Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Valeda McDowell
About Valeda McDowell
I am a 61 year old, single woman who lives a life of peace, joy, and love. I have a daughter that’s 27 years old and is the light of my heart. I would love to be a part of New York fashion week and strut my stuff!
Learn More About Valeda McDowell
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
What makes me the next runway star is the fact that I am bold and unapologetically me, Valeda. From the uniqueness of my name to the confidence in my walk, I know that there is only one of me and I am always proud of that. Even though I have a strong sense of self, I also know that life was meant to be shared with others. That balance of knowing who I am and sharing the joy in my heart by serving others, I have created a beautiful life for myself and hope to inspire others to do the same. I always say, never forget to be kind, confident, and never dim your light for anyone.
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
Having the opportunity to walk the runway and experience this opportunity is allowing me to step into the spotlight and be proud of who I’ve become. When you become a mom, people tell you that you must put everyone else in your life before you. By walking this runway, I am putting myself first and sharing my light with those beyond my inner circle.
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
I am most proud of myself for juggling motherhood while also changing careers multiple times throughout the course of my daughter’s life. I am a big believer in whatever doesn’t serve you, go after something that does. By overcoming the obstacles in my path as I tried out different career avenues, I not only gained knowledge, but self confidence in knowing that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. That is something I remind myself of daily, as well as my daughter and other women around me. We are so much more capable than society makes us out to be.
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
If I were to win the $20,000, I would invest it part of it into my retirement fund. The other portion would go towards taking my daughter on a beautiful mother-daughter vacation where we could spend time connecting and enjoy quality time together. As she has fled the nest, just as many children do, I know that these last few years of her being single and without children are very numbered. Getting to see her smile and laugh makes me realize that all the obstacles and challenges I’ve faced throughout the course of my life were always worth it.
Content from Valeda McDowell
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