Don’t be fooled by the cliche of a Jamaican living in New York. The dark, yet dazzling beauty of Jeneil Williams is much more than a statistic, with many many accomplishments. She has broken barriers, made history and have set the trend for many to follow. It could easily be argued that she is top female supermodel in the Caribbean.  

Very much deserving of this title, Jeniel recently scored a global campaign as the new face for L’Oréal Cosmetics worldwide. This came after an unprecedented appearance in Vogue – German and Japanese editions in July. In that same month, she appeared in nine pages of the trendy Flare, only to be followed later in the year by the cover of Turkish Vogue. “This is all just a blessing!” she expressed. “It’s an amazing feeling to have achieved so much and I am enjoying every moment of it.” This, the travel junkie told teenAGE during a one on one at Caribbean Fashion Week (Night 2). 

Though being one of the faces of Pulse’s 35th anniversary celebrations, along with male top model, Oraine Barrett she was curiously absent from the catwalk at CFW.  “For me, it was never about being the center of attention. There are a lot of girls walking the catwalk that deserves the attention. Let’s just say that it’s a better feeling to sit among the crowd, cheer and watch them shine on the runway.” 

Even while being at the top of her game, Jeneil is not afraid to admit the struggles of a super model. So how often does she hear the word no? “I hear the word no all the time, but I never take no for an answer. You have to show the client why you are worthy and what you are going to do with that no and I always do. The industry has no time for quitters. You have to be determined and believe in what you are doing. After all, confidence is the most beautiful thing.”

 In the last 12 months, a portfolio of Jeneil’s works include runway jaunts for  Fendi, Vivienne Westwood and Louis Vuitton spring summer collections as well as fall winter collections for Zac Posen and Kenzo. Then there are the global ad campaigns for Jean Paul Gaultier, Jimmy Choo and Nike. Editorial appearances in Vogue Germany, Elle Magazine, the V Gentlewoman, YSL Beauty Pop Magazine and W Magazine. She also appeared in look books for Jimmy Choo and Macy’s. 

Jeneil’s presence is as big as her personality, with enough quips to keep you guessing, yet she still manages to surprise with her future ambitions and sweet demeanour.  

Being a woman of many facets, Jeneil currently has her eyes on acting. “I have done a lot in the fashion world and I want to try something new,” she says. “I am fortunate to be given the opportunity to try acting. I’ve been taking acting lessons and have done several auditions. My only regret is not starting the acting thing earlier (wide grin).” 

Jeneil, teenAGE salutes you! You’ve been been a standard for all industry professionals, and you have made your country proud.