FROM NO TO NEW BEGINNINGS

ANDRÉ-RAMONE SHARES HIS STORY OF STRENGTH AND REINVENTION

André-Ramone sat in the audience at New York Fashion Week, captivated by the brilliance of the models gliding down the runway. Yet, one glaring absence caught his attention: no one on the runway looked like him. This realization sparked a fire within. “Everybody needs representation,” André-Ramone reflected. “Seeing yourself in spaces where you don’t often belong is transformative.” This epiphany inspired him to step into the world of modeling, embarking on a journey defined by resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination.

André-Ramone’s entry into the modeling industry wasn’t smooth. His first casting ended in rejection, leaving him questioning his place in the field. “Hearing 'no' can be discouraging,” he admitted. “But I realized those 'no’s were redirecting me to better opportunities.” Instead of giving up, André-Ramone doubled down on his efforts, seeing rejection as a tool to sharpen his skills and deepen his resolve.

A turning point came when he was accepted into his first major fashion show. “The feeling was indescribable,” he shared. “After so many setbacks, that 'yes' felt like validation for all my hard work.”

As his career took off, André-Ramone walked the runways in New York, Milan, and London Fashion Weeks. Each city presented unique challenges. In New York, the pace was fast and the energy electric. Milan pushed him with its focus on intricate tailoring. “Every show is different,” André-Ramone explained. “You have to adjust your walk, energy, and mindset to match the designer’s vision.”

Yet, André-Ramone faced a deeply personal challenge: his weight. As a big and tall model, he often felt like an afterthought. “Designers would bring clothes that didn’t fit me,” he recalled. “It was frustrating and dehumanizing.”

This experience planted the seeds for a decision that would redefine his life. In August 2023, André-Ramone underwent bariatric sleeve surgery not for aesthetics, but for a full mind, body, and soul reset. “I let myself go because I was always pouring into others and neglecting myself,” he admitted. “The surgery was a tool to help me prioritize my health and happiness.”

Recovery was grueling. He adhered to a strict diet, reframed his social habits, and embraced a disciplined workout regimen. “The hardest part wasn’t the surgery; it was the lifestyle changes afterward,” he said. These sacrifices taught him discipline, self-worth, and the importance of self-care.

André-Ramone’s transformation didn’t diminish his advocacy for the big and tall community. “I’ll always honor where I came from,” he affirmed. But he acknowledged the tension of straddling two worlds. “Why did I have to change my size to be treated with respect?” This question fuels his mission to challenge industry norms and expand opportunities for models of all body types.

One of his proudest moments came when his image graced a Times Square billboard. “It was surreal,” André-Ramone recalled. “Looking up, I saw not just a photo but my journey of every 'no,' every setback, every triumph.”

QSM: Why did you decide to undergo bariatric sleeve surgery?
André-Ramone: It was a full reset for my mind, body, and soul. I realized I had been neglecting myself while constantly showing up for others, and the surgery became a tool to prioritize my health and happiness.

QSM: What was the hardest part of your recovery journey?
André-Ramone: The lifestyle changes afterward. Adjusting my diet, social habits, and mindset was far more challenging than the surgery itself.

QSM: How did the surgery impact your self-confidence?
André-Ramone: I had to rebuild my confidence entirely. I knew who I was in my old body, but learning to embrace the new version of myself was a journey in itself.

QSM: What surprised you most about the recovery process?
André-Ramone: The mental transformation. It wasn’t just my body that changed—my mindset, priorities, and social circles shifted as well.

QSM: How do you maintain balance between your personal life and new lifestyle?
André-Ramone: I focus on self-care, like going to the gym, journaling, and spending time with people who truly support and motivate me.

QSM: What advice would you give to men considering a similar surgery?
André-Ramone: Understand that surgery is a tool, not a cure-all. Be prepared for the sacrifices and hard work required to make lasting changes.

QSM: How do you handle setbacks during your recovery?
André-Ramone: I remind myself of my "why" and lean on my support system. It’s okay to have tough days as long as you keep moving forward.

QSM: Has your perspective on health and wellness changed since the surgery?

André-Ramone: Completely. Self-care now means doing anything that brings me joy and contributes to my well-being, whether it’s exercising, journaling, or simply taking a walk.

QSM: Did the surgery affect your relationships with others?
André-Ramone: Yes, it did. Some relationships faded as my lifestyle changed, but I’ve also built stronger connections with people who truly support my journey.

QSM: What role does mental health play in your transformation?
André-Ramone: A huge role. As a mental health therapist, I know the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of change, and I applied that knowledge to my own journey.

QSM: How do you celebrate milestones in your transformation journey?
André-Ramone: By reflecting on how far I’ve come and treating myself to experiences that align with my new lifestyle, like a photoshoot or a trip.

QSM: What message would you give to someone struggling with body image or self-doubt?
André-Ramone: Your worth isn’t defined by your body. Focus on what makes you feel strong, happy, and confident, and remember that every step forward is progress.

QSM: How do you prepare for major runway shows?
André-Ramone: I focus on physical fitness, mental clarity, and studying the designer’s vision to align my walk and energy with their expectations.

QSM: What has been your most challenging runway experience?
André-Ramone: Walking in ill-fitting clothes during a New York show. It tested my confidence but taught me resilience and adaptability.

QSM: How do you handle competition in the modeling world?
André-Ramone: I focus on collaboration over competition. There’s enough space for everyone to succeed, and I believe in uplifting others.

QSM: Which runway moment stands out as your favorite?
André-Ramone: Walking in Milan Fashion Week shortly after my surgery was unforgettable. It symbolized a new chapter in my career and personal life.

QSM: What’s next for you?
André-Ramone: I’m breaking down barriers and exploring every avenue in modeling, from runway to print work. I’m also looking to inspire others by sharing my journey through speaking engagements and collaborations.

QSM: How can people follow your journey?
André-Ramone: You can follow me on Instagram at @TheAndreRamone. Stay tuned there’s so much more to come!

Article written by: Aubrey Boyd IG: @MrAubreyBoyd

Photographer: Rex Nash (IG @RexDNash)

Model: André-Ramone (IG @TheAndreRamone)