Jamillette Gaxiola is a Mexican model and reality star on the TV Guide Channel series “The Shores,” which follows 4 girls living, working, and playing in Cape Town, South Africa. This winter, Jamillette joined the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) as an Octagon Girl on UFC 180, airing on Fox Sports.
She has been an active competitor in pageants, having represented Cuba at the 2009 Miss Earth competition because of her mother’s Cuban descent. Jamillette is the current Miss Cuba Grand International for 2013. She previously competed for Miss Mexico USA as Miss Sinaloa. Born in Mazaltan, Mexico to Mexican father and a Cuban-born mother of Lebanese descent. She is also an accomplished classical ballet dancer, trained by Angel Peralta. Jamillette is an ardent advocate for green energy and an eco friendly way of living. She currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.
You can find more information on Jamillette on JamilletteGaxiola.com. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @JamilletteG, as well as Facebook.
INTERVIEW
How’s a typical day in your life?
A typical day is very hard to nail down. Modeling tends to be really unpredictable. And I think this is the biggest complaint I hear from other models that it’s really difficult to plan anything in your life because things happen so quickly. But some things are a staple part of my day.
My rise and shine is Authentically Cuban, a shot of Cuban Espresso always starts my day. I’m constantly working, so getting to the gym is usually my number one priority before heading into work. In my line of work, a job can last all day.
3 things you can’t live without?
I’m fairly simple, my dogs, my food and my mescal.
Where are you based?
Vegas
How did you get started into modeling?
I’ve been modeling as long as I can remember, at the age of 18 I was crowned Miss Cuba and was involved in the pageant world for a few years which led me to be a cast member of a reality TV show called The Shores, it was internationally aired and can be found on HULU. When I turned 21, and having lived in Vegas I was presented by many opportunities in the High Fashion world. It hasn’t stopped since, and now im a part of the UFC family. So I’ve been very blessed and never forget to count my blessings.
How did you feel when you did your first fashion show or photo shoot?
I got my start as a teen, and like anything else that happens in your teen years, everything happen really fast.
I was offered a photo-shoot from a top photographer at the age of 16 while having dinner at a restaurant with my mom. At that age any man approaching you can be scary, but honestly it came very naturally to me, especially since my mom had been involved in the fashion world her whole life. That shoot ended up being a cover shoot and kick started my modeling career.
What did your parent first think of you being a model and where they supportive?
I come from a large Latino family, my father is of traditional Mexican heritage, and my mother is Cuban / Lebanese. Luckily My mother was a very prominent model and fashion designer, so it wasn’t that hard for my dad to accept it, my mom loves it.
What are guilty pleasures food wise?
I’m a foodie at heart, and I love sweets.. But my mom’s Cuban food is my number one guilt pleasure, Desserts numbero dos, and Sushi, my healthy kick. But I’m currently seeking a sponsorship from the Hot Cheetos brand.
What beauty tips do you swear by?
One of my ultimate favorites -raw potato slices to soothe your eyes. They are astringent which means they help decrease water retention and they also contain the enzyme catalase which helps lighten dark under eye circles.
First, wash and peel a potato. Cut two slices and place one on each eye for 10 minutes. Lay down, relax and let the potatoes work their magic.
How did you become a ring girl for the UFC?
The opportunity came as a blessing not too long ago, something that was suppose to be a small segment has turned into one of the greatest opportunity of my life. I am truly thankful for the faith and trust the UFC organization has put in me, and especially the love I have received from the fans.
How has the UFC changed your life? How has it opened opportunities for you?
It has been an amazing experience to be an Octagon Girl especially transitioning from high fashion runways to being inside the ring with the best fighters in the world. I have learned so much and have a wholehearted appreciation for the sport. And I can’t complain, I have the best seat in the house.
I never knew that I could hold so much interest and respect for the MMA woeld. MMA has become a part of my life and I feel blessed how I have been embraced and welcomed by the fans and the UFC organization.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to workout, eat, and play with my dogs, as they say complete life.
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
If you would’ve asked me how I see my self 5 years ago, I would have never been able to predict what is happening in my life today. But I know I am passionate about transitioning from being in front of the camera to a more creative role behind the scene.
What do you like to watch on tv?
Im a total binge watcher, Im currently watching Downtown Abby, Fresh Off The Boat and Empire.
Any future plans you want to share with us?
Make sure to tune in for the long-awaited UFC heavyweight title fight between champion Cain Velasquez and interim titleholder Fabricio Werdum has a new date, as the Mexico City Arena will host the UFC 188 main event on Saturday, June 13.
Where we can follow you?
Look me up @JamilletteG on Instagram and Twitter
Favorite Designer: Oscar De La Renta
UFC Fighter: Spider Silva
Travel destination: Maldives
Food: Cuban
Music: Drizzy and Little Weezy
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Photo Credit: Sheenon Photography
