I remember meeting you for the first time at the Cake Couture event and you said that you remember me when I was a little girl. I could not put my finger on it but it was funny how you said to me, "well everyone knows you, Ms. Fashionista!" I blushed. You told my mom that she was doing an amazing job. I blushed again. You rolled out with your suitcase, smiled and waved...RIP Ms. Banks.

It is always great to hear of a young woman doing something positive for herself and other and it is always sad when that is taken from her. She sent me her request for an interview on 1/23/12 and then answered the questions the same day!!! Truly ambitious!!! This was her last known interivew....

My name is Vanessa Banks and this is my first feature!

I am a fashion model and runway destroyer! I do print modeling, commercial modeling as well as an aspiring actress.

I decided that I wanted to be a model when I was asked by a promotional team to be a promo model but realized I had more to offer and show the world.

My first modeling gig was a ring card girl for Friday Night Fights on ESPN. It was amazing being on TV and getting cheers from the crowd.

I have been in more than 30 fashion shows (approximately).

The most memorable fashion shows/photoshoots was walking in New York Fashion Week! Not only did I accomplish a big goal of mind but to have people come to you and tell you how great you were, and celebrities tell you as well, was an awesome feeling. My most memorable photo shoot was Vocess Magazine; working in 30 degree weather, changing outside getting makeup done outside in the snow in an abandon building was something to never forget. We pulled the shoots off and you would have never thought that it was shot in the snow and cold.

My favorite designer are a few from famous designers to up and coming like Vera Wang, Alexander Mcqueen, Michael Thomas, Scripted Designs and Chacha N'kole! I love them all and they each give something different to the fashion world.

I hope that in the next five years, I will be in a big movie working with some of the biggest actors and actresses.

I think I was chosen as a YHC Fashionably Fierce Model because of my dedication, determination, drive and versatility in this business as well as my humbleness.

I like Young, Hip and Chic because it gives knowledge to young women, its positive, stylish and hip of course!

I want young women to know to don’t believe the sky is the limit when we have already walked on the moon. Go above and beyond for what you want in life and make it happen. Don’t take no for an answer but as a reason to keeping going

The next time you see me it will either be on the runway or in a magazine.  

5 Things that are in my model bag are:

• Portfolio
• Heels
• Makeup kit
• Undergarments
• Cell phone charger