Swimsuit

Get to Know 2023 Swim Search Finalist Sharina Gutierrez

The model’s mission is to be a voice for anyone who has ever felt less than their true potential.

SI Staff

Sharina Gutierrez.

Sharina Gutierrez.

Sharina Gutierrez is a model, entrepreneur, sound guide and mother of three from Los Angeles. Born to Filipino parents who migrated to the U.S., the 32-year-old has made a name for herself in the fashion industry, having appeared on magazine covers, campaigns, commercials and music videos since she was 12 years old. She has worked with brands such as Ralph Lauren, Estee Lauder, Rimmel London and Reebok, among others. In addition to her modeling career, Gutierrez is a sound guide who helps people rise to their higher selves and pursue a life of unconditional self-love. She is also a founding member of Mama Mantra, a family brand launching in 2023 that focuses on spreading positivity and encouraging parents and children to believe in themselves and break barriers. She is also a partner in a manufacturing company that helps existing brands, influencers, athletes and celebrities create successful brands by offering resources to push their companies to the next level. Gutierrez’s mission is to  be a voice for anyone who has ever felt less than their true potential.

Hometown: Born in Los Angeles, raised in Riverside, Calif.
Occupation: Model, entrepreneur and sound guide. The proudest role I play is being a full-time mom of three children and one pup.
Age: 32

 Please list five fun facts about yourself. 

  1. I am a great singer but only in the shower.
  2. My daughters and I love to dance to “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift.
  3. I love to bake. It’s therapeutic for me.
  4. I just recently found out I have a green thumb and can grow plants from seeds. Gardening has become one of my favorite hobbies.
  5. I love a good family living room dance battle. 

What inspired you to try out for SI Swim Search?

“The first time I ever met the SI Swimsuit team was 10 years ago. I was 22 years old. Meeting [editor in chief] MJ [Day] for the first time, I was nervous and unsure of myself. I remember feeling I was not good enough. My life was much different then than it is today. I was young and had no idea what I wanted. As I replayed the many scenarios of what ifs in my mind, my dream of being a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model never changed.

Through these 10 years I continued to push my agencies to get me back in the door.  I found out about The Swimfluence Network through SI Swim’s Instagram page and decided to take a leap of faith and submit my own video. Because I believe in myself and took a chance on my dream to be an SI rookie. I am here today with you. A step closer to a dream come true. All I can say is, ‘Thank you SI Swim team for this amazing experience! I appreciate you all!’”

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

“Not only would it be a dream come true, it would be an honor to win SI Swim Search. To be a part of the SI Swim team would mean being a part of an empowering tribe of game changers who use their platforms to uplift one another and advocate for the change this world so desperately needs. I am doing this not only for me, but also for my children, Russ, Bodhi, my family, friends and the community that has supported me through these years. This win is for all the sacrifices my ancestors made so I can live the life I lead today. I am nothing without the love and support you have all given to me. This achievement is for you all. Thank you for the love and support that has carried me through this journey.”

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

“The community of people I’ve gotten the chance to get to know. The Swimfluence Network has been such an uplifting and motivating environment. There is truly nothing like it. Everyone genuinely wants to see each other win. That’s something I’ve always prayed for, to be aligned with people who pray good upon me the way I do them. With The Swimfluence Network, I have that and so much more.”

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

“My partner Russ and our children. I cried every time. From being Top 24 to Top 12 , I am still on a high. I was in the middle of my daughter's ballet class when I received the good news. It was in the middle of filming a ballet routine, when I saw Mara and Sarah's names pop up on my phone. I swear I almost threw my phone. I couldn’t hold back the tears. Once I got a moment, I went out to the parking lot, and I danced and cried tears of joy. This has truly been one of the most humbling experiences for me. Sometimes I just don't have the words. It’s a feeling I can never explain. I am just so grateful this version of me gets a second chance!”

What is your favorite SI Swimsuit memory?

“I have many favorite SI Swimsuit moments, but my most favorite is seeing my girlfriend Nicole Willams English become a rookie. I’ll never forget the first time I met Nicole many moons ago. One of our first conversations sitting in a studio together was how we both dreamed of becoming SI Swim models. Seeing her evolve as a model and as a person, her walking that runway and announcing her pregnancy—I couldn’t help but feel her joy. She truly deserved it! That woman is amazing with such a big heart.”

What advice would you give to your younger self?

“All the times you failed and made mistakes are going to lead you to the biggest wins of your life. Don’t ever let those moments define you. You are born to be different. Don’t spend time trying to blend in. Embrace who you are and allow yourself to soar. You are going to love everything you have ever doubted yourself, because you know more than anyone who you truly are inside. Keep dreaming no matter how crazy [your dreams] may seem, because you will achieve them.”

What changes would you like to see in the world?

“I would love for people to love themselves so much they would never want to hurt anyone else. That is the biggest change I want to see in the world. To see a world that is operating from a place of love where we can all come together to uplift one another and cheer one another on. We all walk different unique paths tailored to us as individuals. I wish people would see that. Be happy for other people’s success no matter where they are on their journey. Love conquers all. Everyone deserves to win.”

Read more about the 2023 SI Swim Search Top 12 here.

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