Embracing Joy and Freedom: A Journey of Self-Discovery, Empowerment, and Self-Care
My vision is to create a supportive community of women who like me, feel inspired to embrace their true selves and pursue their dreams, no matter how crazy they are (their dreams that is!)
Ciao! I’m Giovanna!
Welcome to Leaning into Aphrodite, inspired by my journey of self-acceptance, leaning forward, and discovering the beauty within. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and passion, embodies self-acceptance and the power of embracing one’s true essence. Aphrodite represents more than just external beauty; she embodies inner strength and the courage to be vulnerable. My mission is to inspire, empower, and share my personal journey of stepping out of my comfort zone.
In 2023, I decided to start doing things that frightened me. I had been playing it safe for too long. I plunged into a teenage dream of modeling because I didn’t want to have regrets when I grew older. Charged with unwavering and newfound confidence and fearlessness, I decided to show the world (and myself!) that it’s #nevertoolate to go after your dreams!
How it Started
One morning in May of 2023, I was on my way to NYC to attend Coco Rocha Model Camp. I had submitted my photos on a whim and was accepted. As I drove there from Boston, I thought to myself, ‘Giovanna what are you doing? you’ll be in a room full of 16-year-olds who all look like Gisele!’ Then, I was reminded of what one of my dearest friends (a former dancer) told me, ‘…be with the people who are doing what you love, those are your people.’ And just like that, I knew I had found my tribe and I immediately felt at ease. I met my sisters and brothers, all doing it for themselves! And I met my idol, the very talented supermodel, Coco Rocha, better known as the Queen of Pose! My feelings of self doubt quickly melted away and my spirit child took over and reveled in each and every moment!
Model camp was definitely one of the scariest things I had ever done in my life, and by far, one of the best experiences!
(Left) Times Square NYC; (right) with the queen of pose, Coco Rocha!
How it’s Going
With a newfound confidence, I took myself to NY and attended my first big casting and walked for New York Fashion Week in September of 2023. My legs were shaking and my fingers cramped up before I got on the runway. When the show manager pulled back the curtain and shouted, “go!” I immediately experienced an exhilarating rush. With every step I reminded myself how awesome it was that I was walking the cat walk! My 16-year-old self would have been immensely proud, especially since I was wearing a dress with an ice cream cone on it! (Richerette By Richie Rich show)
Embrace your uniqueness; it’s the one thing no one else can replicate, and it’s what makes you truly unforgettable.
Since then, I’ve walked for both emerging and established fashion designers in Boston and Providence. (Pictured: designs by Peach Carr (left) and Urban Pigeons (right) Shoes: Stewart Weitzman platforms in patent leather). I’m also elated to share that I am now represented by two agencies, IKONIC Models & Talent and New England Models Group (NEMG).
The most important thing is to just start!
In an industry often driven by competition, I believe that collaboration, rather than competition, is the key to success.
Spring Colors show, Providence, RI.July 2023 (Designer: gown by Leonel Lirio (right) and designer Conrad Lamour couture (left)). Below Malva Janaby designs, spring show.
Models can be of any age, race, gender, walk many different paths, and there is no expiration date on being an artistic muse in the fashion industry!
Right: Vintage Valentino gown with cape (photographed at Valentino flagship boutique in Rome, Italy)
My blogs
Finding the Divine Within: Trusting My Gut, Leaping Fearlessly, and Choosing Myself
Self-empowerment is impossible without leaning into vulnerability. But make no mistake—there is power in vulnerability. Beneath its surface lies a force, fierce and unrelenting, like the simmering tension before a volcanic eruption. There is a moment in every journey of self-discovery when the world feels heavy with expectations. The voices sometimes of society, sometimes of…
Breaking Barriers, Promoting Unity, and Mental Health Awareness in the Modeling Industry: My Journey with Nikki Gal
As a model who embarked on this exciting journey later in life, it was an absolute thrill to be contacted by Nikki Gal, a renowned model who has graced international magazines for over a decade, a digital artist, a public speaker, as well as a mental health advocate. Nikki is a true inspiration. Not only…
No Explanation Needed.
One of the biggest challenges in my journey toward authenticity has been navigating my own intellect. When my mind spirals into self-doubt and self-criticism, it can feel like an unstoppable force, holding me back with negative self-talk and relentless overanalysis. This internal struggle has often kept me from fully trusting and embracing myself. Last year,…
You are YOU.
During my high school years, my parents enrolled me in a boarding school in Rome, Italy to encourage me to learn how to be self-sufficient. It was a transformative experience, and the friendships I forged there are still precious to me. My best friend, who was my roommate when I was 11, has been a…
When you Fall Get Back Up!
Embracing Strength and Balance: A Journey of Mind and Body At the end of May, on the eve of my 49th birthday, I found myself facing an unexpected challenge. While at the gym, I injured my back attempting a 110-pound trap bar deadlift. My twenty-year-old spirit, still very much alive within my 49-year-old body, believed…
Finding Renewed Strength: My Journey to Becoming a Model at 48
At 48, I had long harbored a dream, a dream that had lingered in the recesses of my mind since my teens. This dream was to become a model and a passionate advocate for women’s wellness. Life, however, had a way of sidetracking me, and as the years went by, I had almost forgotten that…
The Journey of a Thousand Miles
Between the ages of 40-45, I put my body through a lot. My husband and I embarked on a journey to parenthood through IVF. After multiple attempts, anguish, and disappointment, we decided it wasn’t in the cards, so we created a family by adopting two dogs. But by then my body had gone through the…
Vulnerability, my Path to Authenticity
In a world that often celebrates strength and invulnerability, embracing our vulnerabilities can feel like an act of courage. Yet, as we navigate the journey of self-discovery and growth, it becomes clear that vulnerability is not a weakness but a powerful catalyst for authenticity and connection. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher on vulnerability and shame,…
My journey is about leaning into vulnerability, about stripping away the layers of fear and doubt, and about finding the courage to be my true self. It is about embracing the beauty of imperfection and finding strength in the face of adversity. By leaning into Aphrodite, I am leaning into myself, acknowledging my own beauty, strength, and vulnerability.
Giovanna
My favorite things!
Fashion & Beauty
Fashion is a powerful mirror of society, reflecting the changes, challenges, and triumphs of each era. From the ancient civilizations to the digital age, fashion has evolved in response to technological advancements, cultural shifts, and the ever-changing ideals of beauty and identity. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: fashion will continue to evolve, adapt, and inspire, just as it has for centuries.
Lifestyle
It all has to do with style and style, in the words of Valentino “…is about personality. It’s not about being in fashion; it’s about being yourself.” This quote reflects his belief that true style comes from individual expression and confidence, rather than merely following the latest trends. Valentino’s approach to fashion has always highlighted elegance, sophistication, and the importance of dressing in a way that reflects one’s unique personality.
Some recent work
Leaning into Aphrodite 
Giovanna you are truly inspirational – your grace, beauty, and intelligence are captivating + empowering. I am fortunate to have crossed paths with you.
You possess a combination of elegance and strength that leaves a lasting impression and an unparalleled ability to influence others. Your presence radiates an aura of confidence and poise that is so admirable. Your achievements are a testament to your unrelenting determination and your commitment to making a positive impact on society!
-Bev
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