Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Rebekah Leopold
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 Rebekah Leopold
I am a Healthcare worker and visual artist from Salem Oregon. I spend my time doing art or gaming with friends on group calls. I have always wanted to be a plus size model for fun. You never know, right?
Learn More About Rebekah Leopold
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
I know the meaning of hard work and what it means to sink your teeth into challenges. Although I have an unorthodox look for the runway, I believe that my confidence and versatile sense of determination can get me through any situation. I do not have a fear of hard work, and I know that it will not be easy or comfortable to do the things that I want to do to make me successful. I believe I can do anything that is set in front of me. I am fearless and ready to work.
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
When I was a kid I grew up watching shows like America's Next Top Model, and have always had an admiration for fashion and runway shows. If I could do the runway walk that I practice on the hospital floors during my nightshift at work, to a real runway, that would be phenomenal.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
When I was growing up I struggled with depression and mental health issues. Those issues caused me to gain over 250 lbs from binge eating and a feeling of worthlessness. I have climbed my way out of that pit through hard work and dedication to loving myself. I sank my emotions into art and developed a skill for illustration and design throughout my teenage years. While making attempts to lose weight, I learned how to roller skate. Skating brought me a sense of balance and freedom I had never felt in my life. But because of skating, I earned an ACL tear and a Meniscus injury that had me rewrite the direction of my future. The injury forced me to listen to my body, my mind, and my feelings, and really care about my body. I am proud of myself for never giving up despite my circumstances, and my determination to healing and growing in character, and refusing to hide in the shadows any longer.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
I would use the money to further my artistic education and carry on to a tattoo school here in Oregon, get my licensure and start working the job I really do want to be working, as an artist! I want to continue studying and furthering my experience as an illustrator, and honing my skills. Alternatively, I would like to use the money as a down payment on a house, so I can have my own studio from home.
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