Starting over after a major life blow can be a daunting task. However, it is also an opportunity to rebuild and create a better future for yourself. It takes hard work, determination, and a commitment to self-care and self-development, but the rewards can be well worth it. Model, designer, and content creator, Chanel Uzi, knows this firsthand.

About a year ago, Chanel embarked on a journey to rebuild her life after leaving a narcissistic relationship. Like most survivors, she sacrificed and lost so much of herself by then, and her support system was almost nonexistent. When she finally broke, the choices before her were clear: run and move out, or stay, and lose her life. However, life didn’t magically become better when she moved out.

A naturally low-key person, Chanel didn’t even know how to tell anyone her story because she thought people would think she was weak. As a result, she struggled alone with feelings of low self-worth and self-doubt. She faced the challenge of establishing her own identity and finding the courage to pursue her dreams. One year later, she is glad she did. Besides being a successful model and designer, her story is an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges.

Chanel’s achievements are evident on her social platforms, where she’s built a loyal fan base of millions. On Instagram alone, Chanel has 2.3M followers on her official page and 554K on her personal page. Her audience on TikTok and Twitter is just as impressive, with 73.8K and 158.6K followers on each platform, respectively. Additionally, she’s attracted and collaborated with several industry-leading swimwear and lingerie brands like FashionNova, PrettyLittleThing, Ignite, Lounge Underwear, Savage Fenty, and SKIMS, to name a few.

Away from work, Chanel has created an amazing life she’s proud of. She found a home with one of the dopest views, surrounded herself with loving, supportive people, and traveled the world on her own accord. Through her journey of rebuilding and starting fresh, Chanel proved that it’s possible to create a better life for yourself by prioritizing yourself and valuing healthy relationships.

“Never let a circumstance or a person define you,” she says. “Your health: mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually should always be your main priority. Regardless of any circumstances, and if you feel like you’re stuck, there is always hope that you can turn your life around. Things will change for the better.”

Chanel’s experiences also made her a staunch advocate for mental health awareness, a cause she’s now dedicating her strength and attention to.

“If you or a friend is in a toxic or in an abusive narcissistic relationship or is struggling, it’s important to speak up and reach out to trusted resources that can help,” she adds. “Mental health should be a priority.” Since prioritizing hers, Chanel’s life has gained meaning and become more purposeful. From her relationships to her work, she’s also become more ambitious and goal-oriented.

One of her major goals is signing to a premier modeling agency soon. She also wants to spread mental health awareness and remind people in dark situations that life does get better if you don’t give up.