Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
John Cousin
Must be in the top 20 in their group to advance to the next round.
Voting for this round ends on July 30, 2026 at 9:00 PM EDT
About John Cousin
I’m John Cousin, 28, born and raised in Jackson, MS. I’m a dreamer chasing my lifelong goal of becoming a supermodel. I bring confidence, passion, and personality to every runway. I’m not just modeling a look I’m creating a legacy.
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What makes you the Next Runway Star?
I am the next runway star because I don’t just wear fashion I tell a story through it. Every time I step onto a runway, I bring more than a look. I bring confidence, resilience, and the ability to command attention without saying a word. My presence comes from real-life experiences, growth, and the determination to keep pushing forward no matter the obstacles. That authenticity is something people can feel the moment I walk into a room. What separates me from other models is my versatility. I can transform to fit a designer’s vision while still leaving a memorable impression that is uniquely my own. Whether it’s high fashion, editorial, avant-garde, or commercial, I understand that modeling is not about wearing clothes it’s about bringing them to life. I am not chasing a runway moment; I am building a legacy. The next runway star should inspire people to believe in themselves, embrace their individuality, and walk boldly in who they are. That’s exactly what I represent.
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
This opportunity would mean everything to me because modeling has been my dream for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, I didn’t always see people who looked like me achieving success on major runways, but that never stopped me from believing in myself. This experience would be more than a competition it would be proof that hard work, persistence, and faith can open doors no matter where you come from. I want to inspire others who feel overlooked to keep chasing their dreams. Walking that runway wouldn’t just represent me; it would represent every person who was told their goals were too big and chose to pursue them anyway.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
What I’m most proud of is my ability to keep going even when life hasn’t gone according to plan. I’ve faced setbacks, disappointments, financial struggles, and moments where it would have been easier to quit on my dreams. Instead, I’ve continued working, growing, and believing in myself. Modeling has never been just about looking good it’s about confidence, discipline, and perseverance. Every challenge I’ve faced has made me stronger and more determined to create a better future. I’m proud that despite obstacles, I still wake up every day with the same passion and hunger to succeed.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
The $20,000 would be life changing. I would use it to invest in my modeling career through professional development, travel opportunities, portfolio expansion, and networking within the fashion industry. A portion would also go toward financial stability, helping me eliminate debt and create a stronger foundation for my future. Most importantly, the prize would allow me to focus more on pursuing my goals instead of worrying about limitations. I don’t see the money as an ending I see it as a tool to build the career and life I’ve been working toward for years.
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