Not many people leave a steady, successful career to chase a dream, but for Jenna Andrea, it was the only option. Born on July 20, 1997, in San Diego, California, Jenna wasn’t always walking the runways of Los Angeles, Milan, or New York. In fact, just a few years ago, she was deep in the corporate world, working in healthcare at a director-level position. Her journey from a stable, professional life to the unpredictable world of international fashion wasn’t easy, but it was authentic—and it’s that authenticity that sets her apart.
“I loved what I did in healthcare,” Jenna shares. “But something always felt missing. I’d wake up every morning and think, ‘Is this really it for me?’ I think a lot of people feel like that, but they’re scared to admit it. I finally decided I didn’t want to live like that anymore.”
That decision would change everything.
From Corporate Meetings to Couture
Jenna’s modeling career didn’t happen overnight. In late 2022, she decided to try something new and booked a photoshoot with a DC-based agency. It wasn’t planned or part of some grand strategy—it was simply a chance to do something different. But what started as an experiment quickly turned into something more.
“After that first shoot, something clicked,” she recalls. “For the first time in years, I felt like I was doing something that excited me.”
Her instincts were right. By early 2023, Jenna was walking in New York Fashion Week, an achievement that many aspiring models spend years working toward. From there, her career skyrocketed. She’s since walked in Los Angeles, London, and Milan Fashion Weeks, modeling for top designers like Andre Soriano and appearing in over 10 fashion publications, including Fashion Republic and Fashion X.
“It’s surreal,” she says with a laugh. “I went from never having walked a runway to doing shows at Milan Fashion Week in less than two years. Sometimes I have to stop and remind myself how far I’ve come.”
The Right People at the Right Time
Jenna attributes much of her success to the people who believed in her when she was just starting out. One of those people is Anthony Knight, a successful runway model who took her under his wing early in her career. Through Knight, Jenna met America’s Next Top Model finalist Victoria Henley, who invited her to walk for Henley’s Magnifique platform at NYFW.
“I owe so much to them,” Jenna says. “Anthony taught me how to navigate the industry, and Victoria gave me opportunities I never thought I’d have. I wouldn’t be where I am without their support.”
She’s also built a strong network in New York, where she moved in 2023. One of her most valuable connections is Katerina Kautska, owner of Katwalk Talent, who signed Jenna in 2024. “Katerina saw potential in me when I was still figuring everything out,” Jenna says. “That kind of faith means a lot.”
A Style That’s All Her Own
What makes Jenna stand out isn’t just her striking blue eyes or her strong runway walk—it’s her ability to bring something real to every show she walks. Her background in healthcare and her years in the corporate world have given her a unique perspective that sets her apart in the modeling industry.
“I’m not your typical model,” she says candidly. “I didn’t grow up dreaming about this. I didn’t spend years training or building a portfolio. I came into this world as an outsider, and I think that’s actually been my strength. I approach modeling differently because I don’t know any other way.”
Her distinctive blend of professionalism and creativity has earned her collaborations with major brands like Toxik Fashion by Jerra Whittaker, a designer with connections to the legendary Gianni Versace. “Being part of something with that kind of legacy is incredible,” Jenna says. “It’s the kind of opportunity I never imagined I’d have.”
Dreaming Bigger
As Jenna’s modeling career continues to grow, she’s already thinking about what comes next. In February and March 2025, she’ll be walking in London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Weeks—her first time in Paris, a milestone she’s especially excited about.
But runway shows are just the beginning. Jenna also has her sights set on acting. “I’ve always loved storytelling,” she explains. “Whether it’s through fashion or film, I think there’s something really powerful about being able to connect with people emotionally. Acting feels like a natural next step.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
What matters most to Jenna, though, is using her platform to inspire others. “If there’s one thing I want people to take from my story, it’s that it’s never too late to change your life,” she says. “I’m proof that you can start over, no matter where you are or how impossible it feels.”
Jenna’s story resonates because it’s not just about success—it’s about taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and finding the courage to follow your heart. “I never imagined I’d be here,” she says. “But once I allowed myself to dream, everything started to fall into place.”
With her natural talent, work ethic, and genuine passion for what she does, Jenna Andrea is more than just a rising star—she’s a reminder that reinvention is always possible. As she prepares to take on Paris Fashion Week and beyond, one thing is certain: Jenna’s journey is just beginning, and the world is watching.
Connect with her https://www.instagram.com/missjennagirl?igsh=Z3RvbnVvZmZkY2xn
