Name: Alma Beaty
Location: Email?
Occupation: Student/ Model
How did you get in the modeling industry?
I got into the modeling industry by starting with Emorej’s fashion show, Apparatus II back in August 1st, 2010. Even though I wasn’t sure whether or not I will be able to make it, and was terrified of getting rejected because of my hearing loss, I still did what I had to do to see what was in store for me by showing them what I can do if other girls can do it. It was from there when my name started expanding in the modeling industry once I hit the runway.
Many people don’t know this but you are deaf, what are some of the disadvantages that you might face in this industry?
The disadvantages that I know that I will be facing in the modeling industry are being left out, and not knowing what I need to do when told to. The feeling of being left out is extremely frustrating because you have to go around asking other models to explain what has recently been announced even if the announcement has been made more than once and hesitating to ask the CEO to explain everything once more.
Was there ever a situation that made you feel like giving up a career of modeling?
Definitely not my deafness! But indeed there has been a situation that made me feel like giving up a career in modeling. Usually looking in the mirror can be quite a negative thing for me because I normally end up comparing myself to other models in high fashion industry or those who are the catwalk goddesses. And also, I developed a back problem and the spine was no longer the same after I was diagnosed with Sickle Cell at age ten. When I see other models with normal backs, I often question myself “Why can’t my back be normal once again?” Regardless of the negative thoughts, I still remind myself that I am who I am and that I am perfect in God’s eyes and that is all I need to know.
Who are your inspirations and what other things inspire you?
The first person that inspired me was Marlee Matlin, a famous deaf actress. When I first found out who she was, I thought it was an extraordinary thing for a deaf person to be a famous actress. And knowing how Helene Keller met so many famous people such as Theodore Roosevelt inspired me. She achieved so much more than anyone can imagine in spite of being deaf and blind. But other than that, songs had also inspired me into following my dreams and they still do even today. Jordin Sparks-One Step At A Time, Hilary Duff-Fly and Mariah Carey’s Hero. Every time I sing these songs to myself, I realize that I have a strong connection to each of them and they are what keep me going if no one is around to lecture me about chasing my dreams (laughs).
What does creativity means to you?
Like a little girl who knows how to dress up her Barbie doll, creativity comes from using our imagination to do things. Without imagination, we cannot be creative, without creativity; there would be no such thing as fashion.
What is your outlet? How do you unwind?
My outlet is being able to write things freely in my diary and I usually find a way to turn them into a story or talking to someone that I trust. And because I am somewhat half hearing on my right ear, I unwind myself by listening to good music or just listen to a really good beat of music without any lyrics, then close my eyes as my mind travels to my favorite places or being with someone I am close with (my mom and my brother).
If you had a chance to work with any one person in the fashion industry, who would it be?
TYRA BANKS! Definitely Tyra Banks! I love her and her fierce attitude. Working with her will be a dream come true!
What is your ideal photo shoot?
(Laughs) My ideal photo shoot? I cannot think of one because there are so many ideal photo shoots flowing in my mind right now. But I’d like to do some crazy editorial photo shoot, looking like some hot, giant model standing between small houses. That will be really marvelous!!
How can we make that happen?
I don’t mind shipping myself all the way to New York to work with you guys (laughs). But I do believe that the only way you can make that happen is to see what I can do and allow me to prove that no, I am not just a deaf person, I am someone who always dares to dream. I can guarantee you it will be a huge success!
Phenomenal model! I worked with Alma and she was easy to work. She always knew what to do and that made my as a photographer easier. Modeling is about more than being pretty or super skinny. As a model you have to know how to move in front of the camera. Alma has the look and the moves!
Great Article! Alma is great! I went to high school with her! I am hard of hearing myself. I am very proud of her for going after her dreams and not letting her deafness stop her!! I only wish her all the best!
I can feel the honesty in every word you say….you really touched my heart we love you and I think really the modeling industry needs such honesty……
Alma is a wonderful young lady and will go far in life. I knew that the first time I met her in the 9th grade as her Interpreter at Eleanor Roosevelt HS, in Maryland. The moment she learned Sign Language it opened a door for her so wide it will never close. I have always told her to never look back, just keep going and hold your head up high. I am so very proud of her, she will be successful and she will have people saying her name proudly. I know I have and still do. Tyra Banks, look out for Alma and give her an opportunity. She will make you proud to know her. I am..Thanks Alma.
Alma, you are great and strong woman. Keep the positive energy going and remember God first in everything you do. Love you:-)
Viola Tebah
Coppin State University.
WOW! Alma, I am very proud of you and you brought me tears and joy as I read the article! you’ve inspired me even since the first day I met you. I am very proud to say that You are one of my role MODEL!
Alma is one of those amazing people I’ve met in my life. She has this amazing endurance. From what I know, she wakes up 6 o’clock every morning to catch the metro to Gallaudet University and from 8 A.M to 4 P.M. Alma works there and then right after she gets off work she goes straight to her model show. Alma even mentioned sometimes she has to sacrifice her sleep to catch up with her assignments. I honestly don’t know how she can do this. If I were her, I may not be able to make it through. Alma’s personality skill is staying calm and efficient under pressure. She is a true warrior at heart. Way to go Alma! I’m so proud of you for believing in yourself. Keep dreaming BIG! Te amor mi chica!
Alma is an amazing individual. She is very pleasant to work with, she has a great sense of humour, she’s polite, always cheerful and always has a positive attitude. love her!