The Courage to Be Seen

Sometimes, a single opportunity is all it takes to change the course of a life. For Paula Howell, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. A model, hairstylist, and painter, she sees creativity as a way of discovering herself, while modelling continues to open new doors. This season, Paula graces the cover of FashionX’s Spring/Summer issue. We spoke with her about creativity, self-acceptance, the power of small steps, and why the most meaningful transformations often begin the moment we choose to say yes to ourselves.

Many people know you as a model, but creativity plays a much bigger role in your life. Who is Paula beyond the runway?

Outside of modelling, I work as a hairstylist, and it’s one of those professions that allows me to express my creativity every single day. I also love painting, swimming, and making time to give back to my community by volunteering at church events.

For me, creativity is a way of life. Whether it’s art, hairstyling, or fashion, I’ve always wanted to create something that inspires others.

You’ve also spoken about wanting to become a teacher. What inspired that dream?

I’d love to attend teachers’ college in the future.

Last summer, I volunteered at the Black Excellence Art Camp, and the experience helped me rediscover my passion for painting while showing me how important it is to support children when they’re struggling with self-confidence. Watching creativity help children believe in themselves reminded me just how powerful art can be. It inspired me to encourage others in the same way.

How did your journey into modelling begin? Was it always your dream?

I’ve always loved fashion because creativity has always been at the centre of who I am.

While studying hairstyling, I was approached twice about modelling at Milton Fashion Week. The first time, I turned the opportunity down because I didn’t believe in myself. Afterwards, I prayed and told God that if modelling was truly part of His plan for me, the opportunity would come back. When I was approached a second time, I chose to trust that moment — and I said yes.

Looking back, I realise that one decision completely changed my life.

For a long time, I believed modelling was only possible for people with money or industry connections. Eventually, I realised it was simply a misconception. All I needed was the courage to take the first step.

Every opportunity since has reminded me that I’m living the dream I once thought was out of reach.

Did you ever think about walking away?

I think every creative person experiences doubt.

I still question myself from time to time, but those moments are also what help me grow. Faith has always been my greatest source of strength, reminding me to keep moving forward even when I couldn’t see what was waiting ahead.

It taught me to trust my journey more than my fears.

 

Looking back, what achievement means the most to you, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, one of my proudest moments was becoming the lead model for Dorian Who during Toronto’s Own Fashion Week.

Personally, one of my proudest achievements is reaching two years of sobriety this October. That journey has taught me discipline, gratitude, and the belief that people are always capable of changing their lives.

This season, you’re the cover star of FashionX. What does that moment mean to you?

Being on this cover means more to me than I can put into words.

For the first time, I feel as though I’m beginning to see in myself what those around me have seen for so long. It feels as though life has given me another chance — a reminder that dreams really can come true when you’re ready to embrace them.

 

What keeps you inspired?

Faith has always been my greatest source of inspiration. 

It shapes my outlook, guides the way I treat others, and influences every aspect of my work. Above all, it reminds me to stay kind, remain persistent, and find purpose in everything I choose to pursue.

Is there a memory from your childhood that helped shape the person you are today?

I was bullied at school because I was very skinny and had a gap between my front teeth.

For a long time, I believed those things made me less beautiful. Eventually, I learned to see them differently and realised they were part of what makes me unique.

That experience taught me to show greater compassion towards others. If sharing my story helps even one person embrace who they are, then everything I went through has served a purpose.

What qualities do you believe are most important for building a successful modelling career today?

Ambition. Discipline. Creativity. Strong time management. The ability to perform under pressure.

Above all, it’s about staying true to yourself. There will always be people with opinions about who you should be, but protecting your individuality is one of the most important things you can do.

What’s next for you?

I come from both European and Caribbean backgrounds, so I’d love for my first major international collaboration to take me to either Berlin or Jamaica.

I’m excited to reconnect with those roots and share that journey through my own content.

Of course, I’d also love to work in fashion capitals such as Milan and Paris. Right now, my biggest priority is to keep growing, continue learning, and embrace every opportunity I choose to pursue.

Finally, what advice would you give to young people who are just beginning to pursue their dreams?

Don’t let fear make your decisions for you.

What’s truly meant for you won’t pass you by.

Rejection isn’t failure — it’s simply redirection.

Be kind to others, work hard, and don’t be afraid to take that first step. Sometimes, all it takes is one small step to change everything.

Photography by Dalila Fernandez @dalilaf.ph

Model: Paula Josephine @prxncessjellybean

Makeup Artist: Tetiana Morozova @tatyna.morozova 

Makeup Assistant: Alina Bokhan @bokhan_makeup 

By Catherine Mills