Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephany Amado

Hi Stephany, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

began my modeling career at just 12 years old in Cape Verde, where I was born and raised. Despite my tomboyish nature, my cousin’s invitation to participate in a fashion show for the French-Cape Verdean designer Cindy Monteiro piqued my interest. Initially, I was apprehensive, worrying about walking in heels and fearing my mom’s disapproval. Undeterred, I secretly bought my first pair of heels with money from my stepdad and trained intensively.

When the big day arrived, stepping onto the runway for the first time was electrifying. I was a natural, and the experience sparked a deep passion for modeling. From that moment, I threw myself into every pageant and competition in high school, consistently placing first or second. For me, it was never about the crown; it was about perfecting my craft and the thrill of preparing for each show. By 15, I was well-known in my country, participating in numerous fashion shows, hosting events, and working with national radio and TV, even interviewing artists at the Kriol Jazz Festival for the Portuguese TV network RTP.

At 16, I moved to the U.S. to complete my studies. Unable to attend college immediately, I focused on supporting my family and advancing my modeling career. I frequently traveled from Boston to New York for auditions and agency meetings, always dreaming of living in New York. Despite facing many rejections, I remained persistent.

Three years ago, I signed with Marilyn Agency, taking a leap of faith into the unknown. The journey has been demanding, with its fair share of challenges and rejections, but I’ve embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. This year, I was thrilled to join Major Model Management, a team I consider more of a family that fosters collective growth.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

The journey hasn’t been easy. Picture a 20-year-old from a small island nation, surrounded by loved ones her entire life, suddenly finding herself in one of the world’s biggest cities to chase her dreams. That was me. Arriving in New York City with less than $500, I struggled to find work until I landed a job at a small clothing shop called Madrag in the Bronx, where I first lived.

It was there that I met Fantcha, a remarkable woman and an icon from Cape Verde, introduced to me by my manager Tony Araujo. She became my surrogate family in the city, and I came to see her as my “mom.” Her support was invaluable, helping me secure a position at Saks Fifth Avenue. At Saks, I immersed myself in the world of fashion, jotting down the names of designers I dreamed of working with, instead of merely selling their clothes.

Two years ago, I faced another pivotal moment. I handed in my two-week notice to embrace the unknown once more. This time, it was to return to Cape Verde after six years and compete in the inaugural Miss Cape Verde International pageant. I was driven by the desire to change history, as no African woman had ever won the Miss International title in Japan after 60 years of the competition.

I returned home, fought fiercely, and won the crown. But when I came back to the States, balancing the dual roles of beauty queen and model was challenging. I traveled frequently, and at one point, I nearly faced homelessness. Once again, Fantcha came to my rescue, letting me stay with her until I could afford my own apartment.

There were times when I was overwhelmed and considered giving it all up to return to Boston for a simpler life. But then I’d remind myself, “You didn’t come all the way from Africa just to quit now. Hang in there, work harder, and let the Universe work its magic.” And that’s what I did. My faith and determination have kept me moving forward, even though I’m still striving to become the person I know I’m destined to be. Every day is a rollercoaster, but I’m committed to enjoying the ride and pursuing my dreams.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

What sets me apart is my story. I embrace who I am now without being tethered to my past or overly fixated on who I want to become. I live each day to its fullest because I believe that success is not a destination but the journey we experience along the way.

Today, I cherish my roles as a model, beauty queen, and host not just because of my passion for communication and photography, but because I want to inspire others. I aim to uplift those who, like me, were raised with the notion that they weren’t enough due to their skin tone, social background, or religion. I want every African child to see my story and understand that their dreams are within reach. Even if they stumble a hundred times, as long as they have the strength to rise up one more time, their dreams are attainable. My story is a testament that failure only occurs when we give up.

What I am most proud of is how far I’ve come despite the countless rejections. I stayed true to my vision even when those around me doubted it. I take pride not just in the path I’ve carved but also in the way my journey has enabled me to use my heart and resources to support and uplift those in need.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?

Growing up in Africa, I have countless cherished memories from my childhood—helping my grandmother on her farm during school holidays, riding donkeys, playing in the dirt with friends, and running wild in the open fields. Yet, my most treasured memory is the time spent with my grandfather, Cristiano, whom I lovingly called “Papa Taninho.”

Every day after work, he would come home carrying a keychain with what seemed like a hundred keys. The clinking sound of those keys was my cue to hide behind the door, excitedly waiting to surprise him. Of course, he knew exactly where I was hiding, but he would always play along, acting surprised and calling out, “Come here, Pituku(my childhood name),” before enveloping me in a warm embrace and showering me with kisses.

Even now, as I reflect on those moments, they bring tears of joy to my eyes. Papa Taninho passed away a long time ago, but his presence still feels very much alive in my heart. During challenging times, I find comfort in his memory, knowing that I am never truly alone. His love and the simple joy we shared continue to inspire and guide me every day.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official_stehh/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Stephany-Amado/100063808740311/?mibextid=LQQJ4d