Type in Samantha Gomez, plus model in Google, and results show numerous articles of her winning the Ford Models’ Supermodel of the World Philippines 2011 contest last May.
But what makes it more interesting is her age. While some ordinary kids are still sheltered, trying to make sense of their teen years, preoccupied playing neighborhood games, this towering 5’10” beauty has caught the national spotlight at the young age of 14.
Gomez is set to represent the Philippines in Ford Models’ Supermodel of the World contest this August, the same prestigious contest 17-year-old Danica Magpantay won, placing the Philippines on the modeling radar.
Don’t be appalled at her young age, as supermodels start young. Kate Moss took the modeling path when she was 14 years old, on a chance encounter with an agent at JFK airport. Gisele Bündchen was “discovered” while she was eating in a fast foodchain, and she was only 14 then. Adriana Lima was only 15 when she joined Ford’s Supermodel Brazil, and the following year landed second place in Supermodel of the World. Who knows, this humble Kapampangan might soon join the ranks of these star models.
As it turns out, Gomez may have been inspired by the reality TV show “America’s Next Top Model,” and has been a staunch fan since the show’s debut. “I was still young then, 4 to 6 years old. I was fascinated with the runway and the photos. Parang gusto ko maging ganun!” she recalls of her modeling dream, which her mom avidly supports.
“Lagi ko siyang kasama sa mga shoots, parati niya akong sinasamahan” Gomez says of her mom’s devotion.
Gomez is preparing herself for the modeling stint, training with model maker Joey Espino of CalCarrie’s International Models Philippines. Her beauty regimen is understated. It consists of going to the gym to tone her body and going on a no-carbs diet to achieve her desired waistline.
“I feel pressured, because last year the Philippines won the world title. Mas mataas ang expectation ngayon,” she says of proving herself to a lot of people. But she acts wiser beyond her years, brushing off detractors. “Hindi ako na-i-insecure sa iba, hindi ko pinapansin,” she says.
The harshest comment she has received so far, in a Facebook post, is “Kailangan ko daw magpa-nose job.” The negative remarks doesn’t seem to hurt her, as she carries on to achieve her goals in life––to become an international supermodel, fashion stylist, fashion designer (the kid is artistically inclined in drawing), as she finds strength in her family and God.
When you are young (as Gomez describes herself), the possibilities can be endless. We might very well start watching out for this talented teen.
