The
Bizarre
Sunshine King
Sunshine Project HELP/Sunshine Models on Wheels
mrstyyles@excapethematrix.com
TS: How are you this afternoon Sunshine?
SK: I’m doing great. How are you doing?
TS: I’m doing alright I can’t complain. The first question to start off this interview would be who is Sunshine King?
SK: I am the founder and CEO of Sunshine Project H.E.L.P. HELP stands for Healing, Educating, Loving, People. I also organize Sunshine Models on Wheels which is one of a kind wheelchair modeling group because we all have spinal cord injuries.
TS: What inspired you to start your own organization?
SK: Well my background is in dance and modeling. I never believed in giving up on my dreams despite my injury. The purpose of my organization is to help others that are living with an injury such as mine get the proper care and education. I want to support those that are disabled and help them to continue on with their aspirations despite what others say or do.
TS: Since your existence how has the transition and acceptance of your organization been for you?
SK: I’m actually getting positive feedback because there has never been a modeling group that has been wheelchair bound like Sunshine Models on Wheels. The modeling group is supporting Sunshine Project H.E.L.P in order to get the proper medical supplies and equipment. At the same time when the organization is seeking assistance some people aren’t taking us seriously because we are strong and independent individuals so some assume that we are perfectly fine and don’t need help.
TS: How has your disability inspired others that want to be in the modeling industry?
SK: Just showing people that even though the individuals with Sunshine Models on Wheels have a disability we are still living, loving life and striving to reach our goals just like the next person.
TS: How has modeling influenced your life?
SK: The industry itself feels like a Toys R Us for me because it’s inspiring, exciting, fun, enjoyable and allows you to express yourself in many different ways.
TS: If you could change anything about the fashion/modeling industry what would it be?
SK: Accepting all people no matter what size, height, ability or disability they may have but still within standards which is understandable so the message can still be clear.
TS: Do you feel that you and your organization will have a lengthy future within this industry?
SK: I definitely do because we aren’t only a one of kind model group but we do things as a family and strive to get the message across to people that we are capable of many things. We are helping the community of disabled individuals especially those with spinal cord injuries to maintain being healthy and strong. Society today is starting to accept people with disabilities because the number is growing everyday.
TS: What was the first project for Sunshine Models on Wheels?
SK: Our first project was on November 11, 2007 for Signature Ink’s Fifth Anniversary Fashion Show. It was a pleasure to be apart of the show because we were able showcase ourselves and show those in attendance who we are and from there we have been getting positive energy from many people.
TS: What do you enjoy most/least about the modeling industry?
SK: What I enjoy most about the modeling industry is the fun and excitement of being in the zone of fashion. It feels great when everyone is on the same page and striving to be on top. What I least enjoy about the modeling industry is people giving negative energy and being closed minded.
TS: How do you handle rejection?
SK: I take it as a learning experience but it’s not the end of the road.
TS: Have you always known that you wanted to be involved in the modeling industry?
SK: Yes, I have been modeling since I was five years old, so it’s in my blood.
TS: What’s your prediction for the future of the modeling/fashion industry?
SK: I hope the fashion industry will see that people with disabilities shop for clothing and want to look good just like the next person, so we are very much apart of the fashion industry. Sunshine Models on Wheels wants to see more people like us in the fashion industry.
TS: Who’s your favorite designer?
SK: My favorite designer is Felicia Dietrich because she is a crochet designer and it’s totally different and out of the norm. Whoever created the high waist jeans thank you so much because it helps support me and it looks and feels so neat.
TS: How would you describe your fashion sense?
SK: I’m normally an upbeat person but my fashion sense goes by my mood. I stay more casual most of the time but I’m looking to change up a bit.
TS: Which trend do you wish never existed?
SK: I would have to say the look 
of different colors that people wear. I think it’s too busy for my taste. I like it better when the colors are of a milestone instead of so bright and bold.
TS: Who would you say is the best dressed female celebrity?
SK: I like the style of Mary J. Blige and Alicia Keys?
TS: What do you think is the hottest trend out today for females?
SK: Of course the high waist jeans, skirts and ruffle shirts.
TS: If you could work with one model who would it be?
SK: Tyra Banks because she is very real and I love her style.
TS: If you could work with one photographer would it be?
SK: I would have to say Nigel Barker from America’s Next Top Model
TS: Are there any other talents or interests you have?
SK: I love art. I use to watch Bob Ross on Maryland Public Television. His creative talent as an artist was absolutely amazing.
TS: OMG, I used to watch Bob Ross every Saturday. His work was so refreshing and intriguing.
SK: I always wanted to take one of his art classes. He voice when talking about his art was so soothing.
TS: Amazing artist. Next question I have for you is what do you feel you still need to learn within the fashion industry?
SK: It’s always changing so I need to make sure I stay on top of new/upcoming designers, models and trends.
TS: What makes you the most uncomfortable?
SK: Being around a negative environment and a place where I don’t feel safe.
TS: What would people be surprised to know about Sunshine?
SK: People would be surprised that I am a go getter despite my obstacles.
TS: Do you feel that the fashion industry is competitive?
SK: Oh yes because you don’t know who or what the industry is looking for because it’s always changing.
TS: What advice would you give to individuals who have a passion for modeling but have a similar disability?
SK: Learn as much as possible and don’t let anything or anyone stop you for achieving your goals.
TS: What’s next for Sunshine & Sunshine Models on Wheels?
SK: We will be working on an open house in late June, early July and then get ready for our next fashion show in October 2008.
TS: Sunshine, do you have anything you want to let the readers know about you or your organization?
SK: Well one thing I don’t mind sharing is how I got injured. I’m a survivor of domestic violence which was related to my injury. I just want people to know that if you are in any type of verbal, physical, spiritual, financial or emotional abuse please try your best to get out of that situation and get some help from supportive family members and/or friends. If you don’t have anyone who can help please don’t hesitate to contact me Sunshine King at 443-278-3868 and I will do my best to assist you. I would also like to leave you with our motto which is “Style is always with us, walking or on wheels there’s no stopping us.”
TS: Well thank you Sunshine for taking the time to conduct this interview with me and I look forward to seeing you in other fashion events.
SK: Thank you Mr. Styyles it has been my pleasure and I appreciate you showcasing Sunshine Project H.E.L.P and Sunshine Models on Wheels.
TS: You are quite welcome. This is Teronce Styyles and “Remember Fashion Is Everything Some People Just Don’t Know It Yet.”