Became the primary care giver for my 3 younger siblings at the age of 9 : Deeanne Compton

Where are you from, and how would you describe your life growing up?
I’m from Toronto “Jane & Finch” area, known as the concrete jungle. Life growing up was a challenge. I attended 30 different schools before I attended Grade 7. We were never in one spot longer than 3 months based on the fact were being evicted on a regular basis; my parents were abusive on many levels. I was in an out of foster care, in hostels or living on the street off and on as a child. It wasn’t until my parents officially split and I became the primary care giver for my 3 younger siblings at the age of 9 that I realized life is what you make it. My situation was beyond my control and I had to make the best of it, I knew there were other people that were going through much worse that we were. Growing up without dedicated parents wasn’t easy, but it taught me to fight for what I want out of life. I’m proud of who I’ve become despite some of my childhood struggles.
Although the start of my childhood wasn’t ideal, as I matured into a teen, I started to flip the negative influences into learnings. I made the decision to look at the positives and adjust my attitude accordingly. Eliminating all the toxic people I started to surround myself with smarter, happier upbeat people. I met my husband in Grade 7 and started dating in Grade 9, we were married 5 years later, and life changed in ways I would never have imagined. 37 years later I still look forward to every day with my amazing husband and I’m still growing up!

How did you find your way in front of a camera, modeling?
To be honest it wasn’t my intention to model. My close friend who I claimed as my daughter convinced me to give it a whirl! I would have never thought of doing this type of thing on my own.

What do you like best about being a model?
This was my first shoot. Based on my experience the best part of the shoot was the way the photographer and her team made me feel about myself.

Besides modeling what is the most important thing in your life? Do you have any unusual talents?
The most important thing in my life is my family. I’ve created the family I always longed for growing up. They are and will remain to be my priority. Unusual talents include: Being creative, I do photography, paint, draw, do floral arrangements. I participated in Judo for over 10 years with my boys “LOVED IT”.

We all need support in life. Where do you get your support? What or who inspires you?
My biggest supporter is my husband. I wouldn’t be where I am or doing what I do for a career if it wasn’t for my husband encouraging me to what makes me happy. I’m inspired by a variety of things and people. I look at every opportunity as a gift for learning and growth.

What do you think is the most challenging thing about modeling and what advice would you give to new models?

I think the modeling world is very competitive and can be very intimidating. Social media puts additional pressure on aspiring models to look a certain way. My advice is to “be you”. Everyone is uniquely beautiful. Size, shape, features… we all have something that stands out. Do what makes you happy, don’t let anyone crush your dreams no matter what they may be.

What is your favorite way to relax? What do you do for fun?
I love to relax at home curled up with my 3 dogs & Hubby. I try to make everything I do fun! Riding my Harley! Knees in the breeze, exploring new places I love a good adventure!

What would you consider your strongest attribute? What do people compliment you most on?
I would have to say my confidence is my strongest attribute. Most people tell me I have the prettiest eyes or compliment me on my skin. If I’m asked my age they are generally shocked, which I assume is a good thing.

Anything about your heritage, ethnicity, or nationality that you feel people would like to know?
I’m quite a mix – Proud Canadian mix-breed. Fathers side is Greek and French (Parisian), mom’s side Mattie, Norwegian, Scottish I’m told but we aren’t entirely sure of our background on my mom’s side.

Please share something about yourself that may surprise others. What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
Rode my Harley through a Town in AZ filled with wild donkeys! Oatman was quite an adventure, oh and snorkeling with Barracudas in Cozumel

What are your dreams and goals and ambitions?
I’m in the process of writing a book based on my life experiences. My goal is to become a motivational speaker, inspire other ladies who may have had similar challenges in life.

If you were in a magical machine that could transport you to any place and time imaginable, where would you love to be? Why?
Greece. I’ve always wanted to see where my grandfather was from. I love the sun, I’ve never been a winter person living in a place that’s sunny, warm and by the ocean has always been appealing to me. I’d like to visit, learn more about the history and people.

Please share a guilty pleasure with us. Your naughtiest fantasy?
Man, guilty pleasures usually involve chocolate!

What’s one thing about yourself that everyone should know?
What you see is what you get. No hidden agendas, no fake façade. I am genuine, open and honest. No tolerance for drama or negativity.

Do you have any favorite quotes that you would like to share?
Your smile is your logo… your personality is your business card… how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark…

What does being published in this Modelz View magazine mean to you?
I did this shoot for me, it was something I wanted to try, push myself beyond my comfort zone. I honestly wasn’t expecting to be published, I’m still in shock. At 53 I would never have expected to be in a magazine as a model. It’s very humbling, I’m grateful I was able to experience such an honor.

Photography : Deanna Brown Art & Photography