We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Porcilla “Ziggy” Charlton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Porcilla “Ziggy”, appreciate you joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

I truly believe my sister and I have been blessed with the best parents in the world. They’ve always instilled independence, and self awareness in us both, helping shape us into the women we are today. My dad has always stressed and proved that you can do anything you put your mind to. My mother has never let us give up on our dreams, and for that alone I am grateful because without that continued support, who knows where I’d be today. Because of my parents, I know my worth, and no one can make me downplay what I bring to the table. I will forever continue to thrive and rise above in my career and duty to helping others due to the up bringing my parents were able to provide me with.

Porcilla “Ziggy”, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

At the age of 7, I began competing in Beauty Pageantry, winning Overall Queen in the very first pageant I ever entered. That led me to develop a serious passion for modeling. I went on to runaway train with Walk This Way Productions and Urban Reflections, INC. perfecting my craft, and becoming a freelance model in my area. Only standing 5’2 at the time, the odds were against me. I was considered “too short” for the fashion industry, but my talent could not be denied. After hearing “No” time after time, a “Yes” came by way of invitation from Allusions by A. Lekay Swimwear for the Illustrious New York Fashion Week, every aspiring model’s dream! This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity led me to also be seen showcasing on the runways of Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Flint, and so much more! I’ve been featured in several magazines and seen showcasing fashion and more on television. Who would’ve thought?! Being shorter than Kate Moss, but walking like Naomi Campbell left people wondering” Who is she?” leading to the establishment of my “She Is Ziggy” Empire, helping pave the way for those who wish to but may not fit the standard criteria of the industry, just as I. So far, I’ve helped over 50 individuals kick off their modeling career through my readings, which I am most proud of, trainings, and 1×1 sessions, catering to the needs of those to come next! I live by the mantra, if you can believe it, then you can achieve it! And that is what I want anyone I come in connection with to take an run with, because all you need is to believe in yourself and stay focused on your goals!

Do you sell on your site, or do you use a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc?

The more I began to receive recognition for my talent, the more I began to receive inquiries on how I was able to not succumb the fashion industry’s standards and make it as far as I have today. I’d always drop gems of do’s and don’ts on my socials, but then I thought, what’s better than a physical item to have to refer to information that will help you thrive in this industry? That’s when the idea of my first model manual – Not Your Average Size: An Aspiring Model’s Manifesto Into the Industry and Beyond was born, followed by the 2nd edition – Growing through the industry, leaving my readers informed with information from experience that works versus internet readings that may or may not work in your favor, and space to empty their thoughts, goals, challenges, etc. I sell on both my website, www.sheisziggy.com, as well as Amazon as I am partnered with them for distribution, which benefits me by solving my production needs, although I do get to personally autograph and leave encouraging words in those purchased from my website. I have buyers from all walks of life preferring different methods of purchasing, so it’s a win win either way in my eyes. As long as my purpose is served, I am good!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Refusing to accept NO for an answer has helped build my reputation within the fashion industry. Every time I didn’t let no stop me, I was able to prove my worth leading to experiences only some dream of coming true. My confidence and presence makes it hard for one to resist the need for my skills. Seeing nothing stand in my way led others to want my experience, thus furthering my warming reputation throughout the industry. I highlight this in both of books because once you allow someone to tell you what you can’t do, it impacts your self esteem in a negative light. Proving you’re worth it and not giving in is what’s going to keep you booked and busy, and that’s the goal at the end of the day – to do what you love and love what you do!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sheisziggy.com
• Instagram: @sheisziggy
• Facebook:  Porcilla Charlton
• Youtube: In the Zone with Ziggy
• Other: FB: SIZ MEDIA & MORE LLC