Gabriella Symone Parker: Navigating the Path to Self-Acceptance and Plus-Size Empowerment

GABRIELLA SYMONE PARKER

***Photographer*** *| Mickey Armstrong* *@plusmodelphotography* *@mickeyleon1906*, ***Makeup*** *| Tonja Phillips* *@facesbytonja*, ***Hair*** *| Nyah Ellington* *@nyahstylez*
***Nails*** *| Helen Le* *@helennailedit* *@superspanails*, ***Gown*** *| DiDomenico Design* *@didomenico_design*

From her earliest years, Gabriella Symone Parker embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery, navigating a world that often seemed at odds with her own self-acceptance. Raised in an environment brimming with love and support, Gabriella's unwavering confidence became a guiding light through the challenges she encountered due to her size.

Throughout her formative years, Gabriella grappled with societal expectations, prompting introspection about whether acceptance hinged on conforming to conventional standards. The prevailing notion that plus-size individuals were only valued when adhering to specific ideals in fashion, career success, or relationships was a source of inner conflict for Gabriella.

In defiance of this unjust double standard, Gabriella established the empowering platform "I Am Enough" to advocate for plus-size individuals. This initiative encourages the community to demand respect in all facets of life, emphasizing that while the pursuit of excellence is commendable, love and acceptance are deserved even on days when perfection seems elusive.

Gabriella's commitment to this cause manifested tangibly when she entered the Ms. Full-Figured USA pageant system, eventually being crowned Ms. Full-Figured DMV Plus 2020 and Ms. Full Figured USA Plus 2021. Leveraging her modeling career, she positioned her plus-size body in front of the camera to amplify representation in the fashion and entertainment industries. Her impactful work on various campaigns garnered recognition on Essence.com and Fox 5 DC.

Reflecting on her journey, Gabriella acknowledges the challenges faced during a dynamic period in the body positivity movement. Despite setbacks, she remains resolute in her commitment to the cause, asserting that plus-size bodies are not a passing trend but a permanent and valid presence.

In 2023, Gabriella expanded her influence, assuming the role of a lifestyle expert for Fox Baltimore’s B’more Lifestyle and CW50’s Living Local DMV. Simultaneously, she co-hosted the return of District of Curves, showcasing her versatility and amplifying her voice both in public and behind the scenes. Joining the production team of The Full Figured Industry Awards further illustrates her dedication to honoring excellence within the plus-size industry.

Through it all, Gabriella's resilience and adaptability stand as profound lessons drawn from the challenges of recent times. Her journey underscores the significance of seizing opportunities and persevering through fear, embodying a spirit that encourages others to pursue their dreams boldly and unapologetically.

Who is Gabriella?

QSM: In your bio, you mention grappling with societal expectations regarding conventional standards for plus-size individuals. How did these challenges shape your perspective, and what advice do you have for others facing similar pressures?

Gabriella: Something I’ve observed while being in this space is how easy it is to compare yourself to the next person. And we know that society can be a bit unkind to those who don’t fit into their preferred aesthetic (whatever they decide that is that day). My advice is to keep your eyes on your own paper. Don’t get so wrapped up in what opportunities the next person has because you don’t know what it took for them to get there. There’s room for you in this industry regardless of your body shape, skin tone, or your age. What’s for you will always find you.

QSM: Winning titles such as Ms. Full-Figured DMV Plus 2020 and Ms. Full Figured USA Plus 2021 must have been significant milestones. Can you share the impact these achievements had on your personal journey and the broader cause you champion?

Gabriella: I couldn’t dream of a better place to call home than the Ms. Full Figured USA pageant system. When I first heard our official motto “Size Has No Barrier On Beauty”, I felt like I was finally able to put words to a feeling that I’ve carried in my heart for so long. It was an honor to hold those titles and the experience is one that I’ll remember forever. And no, I’m not competing again. LOL.

QSM: Reflecting on your experiences, what do you see as the most significant challenges within the evolving landscape of the body positivity movement, and how do you remain committed to the cause despite any setbacks (if there were any)?

Gabriella: One of the most significant challenges today is being plus size in a world that has decided that they don’t want to see that anymore. We are watching the reversal of pandemic era size inclusivity and body acceptance happen in real time. But my body is not a trend that’s “in” one day and “out” the next. I’m committed even more to publicly loving my body and encouraging others to do the same.

QSM: You've recently expanded your reach, becoming a lifestyle expert for Fox Baltimore’s B’more Lifestyle and CW50’s Living Local DMV. How do these new roles align with your advocacy work, and what impact do you hope to achieve in these platforms?

Gabriella: I want to show that plus size people aren’t one dimensional. We have lives, jobs, kids, and relationships. We like to travel, shop, and hang out with our friends. And I like speaking about those things because at the end of the day, we are just people who go through normal life experiences the same way straight size people do. I get so inspired when I see people like my girl Tiffany “LadyT '' Watson of B’more Lifestyle, because she’s full figured and fabulous, but also, she can talk about ANYTHING. I love that.

QSM: Co-hosting the return of District of Curves and joining the production team of The Full Figured Industry Awards showcase your versatility. How do these opportunities contribute to the broader narrative of plus-size representation, both in public and behind the scenes?

Gabriella: I have so much respect for production; not just the finished product, but everything that goes into creating that product. What I love about joining both District of Curves and the Full Figured Industry Awards is that I get to help create opportunities for other plus size people to thrive. I get to use my brain and find creative ways to highlight the people that are doing the work. It means a lot to have people like you, Tawana, and Mickey (District of Curves) creating legacies that are bigger than yourselves and inviting me to be a part of that. I’m honored.

QSM: Considering your diverse roles and experiences, what advice would you offer to individuals who may be hesitant to pursue their dreams boldly and unapologetically, especially in the face of societal expectations and challenges?

Gabriella: My biggest advice is to do it scared. Oftentimes opportunities come and we’re unsure if we’re ready for them. Believe that they picked YOU for a reason and that you, just you, are enough. There’s a blessing on the other side of your fear.

QSM: What would you say are two of the most important things that you have learned about yourself since entering into the fashion world?

Gabriella: I’ve learned to just be myself. I’ve learned that I can create my own lane and thrive without worrying about being something that I’m not. Everyone has a unique style and there’s room for all of us to succeed. I’ve also learned that I don’t need to dim my light or downplay my worth for anyone. To go where you’re celebrated and not just tolerated.

QSM: Where can people follow and support your journey?

Gabriella: You can follow me on Instagram at @mizgabby9791.

NAVIGATING THE PATH TO SELF-ACCEPTANCE AND PLUS-SIZE EMPOWERMENT

GABRIELLA SYMONE PARKER

Who is Gabriella?

SANDRA'S JOURNEY:

EMPOWERING SELF-EXPRESSION: