A 10-year-old has become the youngest ever trans model to walk the runway in New York Fashion Week.
Noella, who began transitioning at age four, walked the runway for Mel Atkinson, the designer for Trans Clothing Company. The 10-year-old got her first modelling assignment a few years ago. Now, she is fully booked up until November 2022.
Her parents, Dee McMaher and Ray, said they are incredibly proud of their daughter's achievement.
"Noella really doesn't ever get nervous or scared by anything. She's a tiny professional. She was so excited to go down the catwalk, excited to see all the people and the cameras. She knows exactly how to work a crowd." said Dee, who is an event director.
Noella is popular among her friends and gets many messages from other transgender children, who ask her for advice.
She has come a long way from a troubled toddler who used to often throw tantrums and refused to wear clothes. The change began at age four when she she went to therapy and was declared a girl.
Dee and Ray feel that Noella is now too young to be transitioning. And that's why they are supporting her transitioning and also exploring her identity.
"She blossomed as soon as we realised and allowed her to finally be herself. When she was seven, she legally changed her name. She also began modelling on catwalks. It has been so incredible and pure seeing her embrace who she is," said Dee.