SI Swimsuit Models Reflect on Fulfilled Dreams While on Set in Fort Myers, Fla.

Earlier this year, five familiar faces and two rookies traveled to Fort Myers, Fla., for the 2026 SI Swimsuit Issue. And while Katie Austin, Christen Goff, Gabi Moura, Olandria, Jasmine Sanders, Jena Sims and Ellie Thumann each posed for some truly stunning features in front of photographer Katherine Goguen’s lens, they also took some time away from the cameras to reflect.

While on set in the Sunshine State, each of our models penned sweet letters to their future selves, musing about everything from living in the present to making their younger selves proud. Another common theme? Taking a moment to acknowledge how far they have come and the dreams they have fulfilled through dedication and hard work.

“I am writing you from the future, and I just have to say how proud of you I am. I know this season of life has been beautiful, challenging and intensely transformative,” Goff, who returns for her sixth year with SI Swimsuit, penned. “ ... You really are becoming exactly what you've always dreamed to be. A mother, a wife, a woman fulfilled with an amazing career and incredible family and friends. Enjoy all of these little moments because they go by so fast.”

Christen Goff was photographed by Katherine Goguen on Bowman’s Beach Park in Sanibel, Fla. Swimsuit by Victoria’s Secret. | Katherine Goguen/Sports Illustrated

Sanders, an SI Swimsuit legend, made sure to remind herself that everything she has achieved through her eight years with SI Swimsuit is all because of her ability to grind. However, she also relies heavily on her faith to guide the way.

Jasmine Sanders was photographed by Katherine Goguen at Pine Island Sound Fishing Shacks. Swimsuit by Sienna Swim. | Katherine Goguen/Sports Illustrated

“You deserve this more than anything,” she wrote. “I know the work you put in to get this far, and you will continue to impress little you ... Just continue to trust the process, trust in God and know what is meant for you will be.”

Austin, who co-won the Swim Search and was named Rookie of the Year alongside Goff in 2021 and 2022, respectively, shared a similar sentiment: “Enjoy each moment, and truly everything will work out exactly how it’s supposed to.”

Thumann, who returns to SI Swimsuit for the fourth year in a row, took a beat to remind her future self how proud she is of her accomplishments to date.

“I don’t think you give yourself enough credit for constantly showing up for yourself and others despite how busy you always are,” she admitted. “You should feel so proud of the life that you have created for yourself.”

Ellie Thumann was photographed by Katherine Goguen at South Seas Resort on Captiva Island, Fla. Swimsuit by Chloé Rose. | Katherine Goguen/Sports Illustrated

SI Swimsuit’s 2024 Rookie of the Year congratulated herself for “living out [her] wildest dreams.” Additionally, Sims praised herself for “[showing] the world how strong you are, both on the inside and on the out.”

Jena Sims was photographed by Katherine Goguen at Pine Island Sound Fishing Shacks. Swimsuit by Indah. | Katherine Goguen/Sports Illustrated

Olandria, who is a fan favorite from Season 7 of Love Island USA, urged her future self to appreciate how much she has accomplished in such a short amount of time.

Olandria was photographed by Katherine Goguen at South Seas Resort on Captiva Island, Fla. Swimsuit by Oséree. | Katherine Goguen/Sports Illustrated

“Your courage, confidence, bravery, et cetera, has truly shaped you into a fearless and well-rounded individual,” she continued. “ ... You are truly an icon in the making.”

Moura, who like Olandria, will be featured in the SI Swimsuit Issue for the first time this year, encouraged herself to always remember she is beautiful, kind and smart.

“Please remember you’re deserving of all the amazing things you have achieved, and I’m so glad you were able to live out all of your dreams, so stress less and live your life to the fullest,” she advised.