GAZETTE DU BON TON

She is known for appearances in publications like GQ, Galore Magazine and the Playboy Playmate of the Month for February 2017. At fourteen, she was scouted at a mall in Raleigh and asked if she wanted to be in a fashion show. She moved to Florida and signed with an agency. We caught up with Joy in Miami during Miami Swim Week.

What were you like as a child?

I grew up on a small farm in North Carolina. With 6 brothers and 3 sisters I was still very shy as a child. I spent a lot of time outside building forts, climbing trees and riding horses. I was definitely a Tomboy!

How did you get discovered?

When I was 14, I was approached in the local mall by a teen clothing brand named Delia's. They asked me if I wanted to walk in their fashion show, I did, and I loved it! Ever since, I've emerged myself into fashion and love being in front of the camera!

What was your first big break in the industry?

I haven't had one big break, I have had a challenging journey. From the people I have met along the way, to each campaign or lookbook I've shot, they all have been a step in my difficult but steady journey. I think the fact that I never gave up is why I'm where I am in my career today.

Are there any models in the industry you look up to?

Model Coco Rocha created the jewelry line for Senhoa, which supports the victims of human trafficking in Cambodia. Tyra Banks started her own television show and is a leading advocate for women's rights! Powerful woman leaders like this have encouraged me to start my own charity: The Jade's Vine Foundation.

You started The Jade´s Vine foundation , tell us about it and why is it important to you ?

The Jade's Vine Foundation is a charity I started to help save and protect endangered species around the world. Animals and plants have always been a passion of mine, especially since I grew up on a farm! So informing and encouraging others to help in this cause is my main focus right now. And people can know that 100 percent of their donations are directly used to help stop the extinction of our planet's many amazing species!

If you weren't a model or actress, what would you want to do?

If I weren't shooting or on set every day, I would spend my time following my passions to be a full time artist, philanthropist and chef!

What's one item in your closet you would never throw away?

Some of my coveted wardrobe treasures often come from thrifting, vintage boutiques and second hand stores. One piece I couldn't live without is my all black vintage Celine bag that I found at a flea market!

What's your favorite indulgences?

Cooling off in the ocean on a hot summer day, playing chess, homemade truffle vegan pasta, Game of Thrones, and Snapchat.

What's new for Joy?

I have some excited new projects on the way! This month I am filming alongside Bruce Willis in Reprisal, a new action thriller directed by Brian A. Miller. And I just shot the Guess lingerie campaign with Josh Ryan!

FLORAL DRESS: ZIMMERMAN FEATHER TEE: OPENING CEREMONY WHITE JEAN: J BRAND
EYELET ROMPER: ZIMMERMAN DENIM JACKET: SHOES: GUCCI LOCATION: ICON BRICKELL MIAMI