Leamington model follows her dreams

By Deanna Bertrand

Shanel Ricci, 24, of Leamington, recently competed in the Swimsuit USA International World Finals held at the Iberostar Paraiso Mayo resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

This was the second time Ricci has advanced to the finals for Swimsuit USA. She placed 18th out of 60 women in 2018 in her first international competition. She now awaits this year’s final rankings for the gown/ swimsuit portion of the competition but is already seeing the benefits of being a contestant. “The Swimsuit USA

International finals once again was an amazing opportunity for me to enhance my modelling career, network with other industry professionals,” she said in an interview following the competition held Oct. 18 through Oct. 23. “I have created many friendships and memories.”

Ricci started modelling at age 18 with the Miss Universe Canada Pageant, placing in the top 10.

She says it is more than just modelling — it really is a lifestyle commitment.

“Beyond the sky-high heels and smiles are months of intense preparation,” she says.

“You learn dedication, discipline and inner strength that you can apply to almost any part of your life. Most important is having a solid fitness base,” she said. “Everyone who knows me, knows fitness is my passion. I always push myself to be the best version of myself — whether I’m competing or not.”

As a world finalist she received bonus packages which included professional photoshoots, being featured in the Official Swimsuit USA online calendar, an opportunity to join CHAARMZ Lifestyle Magazine, and was chosen to be one of the models for the Chynna Dolls Swimwear brand, she said.

Ricci, who also works in the health care field, says she enjoys getting to express her creativity through modelling and plans to continue working as a model, traveling and enjoying all the opportunities that come her way.

“It is such an amazing and rewarding feeling to finally see the extremely hard work and many hours I have put in over the years to come to light and pay off,” she says.

“I am thankful to all my sponsors, family and friends who have supported me throughout my journey.”

Shanel Ricci in a promotional photo courtesy of Swimsuit USA International.