When I told my parents I wanted to go to New York. Dad's response: "I'm surprised you didn't go a long time ago!"

My name is Destanie and I am from Dallas, TX. There I was a very serious basketball player in high school and quickly turned my ambitions onto modeling as a new venture and challenge. So of course, most of my interest are sports related but I also enjoy just being around my family; mom, dad, my brother, and his wife and kids. Being around them motivates me to always want to do better because of the encouragement that they are constantly giving me. I love them! I decided to become a model because it was something that I've always wanted to do but because of basketball, I was never able to committ myself to it like I really wanted to. I got discovered by Ebony Fashion Fair, the worlds largest traveling fashion show. From September to December, we did 83 shows and while on tour I decided to give New York a try. So I quit the tour and moved up here! My first test shoot was back in Dallas in December before I moved in January. I was very nervous but I think I did a good job of not showing it. Once I got here, I have done a few shows during Fashion Week and am really anticipating more success this coming season.

Practicing in the mirror

I enjoy just being able to work with a photographer, especially if we work really well together and then seeing the final product. Often times I am thinking, "I look absolutely silly!" But in actuallity, the photographers sees something that I may not see at the time so I know how important it is to listen and follow directions. To get ready for a shoot, I will flip through magazines to get some new ideas on poses and ask more about the conept and what we are trying to acheive. I also practice in the mirror...all the time lol. At home, at work, while getting my hair and make up done (the make up artist typically don't like it whem I do that lol)

The runway shows. Destanie, the fashionista?

I think Fashion Fair was a perfect start to a career. Even though I didn't finish the tour, I can say that I have done 83 shows and have worn some of the finest designers in the world such as Bill Blass, Jean Louis Sherrer (spelling), Luca Luca, Anthony Mark Hankins, Oscar De La Renta and many many more! There was one outfit that I hated. I looked like a walking brown and orange box but I got out there and act like it was my favorite just so that everyone else would love it despite the fact that because it was a fur and feather comination coat, it smell so bad!

When I first got here, I wouldn't say that I was a fashionista. The style I had was very Texas but not quite New York. Somehow I caught on but still carry that Texas swagger and I love it and a lot of other people do to. I like to be unconventional. Despite the fact that I love heels, I will rock a pair of sneakers in a heartbeat! But the thing is, the sneakers have to be flashy and my outfit very very simple.

The fans

I think its great to have fans across the world but as I mentioned earlier. I know that my biggest fans will always be back home. My brother's daughters call me Aunt Desi and instead of calling them Barbie Dolls they call them Desi dolls. The oldest girl models also so I know how important it is that I be an example for her as well.

Destanie by herself

Human Rights: I am very vocal when it comes to those issues especially when they concern me. I have noticed that everyone has an opinion (especially here in New York) and they all believe they are right and feel that you should feel the same way. I, as a result, became more firm in my opinions and although open to listening to other people, I stand firm in what I believe. I do this because at the end of the day, at the end of my career, I refuse to compromise who I am and the person that everyone falls in love with.

Dating X Love: I know what I like and am very forward and honest in relationships.

Sports: Don't talk to me, call me, (you can text during a commerical), don't do anything that is going to take my attention away from the game because if I miss something, it could cost us our friendship. Just kidding, but I really take sports seriously especially basketball. They are my escapes from reality.

Destanie´s way to atract someone´s attention: I make sure that I am seen and if that's not enough, I am very comfortable starting up a conversation with anyone.

Her way to have fun, the places she goes to enjoy the best of life: I usually go out with a promoter to the typical clubs like Tenjune, Greenhouse One Oak but not often. I enjoy just being able to chill outside and watch people.

The craziest (nastiest?) thing she´s ever done in a summer time season: I am way to practical to have done anything crazy.

An unforgettable moment: When I told my parents I wanted to go to New York. Dad's response: "I'm surprised you didn't go a long time ago!"
Main motto: Stick to it! Its tough out here and I know that by sticking to it success is on the way
Full name: Destanie Sykes

Stats: 34-25-35

Dress: 4
Bust: 34D
Waist: 25
Hips: 35
Shoe: 10
Hair: Drk Brown
Eyes: Brown
Info contact: MINT Management
http://www.mintmanagement.us/