Melissa Soriano                                                      
 
   I was born and raised in Southern California, so I'm a total beach bum and summer kind of woman. I don't only represent the disabled community, but I represent the Hispanic community as well. I do what I do because the judgement, the labels, the stares and the close-mindedness drive me to push forward and show the world that I'm capable of anything as long as I have the drive and willingness to do so. I keep pushing to achieve my goals because I want them for me and to know that I accomplished them. I want to feel that satisfaction and tell the world, "Hey, I achieved my goals just like you."
 I've learned that not everyone will view you the same, that some only see the wheelchair and your disability. That the world isn't as accessible or accommodating as they say they are.

   As someone who has dealt with a disability for many years, I've come to adjust to certain circumstances. I know that I’ll always need some type of help. I know that things won't come easy or quick like I'd want them to because for someone with a disability, equipment and approvals take longer and are expensive. I'm proud of the things that I've been able to accomplish: my A.A.S. in Accounting, being a Notary Public, being able to DJ, being involved with nonprofit organizations such as W.E.A.N. and Foodie4AccessCLT. And most of all I'm proud of having my own makeup business.

Photographer Ginny Dixon