Meet 2022 Rookie Olivia Ponton

Olivia Ponton was photographed by James Macari in Montenegro

Olivia Ponton is the epitome of an SI Swimsuit model. She’s not only garnered attention starring in numerous advertorial campaigns but also uses her popularity to spread positivity. At just 19, the Florida native shot to internet stardom in early 2020, shortly after signing to Wilhelmina Models NYC. Since then, she’s amassed 10.7 million followers across her social media platforms, where she promotes self-love, the importance of a healthy mind and body, and the philosophy of being kind to others.

In addition to being the face of Benefit Cosmetics’ Summer Brow Campaign (and appearing in campaigns for Marc Jacobs Fragrance, Ralph Lauren, Alice and Olivia, and more), Ponton is also becoming a prominent face in the LGBTQ+ community. She recently came out as bisexual with the help of Teen Vogue during Pride Month 2021 and is now opening up about navigating her experience during her first year of being openly bisexual. Her goal is to inspire young girls worldwide to chase their dreams and become the healthiest version of themselves, physically and mentally.

And while Ponton recently attended her first New York Fashion Week and travels frequently to big cities, she’s a beach bum at heart. Growing up on the beach in Naples, the model has always loved the ocean and owns over 150 swimsuits. In fact, that passion is what led her to design her swimsuit line with White Shore Swim and partner with the organization 4OCEAN to spread awareness about the current plastic crisis.

"We are so excited to announce Olivia Ponton as our second model to join the rookie class of 2022! Olivia is a breath of fresh air! She exudes nothing but positivity and love, while working extremely hard to raise awareness for mental health, the LGBTQ+ community and issues that are important to her. Her success is emblematic of the way the industry is moving and she works tirelessly as a figurehead of the next digital-savvy generation. We are thrilled to have such a hard-working role model grace the pages of our upcoming issue." -MJ Day

With so much under her belt before turning 20, we’re excited to see what this rookie has in store for the future.