America's Next Natural Model 2012.
Chassity Bynum Winner of American Next Natural Model
Congratulations Chassity! How are you feeling?
I am overjoyed!
What went through your mind when you read the final email saying you had won?
I read the email at 3am and it immediately felt like I hadn't slept at all. I was extremely happy and had a lot of other emotions at the same time.
Let’s back up a bit; how did you hear about the competition and why did you decide to enter?
I was already familiar with the site and was visiting it for information for my group site where people with natural hair can meet each other. When I searched for it, I saw the contest.
Can you tell us what you do in your daily life and how you were able to combine this competition with it? Have you done modeling work before?
Well, when I started the contest I had already been a stay-at-home mom for a year and a half (I have two kids, ages 7 and 2), but when contest assignment 7 started I had just started a full-time job. Needless to say, that's when things got really interesting.
I've done some modeling work now and then, but mostly during my college years. I'd been out of it for a while, so it was nice to get a taste of the modeling world again.
People often underestimate this competition because it is an online competition, but I know it is hard work and you really have to put yourself into it. What was the hardest part of the competition for you?
Reading the comments was the hardest part of the competition for me. I have a very smooth back and I am naturally very combative, so the comments did not offend me, I was just eager to take on the next challenge to show and prove myself.
Which of the eight different assignments did you find the most difficult and why? And which was the most fun?
The most difficult assignment for me was the accessories assignment, because during the shoot I had problems with my clothing. Parts of myself that I didn't want to show were visible, so I had to be very creative...all on a Saturday! My favorite assignment of the Marron assignment because it really touched me. I am familiar with challenges and trials, because I had a heart attack after the birth of my youngest son. When you have had to fight for your life, you look at it differently. You accept challenges and face them with ease and confidence, because you know you have to and can persevere.
America's Next Natural Model is designed to teach aspiring models what goes into a photoshoot to think beyond the model level; You learn to think about the bigger picture, the photographer, location, style, dressing, etc. Do you think you've learned any of these elements?
I learned everything above. Being the captain of this ship has really changed my perspective. It is not easy at all and everything is at stake. You have to think in every possible way how you want the shoot to come across to the viewers. Experience is everything.
Who do you think was your biggest competitor?
I would say Reshonda, because she was just as determined as I was.
You've won the $1,000 grand prize. What are you going to spend it on?
My 7 year old daughter seems to have found all sorts of ways for 'us' to spend the money. I haven't figured it out yet, but at least I have help :).
You also won a photoshoot with Adrian Alicea, for which you will be brought to New York by Sula NYC and Iman Cosmetics was interested in shooting an introduction video with you. What do you think about that?
I can't believe it. I'm so excited about how it's all turned out and feel blessed that this is even just the beginning!
Will you continue with modeling?
Modeling will always have a place in my heart. I was introduced to it before I was a teenager. My mother wanted me to have confidence and be proud of my chipmunk teeth, the red Sally Jesse Raphael glasses I wore in the 8th grade, and my skinny body. She prescribed classes that taught me confidence, posture, and etiquette. Now that I am an adult, I am always open to modeling and advancing the position of the black woman who is often portrayed in one way by the media.
Do you think natural curly hair is a fad or something that is here to stay?
Naturally curly hair is here to stay! As a country we are becoming more health conscious and people are becoming more aware of what they are putting in and on their bodies. The dangers of hair dye and chemicals are more well known than they used to be so I hope sites like this will continue to educate people.
You had so many different hairstyles during the competition. Do you have a favorite?
My hairdresser went all out on my hair every week! I loved all the styles, but I personally don’t like those complicated looks. That’s why my personal favorite was the loose, wavy twist out. I love big hair!!!
How did your family support you during the race? Here's a chance to thank your fans, family and friends.
I had the best support during the competition! I am very blessed with that.
I want to give God the glory first and foremost!
I had a team of amazing people who literally helped me through the competition. My “TEAM” consisted of my natural hair stylist Taji Shabu Jones, my photographer Dajuan Jones, Amani Smith natural jewelry designer, counselor Kim Smith, sister friend and advisor Geneva Michell.
My cheerleaders were my husband as the coach, my kids because they ooohed and ahhhed at every picture they saw on the computer, my mom who gave me her interpretation of what the judges said and a whole bunch of friends and family who prayed for me and cheered me on during the competition.
Photographer: Dajuan Jones of In His Image Photograpy @ http://www.dajuanjones.com
Hairdresser specializing in natural curly hair: Taji Shabu Jones @ http://www.tajisalon.com
Natural jewelry from Amani Muturi New African Jewelry
And what would you like to say to the Going Natural family?
I want to thank those who took the time to vote for me, who left a word of encouragement and who ultimately made me ANNM 2012. We all have our unique qualities. It is important how you use them and what you do to uplift another.
In addition to $1,000, a photoshoot with Adrian Alicea, Chassity will also receive the products below as the winner of ANNM 2012.
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