One of the saddest myths being taught to young girls is that you can't weigh more than 90 pounds if you ever want anyone to love you. We see time and again, the most beautiful actresses in black America sent to Hollywood where they are promptly turned into stick figures who can hide behind any telephone pole. Not that there's anything wrong with being thin, but there's definitely something wrong with not being YOU. In fact, I've always argued that the most beautiful thing about black and brown women is that they don't look like anyone else. Rather than allowing that individual style to be suppressed, it should be celebrated.

Meet Christina Mendez, one of America's great emerging plus size superstars. She has graced the covers of Glamour magazine, The Source, Essence.com and others. She has also made national television appearances on 'The Rachel Ray Show,' Fox News, BET and quite a few other networks. Christina not only possesses the looks and talent necessary to succeed in the competitive world of modeling, she is also determined to use her platform for the greater good by taking stands for families affected by autism. I met Christina a few months ago when she appeared on my show. I was so impressed with her that after seeing her career experience such remarkable growth, I decided to make her the Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices:

What is your full name and what do you do?
My name is Christina Mendez and I am a plus size model/actress and a Spokesperson/Activist for Autism Awareness.

What are some of your greatest achievements as a model thus far?
I consider every assignment a great achievement because I came into this industry with very little expectations. I am a mother of a child with a disability and I am older and less experienced than most models so I wasn't expecting anything but a good time. However, I am the most proud when I am able to work side by side with my son, Damian. Last year, we did a photo shoot/interview for The Source Magazine about Autism Awareness. It was a truly amazing feeling to see Damian in the magazine as well as seeing his reaction to his first published photo shoot.


What are some of the most difficult lessons you've learned in the industry?
The most difficult lesson I've learned is that everyone is very competitive in this industry and unfortunately I've come across a few individuals who used unruly tactics to achieve their goals. It was always hard to see newly formed friendships disappear due to my success. However, my life experience has taught me to appreciate the journey, good or bad... I welcome the lessons.


What advice would you give those who'd like to become successful in the plus size modeling industry?
The Internet can be your friend. You can get information on reputable agencies in your city, height/size requirements, and even read stories from plus size models that are currently in the industry. In addition, I strongly recommend that you research casting information in your area and if possible do a few reputable non-paid assignments. If you work with a talented photographer or designer on a few non-paid assignments, most likely you'll be the first person thought of for a paid assignment next time! Like anything, practice makes perfect. Also, I cannot stress enough to anyone interested in modeling, NEVER pay to join an agency! If an agent believes you are marketable, they will bring you aboard with no hidden fees.

What projects are you working on right now?
Currently you can see me on the Ashley Stewart and Daphne Larger Sizes websites. My good friend, Qristyl Frazier of Qristyl Frazier Designs and I are working on an exciting new project and I am one of the celebrities partnering with Autism Speaks to promote the new fund raising initiative, Puzzle Builder.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with our AOL Black Voices audience?
I want to thank everyone for their continuous support and lovely emails. It feels great to do something that inspires and touches others to reach their maximum potential. God is good!

To find out more about Christina Mendez, you can visit ChristinaMendez.com.

Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and the author of the bookBlack American Money To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here. To suggest a subject for a Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight, please click here.