Samira Sabatinni

Who:

Samira Sabatinni -- @samirasabatinni -- 5'10" -- Haitian American from Miami.

Where:

Miami

Agencies:

Select Models Miami

Maggie Agency

Did you always want to be a model? Tell us about how you were discovered.

No, modeling wasn’t always my dream. In high school, I was fully committed to volleyball and had plans to pursue it in college. But everything changed when I was diagnosed with scoliosis and patella instabilities. The doctors told me that if I continued playing, I’d likely end up in a wheelchair. It was a heartbreaking moment because volleyball had been such a huge part of my identity. Transitioning out of sports was tough, as I know it is for many female athletes—it’s like losing a piece of yourself. When I started at Boston College, I was trying to find my footing again. People would often comment on my height (I’m 5'10") and suggest I try modeling. I gave it a shot, but I faced a lot of rejection at first. Agents pointed out my scoliosis, saying my shoulders weren’t even, or that I didn’t fit the sample size requirements. It was discouraging, but my mother agency in Boston, Maggie’s, took a chance on me. That opportunity changed everything. I discovered my love for modeling—working with incredible brands, stepping in front of the camera, and telling stories through imagery. It’s been a journey of turning rejection into redirection. From there, things began to grow. I moved on to bigger markets, first taking over Miami, and then I got signed in LA. That’s when I really started to find my footing as a model. Each step along the way, from small shoots to working with major brands, has been about proving to myself that I can turn obstacles into opportunities. Looking back, it’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful to Maggie’s for believing in me when others didn’t.

What is your favorite form of self care?

For me, self-care is about creating space for the things that recharge my mind, body, and soul. Fitness plays a big role in my life, but it looks different now compared to when I was an athlete. Whether it’s yoga, stretching, or just going for a walk, staying active helps me reconnect with myself.

Journaling is another way I care for my mental health. Putting my thoughts on paper gives me clarity and helps me stay grounded. And as an older sister, family time is also self-care for me. Being present with my siblings, cheering them on, and sharing moments together reminds me of my purpose and keeps me inspired.

What other passions do you have aside from modeling?

As an older sister, being a role model for my younger siblings is one of my greatest passions. I take that responsibility seriously, whether it’s helping them navigate life’s challenges or just being their biggest cheerleader. Watching them grow and succeed means the world to me, and it motivates me to keep pushing forward.

Professionally, I’m a Solution Consultant with a background in communications and finance. Outside of my corporate career, I’m deeply passionate about my entrepreneurial and creative projects. My podcast, Baddie Besties, is all about empowering women, creating safe spaces for conversations, and spreading joy. Co-hosting it with my bestie Alyssa has been such a fulfilling experience, and it’s a platform where we can impact others’ lives.

Then there’s Fetchfits, a fashion-tech startup I co-founded. Fetchfits combines my love for fashion and innovation, offering a platform that connects people to clothing for special events while also creating earning opportunities for college students through our ‘Fetcher’ program.

Above all, my faith is the foundation of everything I do. As a first-generation Haitian American, I’ve experienced the challenges of broken immigration systems and the strength it takes to overcome them. I want to use my platform to shed light on those issues while showing others that God has a plan for their lives. Whether it’s modeling, podcasting, or just being an older sister, my ultimate goal is to uplift others and make a meaningful impact.