Meet Cecily Maurae in Central Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cecily Maurae.

Cecily, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
It’s difficult to pinpoint what exactly made me realize my passion because I feel as though I’ve always been chasing, refining, and re-discovering it. If I had to choose my “starting point”, it would be my rock bottom. For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with severe self-esteem issues, manic depression, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. As a teenager, my mental health was so bad that I attempted to take my own life, multiple times. I’m beyond grateful to say that I was lucky enough to be able to get help, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and gain an amazing support system. However, what impacted me the most during that part of my life was how almost everyone told me, “Well, you don’t look depressed!” or “But you’re so beautiful, what is there to be sad about?” As difficult as it is for me to share my story, I know it needs to be heard because when I was going through my darkest times, I hid it well and I knew there were others doing the same. Often times, the ones suffering the most are the ones with the biggest smiles and most loving hearts. I know what it’s like to wear that mask and it gives me the ability to help heal and guide others who are going through similar issues. So that’s what I decided to do, with a twist. I realized I could use modeling to change the narrative around mental health by showing the world that mental health issues don’t always present themselves in a certain way. Along the way, I fell in love with the craft; the creativity that goes into each shoot, the preparation for every runway show, and even dealing with the perception from others. The one thing I know is that modeling gives me a platform to talk about the many things I’m passionate about; mental health, women’s rights, social justice, the list goes on. I am where I am today because I’m passionate about showing the little girl inside me, along with the rest of the world, that we are multifaceted beings. It’s okay to be passionate about social justice AND love slaying the runway or have an amazing photo shoot and simultaneously have a bad mental health day.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Absolutely not. Aside from my struggles with my own mental health, doing something outside of your comfort zone is never easy! I struggled to find my niche, to meet the right people, and even now I’m sort of rebranding myself and dealing with the stress of building a new portfolio and breaking old habits. So, if there are any photographers or fellow models out there who would like to create magic with me, let me know!

Please tell us about what you do.
At the moment, I am a freelance model which really allows me to explore all aspects of this industry, and I love that! I’ve found that what I love MOST is creating concepts and bringing them to life in a photo shoot and walking in runway shows. Both get my creative juices flowing and give me an amazing adrenaline rush! When it comes to photo shoots, I believe what sets me apart from others is my desire to push boundaries, create new concepts, and truly hone my craft. I want to learn all that I can about what goes into creating a powerful image or an awe-inspiring runway show. My proudest moment thus far is being chosen as one of 9 Quality Influencers in partnership with Luxe & City and Phoenix Fashion Week. My hard work and drive is paying off and doors will only continue to open; I can’t wait to strut through them!

Is there anyone, in particular, you would like to recognize? Mentors, etc?
If I could list everyone that has ever said a positive word to me along the way, I would! Seriously, to be told I’ve inspired someone, or that my story resonates with anyone, is what keeps me going. Of course, I need to give a huge thank you to my family, my mom in particular, for believing in me and supporting me by showing up to all my shows, encouraging me, and loving me despite my many failures. My amazing girlfriend is also my best teammate and one of my loudest cheerleaders. She has been there for me to bounce all of my ideas off of, ease my anxious mind, and remind me to laugh and have fun through it all. Without them, every photographer, casting director, and fellow model who has ever given me the chance to prove my value, I would be nowhere.

Contact Info:

• Email: cecilymaurae@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cessiguess/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/modelmaurae/

Image Credit:
Marcus Allen
Brittany Grimes
Mea Costa
Jason Peterson

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