PHOTOGRAPHY Oholiyab Tegenu
CREATIVE DIRECTION George Promise
WORDS Rylee Reid
PRODUCTION Brad Bomandeke
STYLING Arie Evans
LOCATION Space NIA
In an industry often defined by strict standards and expectations, new voices continue to emerge that challenge the traditional mold. For this Ottawa-based model, the journey into fashion began not with a grand plan, but with a love for being in front of the camera and a willingness to take a chance on herself.
Now stepping onto larger stages including an upcoming appearance at New York Fashion Week, she represents a new generation of models who are reshaping what representation in fashion looks like. Through creativity, persistence, and an unwavering belief in her own path, she is carving out space for others who may feel they don’t fit the industry’s traditional standards.
In this edition of Voices, Rylee shares how her modeling career began, the excitement leading up to New York Fashion Week, and the message she hopes others will take from her journey.
What first inspired you to pursue modeling, and how did that journey begin for you in Ottawa?
I was always in front of the camera growing up and quickly fell in love with it. People often told me I should try modeling, but I never really believed I could do it. After I competed in my first pageant, I decided to book my first photoshoot, and that experience confirmed that modeling was something I truly wanted to pursue. When I moved to Ottawa, I decided to take modeling more seriously. That’s when I started looking for representation and connecting with people in the industry.
Can you walk us through the early days of your career — your first shoot or runway experience?
My first runway show was the Sudbury Bridal Show in 2024. I was incredibly nervous and mainly focused on not falling, but the moment I stepped onto the runway, everything clicked. In that moment, I realized this was exactly what I wanted to do.
How would you describe your modeling identity? What do you want to represent in the industry?
I would describe my identity in the industry as a mix of high fashion, editorial, and commercial modeling. I want to represent models like me who don’t fit the typical height standards and show that success is still possible. I hope to inspire others who may feel they don’t meet traditional industry expectations.
What personal values or experiences do you bring into your work in fashion?
I bring creativity and dedication to every project I work on. I love contributing ideas and collaborating with creative teams. I’ve also learned a lot from amazing people in the industry—tips, techniques, and insights that I now bring into every project to keep my work authentic and meaningful.
You walked at New York Fashion Week. What was the experience like leading up to it?
The lead-up to New York Fashion Week was incredibly exciting. All the long hours of preparation, hard work, and networking finally came together, and seeing everything come to life on the runway was an amazing feeling.
Do you approach international runway work differently than local shows in Ottawa?
I approach international shows slightly differently, though I always give my all and put my best foot forward. The atmosphere is completely different—the preparation, the venues, and the energy are all on another level. Ottawa’s fashion scene is smaller, so while the work ethic remains the same, the scale and intensity of international shows really stand out.
How did the idea of joining the Maxim Cover Girl competition come about, and what has the experience been like so far?
I first saw the Maxim Cover Girl competition last year, but I wasn’t eligible to register at the time. When I found out they were accepting Canadian applicants this year, I knew I had to go for it. The experience has been amazing so far. I’ve felt so much support, and I’m really grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.
What part of fashion do you love the most — the clothes, the art direction, or the confidence it builds?
What I love most about fashion is the lifestyle that comes with it. I enjoy working with other creatives and helping bring their visions to life. Being part of that process and seeing what these beautiful collections represent is something I truly appreciate.
What I love most about fashion is the lifestyle that comes with it.
Who are your biggest fashion or creative inspirations right now?
Two of my biggest inspirations right now are Amelia Gray and Yasmin Wijnaldum. They are both incredibly talented at what they do, and watching their work inspires me and pushes me to keep improving every day.
Do you have a dream designer or brand you’d love to work with?
I would love to work with Miu Miu and Dsquared2. I admire everything about both of these brands and their designers, and collaborating with them would be a dream.
How do social media platforms shape your relationship with your audience and your own identity?
Social media allows me to share my work and connect with amazing creatives in the industry. I try to let my work speak for itself and use these platforms to showcase who I am and the projects I’ve been part of.
How do you stay grounded and authentic amid feedback, expectations, and comparisons online?
I stay grounded by remembering why I started modeling and what I love about it. Feedback and comparisons are part of the industry, but I focus on my personal growth, celebrate my achievements, and surround myself with supportive people. Authenticity comes from staying true to my style and the unique perspective I bring to each project.
What’s one message you want Voices readers to take away from your story?
One message I want readers to take away from my story is that even if the odds aren’t in your favour, you should still put yourself out there and make it happen. Confidence and persistence can take you much further than you think.
As she prepares to step onto one of fashion’s biggest stages at New York Fashion Week, this Ottawa-based model continues to build momentum while staying grounded in the passion that first inspired her journey. Her story is a reminder that the fashion industry is evolving—and that determination, authenticity, and confidence can open doors that once seemed out of reach.
For aspiring creatives watching from the sidelines, her message is simple: sometimes the most powerful step you can take is simply putting yourself out there and believing that you belong.
