Today we’d like to introduce you to Ta’Neilé Simmons.
Hi Ta’Neilé, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m originally from Louisville, Kentucky. I grew up as a dancer, and after school I would rush home to watch America’s Next Top Model. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue modeling.
Early on, I was scouted by an agency that required money upfront, which was devastating at the time. But it became a turning point. I realized that if I wanted to succeed, I would have to take ownership of my career, prepare myself intentionally, and seek opportunities independently.
I was raised by a hardworking single mother who showed me how to find beauty and grace even in challenging circumstances. We didn’t always have access to certain things, so I learned to invest in myself instead, my presentation, my discipline, and my work ethic. Wanting proper training, my mother enrolled me in a debutante program, which opened unexpected doors and eventually led to me becoming an instructor at Barbizon.
My modeling career took me both domestically and internationally. When COVID slowed the industry and a personal breakup challenged my confidence I made the decision to regroup strategically. I leaned into my professional skill set, earned a promotion in my full-time career in corporate merchandising, downsized my lifestyle, and committed fully to competing in Miss Georgia USA as Miss North Buckhead USA.
During that season of growth and soul-searching, I was inspired to launch Poised Model Finishing School. Since then, the business has been featured on a magazine cover, helped publish six models, placed three in fashion shows, and refined etiquette and presence training for clients navigating social, romantic, and professional environments. I specialize in helping individuals master feminine body language, confidence, and polished self-presentation and witnessing those transformations is what fuels me.
Most recently, I was honored to receive Model of the Year by ACE Honors 2025, which felt like a full-circle moment affirming not just my modeling journey, but the impact of the work I now do to empower others.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been learning how to get back up after rejection, broken trust, and false promises both from others and, at times, from myself. Those experiences were painful, but they shaped me in ways that made me stronger, more self-aware, and more relatable.
The fashion and modeling industry can be incredibly tough, and there were moments when I realized it wasn’t the glamorous world I once imagined. That awakening forced me to grow quickly. I had to develop discernment, boundaries, and resilience skills that aren’t always taught but are essential for longevity in this industry.
During those difficult seasons, my faith became my foundation. I learned how to quiet the noise, seek clarity, and make decisions that aligned with God rather than fear, ego, or external pressure. That inner work changed everything for me.
Now, those same obstacles allow me to teach what I call the “rebound” technique to my mentees how to recover with grace, confidence, and strategy after setbacks. I’m still growing every day as a model and as a business owner, but the challenges gave me depth, purpose, and the ability to lead others with authenticity.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an editorial-style curve model. At 5’8” and a size 6, I don’t fit the traditional editorial standard, which has led me to work primarily in hair, beauty, and lifestyle modeling. I’ve learned how to position myself strategically in those spaces while using editorial shoots as a creative outlet, to celebrate milestones, and collaborate creatively.
Because of my experience navigating the industry outside the traditional mold, I’m known for my professionalism, adaptability, and strong on-set presence. That perspective also inspired Poised Model Finishing School, where I teach confidence, etiquette, and industry readiness skills I actively apply and continue to refine in my own career.
What truly sets me apart is that my work is purpose-driven. I incorporate philanthropy into my brand by supporting breast cancer awareness and donating a portion of my business proceeds to veteran disability resources in honor of my late father ensuring that my presence in fashion is impactful both on and off the runway.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’m entering a season of expansion. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow as a businesswoman, fashion merchant, and fashion and beauty model while refining my voice within the industry both creatively and professionally. My goal is to collaborate with brands and platforms that value presence, polish, and purpose, and potentially return to the pageant stage, while continuing to elevate how curve models are represented in editorial and commercial spaces.
I’m also excited to further develop Poised Model Finishing School as a resource that prepares the next generation of talent with confidence, etiquette, and industry awareness. Above all, I want my career to leave a lasting legacy one that honors my family and my faith, reflects longevity and intention, and ultimately proves that success in fashion can be both beautiful and meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.poisedmodelfinishing.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taneilefaye/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taneile-simmons/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@taneilefaye
- Other: https://taneilefaye.com/
Image Credits
@stephonx @thebuckheadclub @poisedmodelfinishing @braxtonmerritt.photo @monetshaus @shai_directingsrvcs24
@iamthecourtneyj @resilientbody4
