Today we’d like to introduce you to Valencia Courtney.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My parents put me in a modeling program when I was in high school to build up my confidence and self-esteem. From there, I gained an interest in modeling. My mom is a hair stylist, so I believe I inherited the ability to do hair naturally. She taught me how to braid when I was a young child and taught me how to style hair as I got older. I worked for my mom as a shampoo assistant for many years, learning new techniques along the way. When I went to college, there was a “Next Top Model,” competition. I had not done much of any modeling since high school up until then. I auditioned for the competition, held at my university. I did not win, but I made it to about the top 5 or 6, but I did win one of the challenges for the “Covergirl Challenge.” While I was in college, I did my friends’ hair as a side job. I would do cornrows, twists, braids, and roller sets. After I graduated from college, I started looking for modeling gigs. I used modeling gig websites and through one of them, I got a gig as a face model for a Make Up For Ever workshop in DC, at the former W Hotel and met the late AJ Crimson. He used my face to teach a beauty tutorial at their workshop. I didn’t get paid in cash, but I did get paid in beauty products! Through the same website, I met some local photographers for test shoots and time for print photos, which allowed me to build my portfolio. Through my photographer contacts, I was able to be a bridal model at the DC Bridal Brunch, in 2015. I’ve also walked in DC Fashion week three times. Through another of my model contacts, I’ve walked in 3 bridal fashion shows at the Wedding Experience Expos in 2024 and 2025. I often style my own hair and do my own makeup for my photoshoots. Currently, I am the education director at MAIA Management Group, LLC for the MAIA Modeling and Talent Training Center, in Frederick, MD. Marlene Cox is the CEO. I have worked with MAIA for about 8 years, training aspiring models and teaching them about the industry. I have also done makeup for a model at MAIA for her photoshoot. I plan to take courses to enhance my makeup skills in hopes of becoming a part-time makeup artist, in addition to modeling. Through MAIA, I was able to do a photoshoot taken by Julie Zeger Photography. I desire to walk in New York Fashion Week one day. I also have a You Tube channel called Val the Naturalista, where I show tutorials of how to braid with hair added and give reviews of crochet and braiding hair. Some of my videos have close to 10,000 views! I would love to be a hair model for a major hair company one day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Due to being only 5’7, I have had some barriers when it comes to modeling, more so runway modeling. I’m also not a “standard size model.” I have wider hips, so that can be a hinderance because most designs are not made for a more shapely woman. I would not change that about me though. I love the shape that I have. It just makes me appreciate the designers who make clothes that fit women with curves even more, because we all come in different shapes and sizes.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In my professional career, I have worked for the government for over 15 years. I started off at a military base working with infants and children as a child and youth program assistant for three years. I then switched careers and went to a different agency, first working as an extramural support assistant for peer review sessions. After about a year, I got a detail as a program analyst and received a permanent position, and have been in that position for over 10 years. I specialize in reviewing grants for policy specific compliance. I am most proud of the growth that I have undergone throughout my career, with thanks to a particular colleague who served as a mentor. What sets me apart from others is my ability to remain calm under periods of pressure and adapting to change.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about my city is the suburban feel. It’s relatively quiet and I have shopping stores and a variety of grocery stores nearby. I also like that there are many walking trails. What I dislike is that it is far from DC and surrounding areas.
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