Shy Woman With Low Self-Esteem Becomes Model At 70 After Chance Encounter

July 22, 2024

In an inspiring turn of events, a woman in her 70s has become a model thanks to a chance encounter with a stranger.

Meet Anne.

woman 70 becomes model Anne
@modelstrangers and @acamodels

Photographer Christopher Ward, who recently started approaching strangers to take their photos as a form of personal therapy, launched a project called "Model Strangers." Through this project, he takes photos and videos of people he finds "beautiful," highlighting their unique stories.

Earlier this year, Ward met Anne outside of Belfast City Hall. During a video interview, Anne shared that she is a shy and retiring person who, like many of us, struggles with self-esteem.

The video of their encounter went viral, amassing over 40 million views across social media platforms.

@modelstrangers Anne was signed by ACA Models in Belfast atter appearing on Model Strangers! I an so thrilled for her. It has been a rollercoaster of a ride for her in 2024. . . . #belfast #belfasttiktok #ireland #northernireland #maturewomen #streetstyle #olderwomen #streetphotography #streetphotographer #streetinterview ♬ original sound - Chris

"She has become a celebrity of sorts around Belfast, being stopped by people who have thanked her for being an inspiration to them," Ward shared.

Anne's newfound fame has led to modeling opportunities with Kindred of Ireland, and she has even been signed with ACA Models.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by ACA models (@acamodels)

Anne's favorite part of her new career is proving to herself that life doesn't end at 70.

"It's not over as soon as you hit 70," she told SWNS.

She's been thrilled by the positive reactions from people who stop her on the street. "It’s wonderful to see that an older woman can shine and make a difference," she added.

Anne's story is a beautiful reminder that it's never too late to embrace new opportunities and that sometimes, all it takes is a chance encounter to change one's life.

"I can't overstate how proud I am of her," Ward said.