THIS IS THE MONTH IN WHICH WE PAUSE TO GIVE THANKS. OUR MODEL OF THE MONTH FOR NOVEMBER, ARYANNA GRAF-JONES. ARYANNA, A FINALIST FOR MS. DMV 2024 IS A VERY SPECIAL LADY

I said of her before, "There are those whose pretentions far exceed their abilities - you well know who you are - and those whose modesty masks their reach." Aryanna Graf-Jones has cerebral palsy, but she has slayed the runway as well as any of our models.

Consider her Statement - in her own words - submitted for the Ms. DMV 2024 Selection Process, "I’ve always been intrigued by fashion and modeling, but I didn’t give it much thought because of my cerebral palsy. I cringed at my photos and videos because I was always embarrassed how my disability looked in them. It wasn’t until the year 2019 that I started to fall in love with the idea of modeling. I volunteered to be a model for my makeup artist friend, and she quickly encouraged me to pursue fashion and modeling. Although I was unsure about my disability, I continued to model for local photographers and models. Encouragement propelled my desire to continue my interest in fashion, but I still questioned my capability. Models were always beautifully posed and walked perfectly on the runway, yet all my pictures showed my imperfect hand and I always walked with a limp. I rarely saw models with cerebral palsy or other disabilities growing up, so I questioned if I could be one. But that’s exactly why I loved modeling; modeling showed the beauty of diversity. My disability taught me that imperfections are beautiful, and I yearned to inspire others to have the same mindset. I now use modeling as a platform to inspire and advocate for people with neurodivergence and disability. I am motivated by the opportunity to increase understanding and acceptance in both the fashion industry and the typical world."

I wrote back to Aryanna - in my own words. "I am delighted that you are interested in Ms. DMV 2024, Aryanna. Thank you so, so much. I must consult with others, but I suspect you will be among our Finalists. I should tell you, Aryanna, something that few know about me. My son, Jevan Nkosi, had cerebral palsy, from birth, although it took a while for the doctors to diagnose his health challenge. We were told that he would not live more than a year. He brought such joy and laughter to all who encountered him, especially with his ready smile (like you) and easy, contagious cachinnation, even though he was very limited in what he could do. He was with us for twenty-one (21) years before he passed. Like you too, he was beautiful, a very handsome young man. Stay Strong, Aryanna!"

We have yet to make a final selection, but Aryanna was received with thunderous applause during our Finals Night. I suspect the imprint and impact of Aryanna ....... and Jevan Nkosi, (Nkosi means "Ruler") Barnes, will be permanently etched in our hearts.