MAXCINE ROBERTSON: REDEFINING STRENGTH AND STYLE ON THE RUNWAY
Maxcine Robertson, born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio to Jamaican immigrant parents, is the second youngest of six children. Growing up as a first-generation American, Maxcine quickly learned to advocate for herself. Her unique physique set her apart from the norm, but she found solace and discipline in tennis, a skill she honed under her father's guidance. Her talent earned her a Division 1 tennis scholarship to Wright State University in 1999.
Despite her athletic prowess, Maxcine yearned for creative expression. Deeply rooted in her faith, she balanced raising two daughters with her academic pursuits, completing her graduate studies at Ashford University in 2013.
Maxcine's modeling career took a hiatus in 2017 due to personal reasons, but she made a triumphant return in 2023. Today, she is a force on the runways and in high-end fashion photoshoots, working alongside industry experts. Maxcine also thrives as a coach and serves as the Model Director for Runway International Shows, bringing her passion and experience to new heights in the fashion industry.
Up close and personal with Maxcine Robinson?
QSM: Maxcine, your journey from tennis scholarship to runway modeling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue a career in fashion after excelling in sports?
Maxcine: As a child, I always loved fashion and anything that was fashion industry related. So as an adult my motivation stems from one happy place - tennis to another happy place - modeling.
QSM: You took a break from modeling in 2017 and made a strong comeback in 2023. What changes did you notice in the industry during your time away, and how did you prepare for your return?
Maxcine: I noticed a range of more opportunities and got my mental state together to return back to the industry.
QSM: Balancing motherhood, graduate studies, and a modeling career is no small feat. How did your faith and family support influence your journey?
Maxcine: Those influences have kept me organized, strategizing, and humble till this day.
QSM: As a Model Director for Runway International Shows, what is your approach to mentoring and coaching aspiring models?
Maxcine: I encourage models with real world lessons and motivate them to live life to the max now.
QSM: Your unique physique has set you apart in both your personal and professional life. How do you use your platform to advocate for body positivity and diversity in fashion?
Maxcine: My platform strives on not settling for the minimum but pushing towards the best version of yourself by showing up and showing out.
QSM: Collaboration is key in the fashion industry. Can you share a memorable experience working with industry experts or on a high-end fashion photoshoot?
Maxcine: I worked with a designer by the name of Evette that had 2 photographers and a MUA on set. She was so professional and helpful, especially relatable. At every moment this designer was confident in the people she hired, which they demonstrated, and this made the shoot go very well. In the end, I would work with all of them any day of the week.
QSM: Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations within the modeling industry and beyond? How do you plan to continue inspiring others through your work?
Maxcine: I want my goals and aspirations to lead me to a successful model career helping others in this industry. This modeling career would ultimately lead to enrichment programs for adolescences to adults. I will inspire others to live there life in a healthy mental state.
all photos shot by Philip Drew @photosbypdrew
Stylist: Ron Collins @velvedorestyle
