When you meet Tayla, you’ll notice her fascinating eyes, which are filled with warmth and generosity. However, if you wait for her to grin, you could be astonished. Tayla was born with a very uncommon condition.
However, she did not let this deter her from pursuing her dreams. Against all odds, she became a successful model, demonstrating that beauty extends beyond face emotions. Continue reading to hear more about Tayla’s inspirational journey.
Tayla has discovered strategies to control her symptoms and lead a full life.
Meet Tayla Clement, a 25-year-old New Zealand model who has always struggled to move her gaze from left to right or express herself with her brows and upper lip. Tayla was born with Moebius syndrome, a rare neurological condition that weakens or partially paralyzes the facial muscles that control expressions and eye movements.
Unfortunately, Tayla’s condition made her the subject of scorn throughout school. She wished for a “normal smile,” but as she grew older, she came to accept her uniqueness. Tayla believes she was “born to stand out” and has pushed for persons with disabilities while also supporting diversity and body acceptance. Despite her difficulties, Tayla’s unwavering spirit and good outlook can inspire us all.
But her journey to self-love wasn’t an easy one.
Tayla’s journey to over 30,000 Instagram followers hasn’t been easy. She has spent years despising her grin and longed for a “normal” one. Nonetheless, she stands strong and proud in the face of overwhelming odds.
Despite her difficulties, Tayla recognized her true calling: to stand out and positively impact the world. Her disability and inability to grin have provided her with a unique perspective that has already inspired and affected many people.
Tayla underwent life-changing corrective surgery at the age of 12 to regain some voluntary movement in her face. The technique, known as the’smile operation,’ involved transplanting soft tissue from her thigh onto both sides of her face.
The idea was to give Tayla the ability to clinch her mouth in a way that looked like a smile. However, despite the rigorous 8-hour surgery, it was unsuccessful. Nonetheless, Tayla’s tenacity shined through as she refused to allow this setback define her. Despite her disappointment, she remains motivated to make a difference in the world, inspiring everyone around her with her unshakable energy.
And when we say she refused to let her condition hold her back, we really mean it.
Tayla is breaking down barriers and inspiring others through her natural “resting face,” according to Zebedee Talent. This pioneering model agency represents people with disabilities, visible differences, nontraditional appearances, and LGBTQIA talent.
Tayla is living her best life and sharing her one-of-a-kind tale after signing an international modeling contract. As one of only a few people worldwide with the rare ailment known as Moebius disorder, she is determined to use her platform to inspire others and raise awareness in her community.
Tayla’s tenacity and determination are changing what it means to be a model, paving the path for greater participation and diversity in the fashion industry. “I hope you know that no matter what, YOU can be, do, and achieve anything in this life … you are here for a reason, don’t squish your dreams, achieve them,” Clement went on.
