JEANNIE FERGUSON-GOODLOW: PETITE PLUS MODEL, MENTOR, AND CREATIVE FORCE

Jeannie Ferguson-Goodlow is a trailblazing voice in fashion and performance, known for her dynamic work as a petite plus model, model coach, actress, and creative visionary. Alongside her sister, Tasha Monique Hill, she co-leads Confidence on the Runway, a platform designed to inspire aspiring models to embrace their individuality and walk boldly in both fashion and life.

Breaking Barriers as a Petite Plus Model

In an industry that often champions tall, statuesque figures, Jeannie carved out her space as a petite plus model defying traditional standards while redefining beauty on her own terms. Petite plus models remain underrepresented in mainstream fashion, but Jeannie has proven that height and size are not limitations when paired with confidence, presence, and style.

Her career has taken her to some of the most recognized stages in fashion. Jeannie has walked in New York Fashion Week (NYFW), Plus Night Out, Full Figured Fashion Week, and countless other runway events. Each appearance has been a declaration that the runway is not reserved for one body type; it belongs to anyone with the courage to own it. By proudly showcasing her curves and her stature, Jeannie has helped expand the definition of who gets to shine in fashion.

Confidence on the Runway: Empowering Young Girls

Together with her sister, Jeannie co-founded Confidence on the Runway, a coaching program dedicated to helping young girls discover their self-worth, develop confidence, and learn the art of presence both on and off the runway. Their work combines runway technique, posing, personal styling, and mindset training with a deeper emphasis on self-esteem and empowerment.

In recognition of their impactful work, Jeannie and Tasha have been approved as certified vendors with the Department of Education, allowing them to bring their program into schools and youth organizations. Beyond teaching participants how to walk a runway, Jeannie emphasizes the deeper lesson: confidence is the true accessory.

A Creative Force in Film and Media

Jeannie’s talents extend beyond the runway. Most recently, she starred in the independent film “Cooking In Yesterday’s Grease”, where her stage presence and charisma translated seamlessly to the big screen. She also shared the spotlight with her sister Tasha Monique Hill in a national Always commercial, a powerful project that showcased their bond while amplifying messages of authenticity and empowerment.

Inspiring the Next Generation

What sets Jeannie apart is her commitment to lifting others as she climbs. She understands firsthand the challenges of breaking into an industry that often overlooks women who don’t fit its narrow mold. Through her modeling, coaching, and creative work, she embodies the philosophy that beauty, strength, and talent exist in every size and height.

The Legacy She’s Building

Jeannie Ferguson-Goodlow is more than a model, she is a pioneer for petite plus representation in fashion, a mentor shaping the confidence of tomorrow’s talent, and a creative force using her gifts to make space for others. With Confidence on the Runway, she and her sister are building more than a coaching program; they are creating a movement that redefines who belongs in fashion.

For Jeannie, the runway isn’t just about walking in heels. It’s about walking in confidence, purpose, and unapologetic self-love.

QSM: If you weren’t in fashion or acting, what’s a creative passion you’d love to explore full-time?

Jeannie: If I weren’t in fashion or acting, I’d love to work with the youth, helping them discover their own creative passions and potential. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about inspiring young minds, guiding them through challenges, and watching their confidence and talents grow. Being able to shape the next generation creatively and emotionally is a path I’d find both exciting and meaningful.

QSM: Tell us the story about how you came to create your infamous tumblers and such?

Jeannie: My wife bought me a Critcut Bundle for Xmas. I hated this gift because I wanted a Gucci Bag. 6 months later, my daughter came to me demanding I make her a fancy tumbler to take on 1 of her Island excursions.  And the rest is history.

QSM: Well, thank you to your wife and daughter; because of them we get to carry around our own custom tumblers and stuff. You’re known for your “unfiltered opinions” and honesty in the industry. Do you think your delivery is too harsh for some people?

Jeannie: Sometimes it is, and if my delivery comes off too harsh, I may apologize for how I said it but never for what I said. I speak with honesty and with love. My intentions are not to hurt anyone. Honestly, folks should be more concerned if I don’t say anything to them at all.

QSM: When working with aspiring models, how do you handle it if someone doesn’t follow your guidance or takes your advice seriously? Do you ever feel like it’s a waste of your time?

Jeannie: It really angers me when aspiring models don’t follow my guidance because I see so much potential in them that they themselves don’t recognize. Honestly, it does feel like a waste of time at moments because I could be investing my energy in someone who truly wants to become a model and values the advice I give. It’s frustrating to put in effort when the passion and commitment aren’t there.

QSM: As a petite plus model, you’ve broken barriers in fashion. What advice would you give young girls who feel they don’t fit the traditional modeling mold?

Jeannie: My advice to young girls who feel they don’t fit the traditional modeling mold is simple: don’t give up and don’t get discouraged. Keep working hard on your craft and always strive to be well-rounded, never rely on just one skill. The industry can be tough, but remember, all you need is one yes to open the door to amazing opportunities. Stay confident and keep pushing forward!

QSM: Great advice! Beyond modeling, you’re a talented creative, customizing tumblers, bags, shoes, hats, and more. How did this creative side develop, and how does it influence your work in fashion and coaching?

Jeannie: Diving into creative projects like customizing tumblers, bags, and shoes has definitely taught me a great deal about patience. It’s a process that requires careful attention to detail and a commitment to doing things with perfection. This mindset naturally carries over into my work in fashion and coaching, pushing me to strive for excellence and thoughtful precision in everything I do.

QSM: You’ve had success in both modeling and acting, including starring in “Cooking In Yesterday’s Grease” and the national Always commercial. If you had to choose, which would you pursue full-time: modeling or acting? Why?

Jeannie: I would absolutely love to pursue acting full time because it offers me the incredible opportunity to showcase my acting skills and truly dive into the world of different characters. Acting allows me to express myself in so many unique and creative ways, bringing stories to life and connecting with audiences on a deeper level. The chance to constantly explore new roles and emotions is what excites me most about focusing on acting as a full-time career.

QSM: You’ve walked in major shows like NYFW, Plus Night Out, Full Figured Fashion Week and Rip The Runway on BET. How do you prepare for a runway show, and what do you feel sets you apart on the runway?

Jeannie: I prepare for runway shows by first researching the designer if I’m not already familiar with their work to help me connect with the vision and style I’ll be showcasing. I also make sure to have a self-care pamper session to relax. Practicing my walk and posing is key to feeling confident on the runway. What sets me apart is definitely my look; my short cropped cut with my signature parts. Plus, my walk; even though I’m 5'3", I strut like I’m 6'3" with a 72-inch ponytail that commands attention.

QSM: LOL at the 72 inch ponytail…. You co-founded Confidence on the Runway with your sister, Tasha Monique Hill, empowering young girls. What is the most rewarding part of mentoring these girls, and what lessons do you hope they carry beyond the runway?

Jeannie: The most rewarding part of mentoring these young ladies is witnessing them come out of their shells during our sessions and truly express themselves. As we instill positive affirmations into them, they demonstrate how deeply they've embraced these messages by confidently executing them on the runway. We hope they carry with them the powerful lesson that no matter what, they are beautiful, and they are enough.

QSM: I love that! In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about being a petite plus model or working in fashion as someone who doesn’t conform to traditional standards?

Jeannie: The biggest misconception about petite plus models is that we can’t do anything because we're short. My height is not a handicap. I can do the same things as taller models and sometimes even better. In fact, I have walked plenty of circles around many taller models, proving that ability and confidence matter far more than height.

QSM: I know that’s right! What’s a runway or photoshoot moment that still makes you laugh or stands out as unforgettable?

Jeannie: The most memorable runway moment for me has to be when I did Rip The Runway on BET. It was my very first time on television, and the energy was insane, everyone was looking everywhere, trying to find a camera to snag their 15 seconds of fame. During the timing session, I spotted the camera down in the pit. Honey, the second I walked out, we locked eyes, and he captured my entire strut from toe to head. That moment was absolutely EPIC and unforgettable!

QSM: If you could design a capsule collection for any brand or celebrity, who would it be, and what would your collection look like?

Jeannie: If I could design a capsule collection, it would be for Aisha Hinds. The entire collection would be centered around denim from elegant denim gowns to funky 80s and 90s style jackets and jeans. I would also include denim skirts with trains and unique trinkets, creating a bold yet sophisticated vibe. Aisha’s style and grace would perfectly represent the collection, making it feel like looking in the mirror; a true reflection of strength and individuality.

To learn more about THE Jeannie Ferguson-Goodlow, please follow her on IG @plusmodjeannief

Photo credits: Photographer | Philip Drew @photosbypdrew

Designer: En.V New York @envnewyork