From Catwalks to Classrooms
The Inspiring Journey of a Passionate
Model and Scholar
Sasha Bush
The Ashland Beacon
Jasmine Delaney Webb, a local teenager with impressive achievements in both academics and modeling, has been recognized as a semifinalist in the esteemed Jovani It Girl Contest, Cycle 16. This prestigious competition, which began in 2015, aims to empower young women and give them opportunities to represent a world-renowned brand.
The Jovani It Girl program has grown significantly, investing nearly half a million dollars into the competition over the past four years. This includes more than $60,000 in scholarships through the Jacob Maslavi Scholarship Fund, more than $200,000 in Jovani wardrobe, and many unforgettable experiences for the contestants. The impact of the program extends beyond the financial support, fostering confidence and connections that last a lifetime.
Abraham Maslavi, co-owner of Jovani, envisioned the competition as a platform to elevate and support women. Each cycle begins with an interview process in New York, Los Angeles, and various Jovani retailers to find candidates who best embody the brand’s inclusive image. Semifinalists, like Webb, are then flown to Atlanta, Georgia, to model Jovani’s latest collections at America’s Mart, with all expenses covered, including makeup and hairstyling by The Makeup Doll team.
When the competition ends, one finalist is crowned the new Jovani It Girl, while others receive the title of Jovani Ambassadors, along with scholarships and Jovani gowns. Many alumni of the program go on to achieve remarkable success, including Kaliegh Garris, who became Miss Teen USA, and Taylor Lindsay Clark, a former dancer for the Los Angeles Clippers featured on NBC’s Deal or No Deal.
Jasmine Webb, a rising junior at Transylvania University in Lexington, is balancing her academic pursuits with her modeling career. Majoring in biology with a psychology minor and pursuing a premed path, Webb is also an active member of the university’s swim team. She has modeled for small businesses, participated in the prestigious New York Fashion Week for two years, and has been featured in various modeling magazines.
Webb’s modeling journey began with encouragement from Dianne Ferguson of Wilma’s Dress Shop. “I was very excited and surprised,” Webb said. “Dianne’s persistence in encouraging me to apply was a key factor in my decision to enter.”
Outside of modeling, Webb is a competitive swimmer who has held numerous YMCA records and won several gold medals at Junior Olympics. Webb recalled, “I have been very competitive in swim throughout my life, I started at Ashland YMCA at the age of eight. I currently hold many girl’s YMCA records and have been blessed to compete at many levels such as Junior Olympics where I have a won gold medal and several others, YMCA zones, and represented Kentucky at All-Stars. I won Kentucky YMCA state high point champion for six years and hold meet records.” Webb emphasized that modeling is a hobby she enjoys but remains deeply committed to her academic and athletic pursuits.
To prepare for her modeling commitments, she practices walking in five-inch heels to handle the demanding schedules of runway and showroom work.
As a devout Christian, Webb finds inspiration from her favorite Bible verse … Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Webb explained, “This verse is important to me as I started my academic career at Rose Hill Christian and remained there until eighth grade. I was taught a very strong religious background which I will always be thankful for.”
Webb’s advice to others who are following the path of making their dreams come true is to, “always keep working toward your dreams and never give up; when one door closes, God opens another, often a better door.” Webb believes that to be successful in life that one must have a strong sense of perseverance and dedication.
Webb’s mother, Christina Jordan Webb, praised her daughter’s dedication and accomplishments. “Jasmine gives 110% to everything she does, from academics to modeling to volunteer work,” Christina said. Jasmine has also been active in community service, including starting the Ashland/Grayson COVID-19 Match program, organizing women’s self-defense classes, and raising significant funds for various causes.
Webb recently returned home from the Jovani It Girl event held in Atlanta Georgia and will soon travel to Athens, Greece, for a three-week shadowing internship at a hospital. Being selected from thousands of applicants for this international competition highlights the extraordinary nature of her achievements and the promising of a bright future ahead.
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