Name: Bethany Raye Anneliese Bell
Model Icon & Former Pageant Winner (Miss Royalty International Teen among other titles)
Family Dynamic:
I’m the youngest child in my family (17 years old), which means I’ve always had the blessing of learning from those who came before me. I have four brothers, one sister, and a god sister who feels every bit like a sibling. We’re a close-knit family, bound together by love, laughter, and an unshakable support for one another. Growing up with so many siblings has given me a deep appreciation for different personalities and perspectives, and no matter what stage of life we’re in, we always make time to stay connected. My family is my foundation and my safe place—they’re my biggest cheerleaders and my constant source of strength.
Hobbies:
Reading, acting, dancing and modeling
Business/Talent:
Betti’s Bliss Nails. Custom Press-on Nails.
Betti’s Bliss Nails is a creative nail design business specializing in custom, handcrafted press-on nails. Each set is uniquely designed to reflect your personal style, offering salon-quality beauty with the convenience of at-home application. From everyday elegance to bold, statement looks, Betti’s Bliss Nails blends artistry, precision, and a touch of bliss in every design.
Where are you from?
Southside of Chicago, Illinois
What are you passionate about? What driving force behind it?
I’m passionate about the art of performance—about truly stepping into a role and breathing life into a character. For me, it’s not just about reciting lines or hitting marks; it’s about understanding the heart of the story and connecting with the emotions the writer poured into their work. When I portray a part, I want the audience to feel what the writer felt, to see the world through that character’s eyes, and to leave with a deeper connection to the story.
The driving force behind that passion is the way storytelling can touch people—it can inspire, comfort, challenge, or simply make someone feel seen. I see each performance as an opportunity to honor the writer’s vision while also giving the audience something real and memorable. That connection, between writer, performer, and audience, is what keeps me inspired every single time I step on stage or in front of a camera.
What sets you apart from others of your same field?
What sets me apart is that my heart isn’t chasing fame—it’s chasing purpose. I see every opportunity in the performing arts as a chance to grow, learn, and connect, not just as an artist but as a person. I want to explore every facet of this world—acting, dance, modeling, pageantry—because each experience teaches me something new about storytelling, humanity, and myself.
Ultimately, my dream is to use those experiences as a platform to advocate for causes I care deeply about, especially conservation. I believe the arts have a powerful way of inspiring people to care, to act, and to see the beauty in the world worth protecting. For me, performing isn’t just about the spotlight—it’s about shining that light on things that matter.
What’s your purpose in life?
My purpose in life is to use my talents, voice, and experiences to inspire and make a positive impact on others. I want to keep growing as a person, exploring opportunities in the performing arts, and learning from every step along the way. At the same time, I hope to use what I’ve learned to speak up for causes I care about, like conserving the arts in schools and encouraging others to believe in themselves. For me, it’s about living with kindness, following my passions, and making the world a little brighter wherever I can.
What does it mean to be a Model Icon Model?
Being a Model Icon Model means representing more than just beauty on the outside—it’s about embodying professionalism, confidence, and authenticity in everything you do. It’s showing up prepared, respecting the craft, and delivering your best whether you’re on the runway, in front of the camera, or engaging with the community. A Model Icon Model sets a standard by blending style with substance—carrying themselves with grace, treating others with kindness, and using their platform to inspire.
What would you tell your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self, “Hey, BettiBug, you are a gift—literally one dope Black girl with way more power than you realize. Stop stressing about fitting in; you were born to stand out. And seriously, stop worrying about messing up—life’s just a giant dance floor, and sometimes you stumble, sometimes you spin, and sometimes you just freestyle and look amazing doing it. Also, don’t forget to laugh at yourself, even when things feel big and scary. One day, you’ll look back and think, ‘Wow… I really thought that was the end of the world?’ Spoiler alert—it wasn’t. Keep shining, keep dreaming, and remember being you is your superpower.”
Who are your Role Models?
Misty Copeland, Ashley Graham and my Mom.
Bethany Bell
Designer: Nerissa of Queen’s Closet Boutique
Photographer: Cuauhtemoc Campos of Model Icon Inc.
