She's Got the Look Winner, Tanya Hutchison

TVLand's original series, She's Got the Look is a refreshing show that showcases women over 35 who are beautiful and talented, and can win the opportunity to model for Wilhelmina. The winner of the show's first season was announced last month, and it was Tanya Hutchison. After learning more about her, I discovered that not only is she a Wilhelmina model, but a true role model for ladies of any age.

Mrs. Hutchison overcame difficult childhood and adolescent years to become a successful model and Raiders cheerleader. Tanya admitted to the judges that her mother was a drug addict and had seven children by seven men. She survived a brutal attack by a gang of girls while a teenager, and endured several scars, which damaged her self esteem and her physical beauty. With the help of teachers and mentors she was able to regain her confidence and went on to college and succeeded thereafter as a model. She also competed in pageants, and became Mrs. California International, 2005.

I first learned of Tanya Hutchison from reading an article in Ebony magazine about mothers who focus on being at home with their children, and run businesses from home. She has five children, and runs an etiquette and self-improvement company called Role Model Productions from her home office. She has used her experiences as a model to help other young people conquer self esteem issues, and learn the value of inner beauty and etiquette. She even offers free etiquette lessons to at risk youth in L.A.

So when I heard that Tanya became the winner of the show, I was elated, because I felt that she truly deserved to win. The judges were able to see that this woman possesses not only physical beauty, but an inner beauty as well, and that should be highlighted. I applaud Tanya for her lady-like demeanor throughout the show, and allowing her true beauty to shine forth and inspire a nation of women. In this age of beauty and youth obsession, it's refreshing to see a woman who is older and beautiful, and has a family. Tanya shows that a woman can have a family, a large one at that, and still be a beautiful, attractive and accomplished woman. As Tanya has stated, "Beauty truly is a journey. We never really arrive. And the most valuable things that happen, take place on that journey."