SI Swim Search 2020: Tanaye White

Get to know SI Swim Search model Tanaye White!

If you had three wishes, what would they be?
I’d wish for my student loans to be obliterated, for generational wealth for my family, and for healthcare for all.

If you could personally witness any event in history, what would it be?
I would love to have seen Michael Jackson perform live.

What is something that you have never done that you want to do?
I am a thrill seeker— I want to go skydiving!

What’s your most embarrassing moment?
A few months ago, I walked straight into the glass door while leaving the gym—hard. Every person in the gym looked at me to see what happened. I felt so embarrassed, I ran out of the building. I had a welt over my eyebrow for a month.

What’s the most regrettable beauty trend you’ve tried?
I don’t follow beauty trends much, but I regret shaving my eyebrows off as a child. They never grew back properly.

If you could hear one song performed live by any musician what would it be?
“Reckoner” by Radiohead

What’s something people wouldn’t know about you?
I'm actually a shy person. Social settings give me anxiety. But years of playing sports has taught me how to "turn on" my extroverted side when needed.

In a world full or influencers, who influences you most?
My great-grandmother, Momma. She's 90 years old and is always uplifting me and reminding me to be the best version of myself. We talk on a weekly basis and she always reminds me: "You are beautifully and wonderfully made."

What motivates or inspires you?
I am motivated by my determination not to fail. I've sacrificed so much to pursue my dreams of modeling, and so I go to each set thinking to myself: "I'm going to do my absolute best to create the most beautiful art today." And the results are always just that.

Do you have a self-care ritual or a creative pursuit?
At the beginning of each week, I listen to the newest sermon from Elevation Church. They've gotten me through some tough times and provide me with the motivation and courage I need to get through the week.

What’s the worst holiday gift you ever received?
All gifts are great gifts!

What’s your guilty pleasure snack?
Doughnuts. Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’ or from the grocery store. I have a weakness for those fluffy, sugary O-rings.