ChristieOhh: Has modeling been a childhood dream of yours?

Christina: All the women in my family have that knack for fashion, my mother even modeled in her twenties! So, I guess it was a childhood dream but also instilled in my DNA ….LOL

ChristieOhh: What was your first modeling experience like for you?

Christina: My first experience was at a local fashion show at my high school and it was such a rush. Other girls were nervous but I was so excited to transform myself into a runway diva. Many people that know me, know that my character is extremely laid back, outgoing, humble and far from being a diva. But on the runway, I feel I can become someone else and it feels good .

ChristieOhh: What challenges have you overcome in the entertainment business?

Christina: When I first started in this business, an agency suggested that I should consider getting surgery on my smile lines and hips….as you can see I didn’t listen to them. In this business and every business, you need to be true to yourself or you’ll be lost, I’m not a size 2 or even 8/10, but I love my curves.

ChristieOhh: Who are some of your influences?

Christina: I look to the women in my family! Growing up, I watched my single mother work multiple jobs for years to provide me everything I ever needed. Through her actions, she taught me how to be strong, independent, giving, and appreciative and instilled her work ethics.

ChristieOhh: How do you stay motivated in a “size” driven industry?

Christina: I like a challenge ….when someone tells me “NO” my determination becomes 10xstronger. Yes, there are times when I’m not picked for a campaign or fashion show, but I have to keep moving onward and upward. Think about it…if you keep putting your energy towards something in the past, you’ll lose out on the present and possible future opportunities.

ChristieOhh: You have accomplished so much, what’s a goal for you now?

Christina: My goals continue to be the same. I just want to be better than I was yesterday and the day before.I want to continue inspiring others to follow their dreams and love themselves regardless of their size/age & race. Also, I want to continue in bringing Autism Awareness to the forefront, especially in the Hispanic and African American communities. Culturally, we have a harder time accepting the diagnoses and in the interim we delay early intervention which is critical to better our children’s lives.

ChristieOhh: What’s your best advice to all plus size teenagers dealing with body image challenges?

Christina: Avoid toxic environments that promote unhealthy situations and have a realistic idea about your body….not everyone can be a size 2-4 or even 6-8. What makes us special is that everyone is different! Whether you’re slim, athletic, or curvy create a positive lifestyle of activities and friendships

ChristieOhh: What’s next for you?

Christina: On July 27-28th I’ll be in Baltimore participating in Curves Rock Weekend (http://www.curvesrockweekend.com). This month I will be shooting for Qrystal Frazier’s new collection and I will be the face of Madrag/10 Spot. Also, I am the newly appointed celebrity events correspondent for the major plus size/lifestyle online magazine Venus Diva! POW!!!!!!

You can stay updated on all my upcoming projects by following me on twitter www.twitter.com/christinamendez or checking out my website at www.christinamendez.com