Melbourne native Jennifer Atilémile made history in 2020 as Victoria Secret’s first Australian curve model and has since been featured in various major beauty campaigns for brands including Maybelline and Clarins. The ’23 SI Swimsuit rookie was photographed by Derek Kettela in Puerto Rico for this year’s magazine.
She is outspoken about creating change and representation in the modeling industry and uses her platform to advocate for diversity and fair treatment for women of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities.
“Working with Sports Illustrated has been a dream come true. Ever since I saw Ashley Graham on the cover [in 2016], I knew I wanted to be in the magazine,” Atilémile said of her SI Swimsuit appearance in an interview with Wonderland. “Getting my acceptance call from MJ Day just before Christmas started this whole experience—it’s truly changed my life. The shoot itself was so supportive, everyone made me feel like an absolute princess on set—and the launch was amazing. Such a memorable experience to celebrate this massive achievement with the most supportive group of women.”
Below are six of our favorite looks from her 2023 photoshoot in Puerto Rico.