Today we’d like to introduce you to Valentina Jarel.
Hi Valentina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I graduated high school and started school at BYU at the age of 16. I got a degree in broadcast journalism because of my love of writing and then was offered two out-of-state positions in my field. Reluctant to pick up and move I decided to stay and find my path rather than working a 9-5. I abandoned my degree and tried several different paths. First, I began freelance writing and logo creation (my minor was in design) because I refused to throw the years of schooling away.
I realized that that avenue was not fulfilling and I began making resin pieces and selling them via social media. That was the most exciting time of my life when I learned I could love what I did. I had several other ventures including car wrapping and window tinting, starting my own cleaning business, and UGC video creating and editing.
Throughout all of these ventures, I have been a freelance model and that is ultimately where my heart and passion lie.
My parents in support of my passions launched DIVI DIVI which is a diverse-based, purse and jewelry brand in which they knew I could use my modeling and knowledge in business to run together as a family and that is the current focus as a family. It encompasses the diverse beauty of our roots- my heritage is from Colombia. Its colorful purses embody the colorful culture and the designs of wayuu bags are directly from the wayuu natives in Colombia.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has always been a struggle to not know for certain how things are going to go. It is much simpler to rely on a steady income and a paycheck you can count on.
There have been ventures that start out looking promising and then come to a halt or some months that are just better than others. The scariest thing is the unknown but it is also the most exciting.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love modeling. I do mainly print but have done runway. However, I started initially in pageants and won the title of Miss Utah Latina and then went on to compete for nationals. In 2015, I owned and operated a Talent studio- LA Talent where I coached girls on pageantry, runway, glamour, and etiquette. There, I learned that I preferred modeling and participated in a DIOR showcase in Soho, New York.
I’ve also modeled for Babe Lash, DonaBella, Gregory Packs, and many more, and hope to continue modeling working, and expanding with big brands. My parents started the brand DIVI DIVI as a family collaboration in which I model and we all bring our expertise to the table when it comes to running the business. Each member of the family has their unique skill and talents to bring to the table as we work to grow the brand.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My mom Sara Yingling, was the one who sparked my interest in the world of modeling and beauty and supported me throughout all of my endeavors. My dad, Jarimy Yingling, helped me realize the value of doing what makes me happy rather than spending my life devoted to a paycheck.
Both of my parents supported me and helped me to start and run the talent agency when I was only 15. And also started DIVIDIVI which is a family brand we all contribute to together with my siblings, Suri, Sahari, Jaleh, and even our littlest, Jaelah Yingling. My boyfriend, Dagan Davis has been there with me to support me even when I am stressed he reminds me I am doing a great job and keeps me smiling.
Contact Info:
- Website: Dividivi.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/valentinajarel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DIVIDIVICO?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Other: Www.instagram.com/dividivico
