In the competitive scene of Los Angeles beauty and fashion, where dreams often fade faster than camera flashes, Leyi Zhou is crafting a narrative all her own. At 26, this model and influencer isn’t just turning heads on runways – she’s challenging stereotypes with every step.
“I can never be labeled,” Leyi asserts, her voice carrying the quiet confidence of someone who’s faced down more than her fair share of challenges. And challenges, it seems, have been a constant companion since she first set foot on American soil in 2014.
Arriving in the San Francisco Bay Area at 16, Leyi’s American dream quickly collided with harsh reality. Too old for public school, she found herself navigating the unfamiliar waters of a private high school. “It was far from perfect,” she recalls, her tone hinting at understatement. Cultural shock, language barriers, and the specter of potential racism loomed large in an environment Leyi describes as “not the most diverse.”
For many, such obstacles might have spelled defeat. For Leyi, they became fuel for an unquenchable determination. When high school proved too daunting, she made the bold choice to drop out, pivoting to community college in the winter of 2015. “I had to prove to everyone – and myself – that I deserved success,” she explains.
Fate, it seems, had plans for Leyi. A chance encounter with a hair salon owner in downtown San Francisco in 2016 planted the seed of a modeling career. Though she didn’t take the immediate offer, the idea took root. “It felt like a chance to show my true value,” Leyi muses.
With characteristic decisiveness, Leyi set her sights on Los Angeles, the entertainment capital. Cal Poly Pomona became her launchpad, bringing her closer to the glittering world of fashion while allowing her to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. Talk about defying expectations.
Leyi’s entry into modeling wasn’t immediate or easy. August 2021 saw her taking her first tentative steps, accepting any job that came her way. “Background acting, unpaid photoshoots – you name it, I did it,” she laughs, the memory of those early days still fresh.
Persistence paid off. June 2022 brought Leyi’s first paid modeling gig, quickly followed by an invitation to join the Stack Influence Platform for influencer campaigns. Since then, she’s become a rising star, gracing runways, featuring in print ads, and building a significant social media presence.
“I take all kinds of jobs,” Leyi explains, “except anything involving nudity, drugs, or sexism.” It’s a stance that reflects her broader mission – using her platform for more than just self-promotion.
Indeed, Leyi’s experiences have shaped her into an advocate for mental health awareness, anti-racism efforts, and women’s rights. “At first, this career, like many think initially, seemed about fame and money,” she admits. “Now, I see it as a chance to make a real difference.”
This multifaceted approach extends to Leyi’s personal life. Fluent in English and Mandarin, with growing Spanish skills, she embodies a global mindset. When not in front of the camera or hitting the books, you might find her sketching, binge-watching anime, or cuddling with her cat in her LA apartment.
Leyi’s star is undeniably on the rise. Spring 2023 saw her land a coveted spot as the main model for luxury jewelry brand IVI, her face splashed across their website and social media. She’s also become a fixture at Modello Magazine, a local LA fashion publication.
“I’m grateful for every opportunity,” Leyi says, her eyes sparkling with the memory of recent successes. “But I’m just getting started.”
For those looking to follow her journey, she maintains an active Instagram presence and a professional profile on Casting Networks. Her Facebook serves as a hub for announcements about upcoming runway shows and projects.
As our interview winds down, Leyi’s parting words encapsulate the spirit that’s brought her this far: “I’ve faced countless doubts and setbacks. But I never give up. There’s always hope, even in the most desperate situations.”
In an industry often criticized for its superficiality, Leyi Zhou stands as a pillar of substance and resilience. From immigrant teen to rising fashion star and advocate, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that with enough determination, any obstacle can be overcome.
As she continues to break molds and forge her own path, one thing is clear: the fashion world – and beyond – would do well to keep their eyes on Leyi Zhou. This is one rising figure who’s just beginning to shine.
