creators. The thrill of traveling to these fashion capitals and being part of such iconic events motivates her to push her boundaries further and further.
Success Through Joy
But Jenaya’s success is not solely defined by the runways or photo shoots. For her, true success lies in finding joy in what she does. “I’m not chasing success,” she explains. “I’m looking to be healthy, happy, and creative.” Her philosophy is simple yet profound: when you’re content in your life, you naturally shine. Jenaya understands the power of positivity, and she aims to be a model not just of physical beauty but of hope and inspiration. Her goal is to embody a positive attitude and message, showing the world that success is more than accolades—it’s about authenticity and happiness.
Pride in Authenticity
A milestone that Jenaya cherishes is her ability to stay true to herself in an industry often fraught with pressure. She’s proud to grow each day, maintaining her authenticity, not just externally but internally. “Being true to everyone and myself is what I’m most proud of,” she says. It’s this sincerity that resonates with her fans and the industry professionals who work with her.
Exciting Future Ahead
As for the future, Jenaya is excited for the road ahead. Fashion Week in Paris and Milan awaits her in January and March, where she’ll continue to captivate audiences with her poise and passion on the catwalk. She’s also working on new designs for her fashion lines and preparing to take part in the Cannes Film Festival. Jenaya’s future is filled with promise, and she remains steadfast in her mission to balance creativity, health, and happiness as the cornerstones of her success.
Through her journey, Jenaya Lee has shown that modeling is not just about appearances—it’s about passion, purpose, and staying true to who you are. With every step on the runway and every project she embarks on, she continues to inspire others to dream and pursue their own version of success.
Credits:
Photographer: Samuel Python
Fashion Designer: Estelle Rochat
