As a teen, Jillian Mercado hoarded fashion magazines. She idolized designers and always looked stylish at school. Never did she imagine she’d one day grace magazine covers, tower over New York fashion central as a billboard in Times Square, or sit among VIPs at Fashion Week. Now she’s a barrier-breaking model for IMG and disability activist, showing the rest of us just what is possible when you stay true to your calling, no matter what others think or say.

Follow Jillian on IG @jillianmercado. If you loved this episode, listen to to-latina.simplecast.com/episodes/michelle-poler-inspires-fearlessly">Michelle Poler, to-latina.simplecast.com/episodes/how-annie-elainey-is-making-the-future-accessible">Annie Elainey and to-latina.simplecast.com/episodes/fashion-entrepreneur-lilliana-vazquez-build-something-for-yourself">Lilliana Vazquez. Show your love and become a Latina to Latina Patreon supporter!