Canutillo High School freshman Mya Sanchez is set to make waves on the runways of New York Fashion Week when she walks the shows of swimwear designer Krissy King. From small-town roots to the fashion capital, her journey reflects a remarkable fusion of a passion for fashion and perseverance.
Sanchez began modeling at the age of six. Three years and a few commercial gigs later, she decided to step back and focus on her other passion, cheerleading. A year ago, she got bit by the modeling bug once again and joined local talent agency Laura’s Productions where she got the opportunity to run the pageant circuit in El Paso and New Mexico with much success.
“I participated in Miss Teen El Paso, where I placed top 15 in my first pageant ever and then a month later I also joined Miss Teen New Mexico and got fifth runner up in a state pageant,” Sanchez said. “After that doors started opening and I started doing some photo shoots, collaborations, El Paso Fashion Week and a few more fashion shows.”
Recently, the 15-year-old signed two major non exclusive contracts with Muse Management based in Oregon and MMG New York. Muse management will represent Sanchez in the Pacific Northwest part of the United States while MMG will represent her in New York and California.
Sanchez learned she will be gracing the runways of the Big Apple next month. An opportunity that leaves the young model with a plethora of emotions.
“I am happy, shocked, excited, scared and nervous all at the same time. I casted with Krissy King in December. I didn’t hear that I got chosen until last week,” Sanchez said. “It was nerve wrecking waiting but so worth it. I’ve followed Krissy King for a while and her swimwear line is amazing. I will be walking for her teen swimwear line and her couture line as well.”
As the Canutillo teen reaches the pinnacle of her modeling career thus far, she reminds herself that the modeling industry can be fleeting and the most important thing is to stay humble, kind, have fun with it and approach her success with a grateful heart.
In the future, Sanchez plans to attend the University of Florida, pursue a career as a nurse aesthetician and continue her modeling career. She encourages others to follow their dreams even if they may seem unattainable. Anything can be possible with hard work and determination, she says.
“Go after it. Don’t be afraid or listen to the whispers or negative comments. Everyone can go after their dreams,” Sanchez said. You just have to be willing to put in the work and have a positive mindset. Don’t let rejection upset you. Keep going after it. I’m a 15-year-old from the Canutillo community. If I can do it, so can you.”