In this exclusive feature, we sit down with Devorah Story—a trailblazing model, entrepreneur, and devoted mother whose journey is as inspiring as it is transformative. From launching her career alongside her infant son to co-creating memorable campaigns with him as a teen, Devorah’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering faith. She opens up about balancing motherhood with a thriving career, navigating the evolving plus-size modeling industry, and building community through her wellness initiative, The Story Collective. Join us as Devorah shares how her upbringing, co-parenting journey, and background in behavioral therapy have shaped her into a powerful advocate for women, mothers, and dreamers everywhere.
Your modeling career began when you became a mother. How has growing up alongside your son, Christian, influenced your approach to the industry and your work ethic?
Devorah Story: Absolutely, motherhood has profoundly influenced my approach to the modeling industry and my work ethic. The idea that ‘I’m someone’s mother’ became a guiding principle in my career. We’ve been on this journey together since he was about 7 months old. I say often that “I was trying to raise him, but he was really the one raising me.” It meant always conducting myself with grace and integrity, even in challenging situations. It also meant prioritizing my values and making choices that aligned with the kind of role model I wanted to be for my son. Ultimately, raising Christian while navigating the modeling world has taught me the importance of perseverance, professionalism, and staying true to myself, all of which have been essential to my success. There’s just a level of grit that you have once you’re responsible for someone else’s life.
You’ve had the opportunity to book campaigns with your son. How does modeling together deepen your bond, and what have you learned from those experiences?
Modeling with Christian has been an incredible experience that has deepened our bond in so many ways. Imagine pursuing a dream you’ve poured your heart into, and then having the opportunity to share that passion with your child. It’s like passing on a torch, a legacy of creativity and perseverance. In those moments, we’re not just mother and son; we’re two artists working together to bring a vision to life. More than just modeling, he’s witnessed me actively creating my own path and defying expectations through the good and the bad. The easy and the hard. It’s shown him that he has the power to shape his own story and to break down any barriers he may encounter. These experiences have opened up incredible dialogue that empowers Christian to embrace his own interests, talents and pursue whatever his heart so desires.
The plus-size modeling industry has evolved over the years. How have you seen it change, and what role do you hope to play in its future?
(Laughing) It’s definitely changed a lot! I started modeling when body positivity was gaining momentum and brands were pushing for more inclusivity. It feels different now, though. Sadly, many companies that championed diverse representation are now struggling or disappearing or just moving on to the next trend, but to the brands that gave me a chance: “I’m forever grateful for you.” My story is intertwined with theirs, and I hope to continue advocating for women to truly love and celebrate themselves regardless of any barriers life presents.
What advice would you give to aspiring models who are also balancing the demands of motherhood?
If I could give advice to any mother aspiring to become a model, I’d say be clear on your ‘why.’ Modeling is a journey, with or without kids, and understanding your purpose will fuel you through challenges. See obstacles not as deterrents, but as part of your story. This clarity brings peace when balancing motherhood and a modeling career. Prioritize structure, routines, support, and especially self-care. Find moments of care that include your kids such as reading, outdoor activities and family time. Any care that’s easy is great care! Taking care of yourself is essential for success in both motherhood and modeling.
Devorah Story: Balancing Career and Motherhood
You’ve described co-parenting as a journey that required significant effort and creativity. How has your experience co-parenting influenced your perspective as a model and entrepreneur?
Co-parenting has definitely been a journey! Coparenting for us has existed almost as long as my modeling career! It all started as a way to support our son through our separation when he was just 2.5 years old. I used my background in behavioral therapy to help him cope, and I’m so grateful that it worked. It’s taught me so much about self development, resilience, communication, and creative problem-solving, skills that have been invaluable in both modeling and entrepreneurship. As entrepreneurs, my co-parent and I worked hard to build stability for our son, which required clear goals and collaboration. It didn’t always feel like a fun collaboration, but Thank God for growth! Co-parenting has shown me the power of teamwork, compromise, and perseverance, qualities that are essential for success in any field. I love talking about my coparenting story because it’s the transformation of a problem into a passion, but in real time.
Motherhood often requires flexibility. How do you maintain a balance between your professional commitments and supporting Christian in his own modeling and acting aspirations?
Flexibility is essential as both a mom and a model! I create structure, but I use it as a foundation to work around, not a rigid schedule. When I’m traveling, Christian has a stable routine at home. As my career has grown, I’ve learned to say ‘no’ to prioritize what matters most. This allows me to be present for Christian while pursuing my passions. He’s at an age where I’m exposing him to different opportunities and supporting his natural interests. He’s competitive and wants to excel, so we’re working on the importance of practice and patience in developing new or hard skills, like modeling, acting, basketball or soccer. It’s about finding that balance between supporting his ambitions and letting him explore his own path.
What are some challenges you’ve faced as a mother in the modeling industry, and how have you overcome them?
Being a mother and a model can definitely be a juggling act! It’s like existing in two worlds sometimes. I’ve had to handle unexpected calls from school while on set or figure out childcare when shoots run late. But honestly, motherhood has prepared me well for the demands of the industry. It’s taught me to be adaptable, organized, and incredibly patient. I’ve also learned to communicate effectively and advocate for my needs, both as a mother and a professional. These skills have been essential in navigating the challenges and maintaining a positive and productive atmosphere wherever I am.
Devorah Story: Personal Journey
Your upbringing as a Preacher’s Kid has played a foundational role in your life. How has your faith or those early lessons shaped your approach to life, motherhood, and modeling?
Growing up as a pastor’s kid definitely shaped my foundation. Those early lessons about faith, service, and community are still with me. But I’m also on a personal journey of exploring my faith and identity beyond those early influences. It’s about understanding who I am as Devorah, not just as a mother or a model. This self-awareness has helped me approach life with more intention and authenticity. In motherhood, it means raising Christian with a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose. In modeling, it means staying grounded in my values and making choices that align with who I am. I’m grateful for my upbringing, and I’m excited to continue building on that foundation for myself and those around me.
Your background in psychology and behavioral therapy is unique in the modeling world. How do those skills benefit you in navigating the pressures and demands of your career?
You know, it’s funny, my background in psychology has actually helped me a ton in modeling! Working with kids who have autism taught me about shaping behavior and creating systematic ways to reach goals, and I’ve applied those same principles for myself. With this notion, my mind has had physical proof that something could not exist in one moment and then exist in the very next. I know that anything that I want to create, I have the power to create it, to change it or even, to become it just by aligning my behavior and mindset to meet the goals I want to reach. And fortunately, I can’t unlearn that. This mindset is truly how I navigate the demands of life, my career or any new venture I take on.
Can you speak to us about the Story Collective and the retreat happening in Costa Rica?
The Story Collective is a wellness organization for women of color, providing a space for sharing stories, personal development, and community support. I created it about a year ago to address the need for self-care and empowerment that I felt myself. As a Black woman navigating entrepreneurship, motherhood, and building a career from scratch, I know how vital support and access to resources can be. The Story Collective started with a focus on aspiring models, but I quickly realized that many women of color share similar challenges and needs. We now offer monthly in-person and virtual conversations and workshops led by experts and professionals. We also host transformative retreats, like our upcoming ‘Collective Experience’ in Costa Rica this June. It’s a journey of holistic care for the body, mind, and spirit, featuring activities led by fitness expert, Charity Bryant and mental health advocate, Dr. Domenique Marie Roberts. We’re creating a powerful sisterhood and providing women with the tools and support they need to thrive. There’s still space available, so I encourage any woman of color seeking connection and personal growth to join us!”
Photo Credits:
Devorah Story @devorahstory
Bookings dorothycombsmodels.com
Cover Photo
Caleb & Gladys | @calebandgladys | calebgladys.com
Cover Makeup and Hair @jennylovamua | jennylova.com/beauty
Featured Images
Photographer @allencooley
MUA @kenyahaynie
Hair @quickhairsolutions
Styling @kenyaiman.style
MORE: View More Inspirational Interviews like this interview with Devorah Story
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