Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Isaac Martinez
Must be in the top 10 in their group to advance to the next round.
Voting for this round ends on August 7, 2026 at 9:00 PM EDT
About Isaac Martinez
I’m a Marine Sergeant and psychology student at Texas A&M who loves fitness, meeting new people, and trying new things. I’m hardworking, outgoing, and excited for the chance to step outside my comfort zone and show my personality.
Learn More About Isaac Martinez
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
I believe I could be the Next Runway Star because I bring confidence, discipline, adaptability, and a genuine willingness to grow. As a Marine and college student, I have learned how to remain composed under pressure, accept feedback, and carry myself with purpose. At the same time, this opportunity would allow me to show a more creative and expressive side of myself that people may not immediately expect. I am not afraid of a challenge, and I would approach every runway, photoshoot, and new experience with professionalism, energy, and an open mind. I may not come from a traditional modeling background, but I believe that is part of what makes me stand out. I would bring my own story, personality, and presence to the competition while proving that confidence can come from having the courage to enter a completely unfamiliar space.
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
This experience would mean having the opportunity to step outside the identity and routine I have known for most of my adult life. The Marine Corps has helped shape me into a disciplined leader, but I also want to challenge myself creatively and show that people do not have to fit into only one category. Being selected would allow me to enter a world that is completely new to me, build confidence in a different way, and discover abilities I may not know I have. It would also be a chance to represent people who may be interested in fashion or modeling but hesitate because they do not have a traditional background or feel like they belong. More than anything, I would value the memories, relationships, and personal growth that would come from taking a chance on something unexpected.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
I am most proud of the person I have become through learning to keep moving forward even when life becomes demanding or uncertain. Balancing service as an active-duty Marine with college, leadership responsibilities, personal obligations, and preparation for my future has tested my discipline and resilience. There have been moments when I questioned myself or felt overwhelmed, but I learned that strength is not pretending everything is easy. It is remaining accountable, asking for help when necessary, and continuing to improve. I am proud that I have not allowed setbacks or fear of failure to prevent me from pursuing larger goals. Every challenge has made me more patient, self-aware, and determined. That growth matters to me because it has shown me that I can enter unfamiliar situations, adapt, and become better through the experience.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
I would treat the $20,000 as an opportunity to create long-term stability rather than spend it all immediately. I would place the majority into savings and investments while using a portion to support my education and prepare for the expenses that will come with the next stage of my Marine Corps career. I would also set aside some of it to help my family and contribute to a cause that supports service members, veterans, or families facing difficult circumstances. Winning would certainly be exciting, and I would allow myself to celebrate the experience, but I would want the prize to continue benefiting me and others long after the competition ended. For me, the best use of the money would be turning a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity into something that strengthens my future and allows me to give back.
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