When it comes to social media and social pressures, confidence is key.
In order to overcome unrealistic expectations of beauty, it’s key to stay true to who you are, have strong values, and always commit to feeling the best version of yourself.
And if anyone knows this to be true, it’s Tanaye White.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model feels empowered to use her platform to spread awareness about mental health, fitness, and self-confidence in order to inspire young girls to not get lost in the crazy world of social media, and always know to look inwards rather than outwards for approval.
“I believe that with social media becoming inundated with filters and picture perfect feeds, women and young girls often feel inadequate or less beautiful,” Tanaye exclusively tells GLAMOUR South Africa.
“I’ve felt this many times, but I’ve learned that taking social media breaks helps relieve those social pressures.
Also, every morning, I look at myself in the mirror and say one thing that I like about myself. It’s completely changed my self-confidence.”
For more on the boss babe’s best fitness tips, lifestyle hacks and wellness advice, read the full interview below!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a corporate communications strategist turned model! Most people know me for winning Sports Illustrated Swim Search.
But many don't know that I also have a Master's degree, am a business owner, and have only been modeling for three years! I love all things fashion and fitness. And I am a huge advocate for mental health awareness.
What was the transition like from corporate to creative?
My career change has been exciting but also nerve wracking. I'm a Type A person, so not knowing exactly how things would align for me definitely caused stress at times.
But when I look back on all that I've done in such a short time, I'm proud because I've accomplished things that many can only dream of!
Was there a certain fitness routine you followed before you entered the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Search?
I'm a retired college athlete, so fitness has always been a part of my lifestyle.
But during Swim Search, I began incorporating hot yoga into my workout routine! I'm not flexible at all so it was challenging, but I left each session feeling more centered mentally and physically.
What is your fitness routine now? How do you maintain a healthy figure?
I am obsessed with cardio! I always start my workouts with a one mile run or 10-minute jump rope.
Then I do a combination of core and HIIT workouts on my yoga mat. I finish my workout sessions with a yoga-inspired cool down stretch.
Do you feel as if social media places an unrealistic expectation on women, especially younger ones?
I believe that with social media becoming inundated with filters and picture-perfect feeds, women and young girls often feel inadequate or less beautiful.
I've felt this many times, but I've learned that taking social media breaks helps relieve those social pressures.
Also, every morning, I look at myself in the mirror and say one thing that I like about myself. It's completely changed my self-confidence.
As a model, how do you feel like you have a role in changing that stigma?
As a model, it's almost our job to present ourselves in a picture-perfect way at all times. But life isn't perfect.
So, I like to share the realities of my life on Instagram; whether it be sharing that I had a really bad day or that I'm in a mental funk.
When I'm transparent, I feel so many people can relate to me more than a perfect picture ever could!
What would you tell younger individuals who are looking to get into modeling? How much of your success is attributed to fitness and a healthy lifestyle?
I'd say whatever you dream of doing...go out and do it! Don't let fear hold you back from attending that casting or open call.
You don't have to fit into a certain mold to become a successful model. As long as you treat your body with kindness, you're good!
How do you think mental health and fitness go hand in hand?
Fitness is key to a healthy mind. Any time I have a bad day, I force myself to go to the gym because the endorphins released during my workout always make me feel better.
If you're ever feeling down, take a walk or do some yoga! I promise you'll begin to feel so much better.
