Get to Know 2023 SI Swim Search Finalist Acacia McBride

Acacia McBride.Ernesto Casillas

Acacia McBride is a model, influencer and digital creator from Starkville, Miss. The 25-year-old is a lover of all things beauty, fashion and philanthropy, and is an advocate for the special needs community. McBride received her B.A. in communications from Clark University in Atlanta and moved to Los Angeles to further her modeling career. She is currently featured in three international campaigns for Sephora for Patrick TA, Beauty Blender and TooFaced Cosmetics.

Hometown: Starkville, Miss.
Occupation: Model/Influencer
Age: 25

Please list five fun facts about yourself.

1. I have a birthmark shaped like a fish.
2. I was named after a tree.
3. There are seven people that have a tattoo of my face on their body.
4. I attended Rihanna’s baby shower.
5. I graduated in the top 10% of my class.

What inspired you to try out for SI Swim Search?

“What inspired me to resubmit for SI [Swimsuit] is the Pay With Change initiative. As a model and philanthropist, being intentional about what brands to work with has been an [important factor] for myself. Change is the new currency and I believe that we align. I also know that it has propelled many modeling careers, so I would be remiss if I failed to mention how inspirational that has been. SI [Swimsuit] to me is the perfect platform to serve as a model and a role model.”

What would it mean to you to win SI Swim Search?

“To say that winning SI Swim Search would be a dream come true is simply an understatement. Younger me would be so proud to even fathom what an accomplishment this is. I used to work at Applebee’s and now here I am a Sports Illustrated Swim Search Finalist. It wouldn’t be an accomplishment for myself, but also for the next small town girl who wants to dream big.”

What has been the best part (so far) about being a part of The Swimfluence Network community?

“The best part about being a member of The Swimfluence Network has been being able to connect with a community that truly celebrates all things women. It almost serves as a directory for any and everything you could need as it relates to connecting with other ambitious women. From the motivational check-ins, beauty and fitness tips to the events, it feels uplifting to know that a platform like this exists outside of the initial Swim Search.”

Who was the first person you told the good news to?

“My mom definitely got the first call. I always tell her about campaigns or things that I am working on well before they are released. It’s almost like my postgame ritual, so to speak. If not my mom, then definitely my mentor.”

What is your favorite SI Swimsuit memory?

“My favorite SI Swimsuit memory is seeing Tyra Banks grace the cover. Not only was she the first Black woman on the cover, I later found out that that was the year that I was born.”

What advice would you give to your younger self?

“If I could give my younger self advice, it would be to use what you have to get closer to where you want to be. I would also tell myself that you don’t have to have the largest platform, live in the biggest city, or come from the most esteemed family in order to reach success. My life has been a reflection of just that.”

What changes would you like to see in the world?

“Education equality. The root of broader inequalities stem from not having access to proper education. Growing up in rural Mississippi where our state is ranked last, I didn’t realize how global of an issue this was. Having a special needs little brother magnified the lack of funding, resources and training available to suit the needs of all individuals. This inspired me to co-found a non-profit organization called Micah’s Walk for Autism that supports children and families affected by developmental and intellectual disorders.”