Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Model Gilda Joelle

A strong believer in the value of education, Gilda Joelle got her master’s degree in occupational therapy at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Soon after, she moved to Miami, where she was discovered by her first modeling agency, and the stars began to align. Since then, she’s been featured in notable campaigns including Lily Pulitzer, Dover Saddlery, Fruit of the Loom, and Dooney and Bourke. Pop Culturalist caught up with Gilda to chat about her exciting transition into fashion.

PC: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in fashion?
Gilda: My mom modeled in her early 20s, so I’ve known as long as I can remember that I wanted to pursue modeling one day.

PC: What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned thus far?
Gilda: Honestly, the biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is to not believe everything you are told. When I first started, I think some people saw my eagerness as a weakness. I was quick to believe what often ended up being false promises. Finding someone you can trust in the modeling world is so important!

PC: Tell us about your pivot into modeling? How did you know this was the right time?
Gilda: It was important to me to complete my master’s degree, so once I graduated in 2015, I packed up and moved to Miami, not knowing a single person. I was discovered by my first agency, and that was the beginning of my dreams being fulfilled.

PC: What are some of your career aspirations?
Gilda: Sports Illustrated, Victoria’s Secret Pink, and a major beauty/hair campaign!

PC: What’s the biggest misconception about the industry?
Gilda: Not all modeling jobs are glamorous like people seem to think! Not having a proper area to change clothes, cramming my feet into shoes 2+ sizes too small, standing for hours at a time in uncomfortable shoes, and getting paid as long as three months after the job has been completed (or not paid at all, which has happened a time or two) are some things I’ve experienced.

PC: What advice would you give to other aspiring models?
Gilda: Many people will claim to hold the keys to your success, but it’s important that you don’t believe everything you are told. You must do your research and sign with a reputable agency. There are ebbs and flows in the modeling world—don’t lose hope or patience if things aren’t happening in your timeline!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Gilda: Sex and the City

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Gilda: Wolf of Wall Street

PC: Favorite book?
Gilda: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Gilda: Earth, Wind, & Fire

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Gilda: Breaking Bad

PC: Who would play you in the story of your life?
Gilda: Cameron Diaz

To keep up with Gilda, follow her on Instagram.