“The Sound of Strength. The Look of Grace.”
In a world where authenticity often gets lost behind filters and façades, Jessie Elserafy stands as a compelling force of raw talent, genuine emotion, and fearless individuality. A rising star whose voice resonates with depth and vulnerability, Jessie first captured hearts with her stirring covers of iconic tracks like “Wish You Were Here” and “Grenade,” drawing listeners into her world with every soulful note. But her artistry doesn’t stop at music. Crowned Miss Congeniality at the 2022 Top Model of the World competition, Jessie seamlessly merges fashion, performance, and personal strength into a powerful creative identity.
With a growing social media following and a distinct presence both on stage and in front of the camera, Jessie is carving out her own path—one that champions emotion, empowerment, and self-expression. Her story is one of intuition over convention, connection over perfection, and heart over hype.
In this exclusive interview with CiiN Magazine, Jessie opens up about her creative journey, the artists who inspire her, and what drives her both in music and modeling. From pre-show rituals to fashion choices that command attention, Jessie shares what it truly means to stay real in an industry built on image. One thing’s for sure—this is only the beginning for Jessie.
Your covers of songs like “Wish You Were Here” and “Grenade” have garnered significant attention. What draws you to these particular songs?
Those songs have such raw emotion and honesty. I’m always drawn to music that makes you feel something real, and these tracks do exactly that.
How do you approach selecting songs to cover? Is there a specific process you follow?
I usually choose songs that resonate with me emotionally or lyrically.
If a song gives me goosebumps or I feel a strong connection to it, that’s my sign to cover it. There’s no strict process though, just a gut feeling.
Can you share a memorable experience from recording or performing one of your covers?
One memorable moment was recording “Wish You Were Here.” I got so caught up in the emotion of the song that I did the whole take in one go.
Your voice has a unique quality. How would you describe your vocal style and the influences behind it?
Thank you! I’d describe my vocal style as strong and emotional.
I’m influenced by artists who sing with heart—people like Evanescence, Sam Smith, and Sia.
I aim to keep it honest, even if it’s not perfect.
Do you have plans to release original music in the future? If so, what can your fans expect?
Definitely! Original music is on the way. It’ll kind of reflect who I am—real, emotional, and personal.
If you’ve connected with my covers though, I think you’ll really feel these songs too.
How do you prepare for a live performance? Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Before a live show, I usually do vocal exercises and take a moment to center myself.
I have a small ritual of listening to a favorite song—“Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence—that pumps me up and helps me get in the zone.
Who are some artists or musicians who have inspired your musical journey?
I’ve been inspired by a range of artists like Evanescence, John Mayer, and Amy Winehouse. Their honesty and emotional depth really shaped how I approach music though.
What role does music play in your personal life outside of your career?
Music is like a close friend to me. It helps me through tough times. It’s truly a part of who I am.
You were crowned Miss Congeniality at the 2022 Top Model of the World competition. What did that title mean to you?
Being crowned Miss Congeniality was a truly special honor.
It was really meaningful because it reflected the genuine connection I had with the other queens, and it showed that kindness matters just as much as talent or looks. I’m grateful to have been recognized for being myself and supporting others throughout the competition.
How did your journey into modeling begin, and what motivates you to continue?
I started modeling by chance—I had a shoot when I was 18, and then voila, it just took off. I also like to think being a Leo has something to do with it—I love the energy that comes with it! What drives me now is the opportunity to look and feel different.
What is your favorite fashion trend right now, and how do you incorporate it into your personal style?
Right now, I’m really into tailored suits with a modern twist. I love mixing classic suiting with bold colors or interesting textures to keep it fresh. It’s all about looking dope but still feeling confident and comfortable in my own style.
Can you describe a fashion moment that made you feel particularly confident or empowered?
One fashion moment that really stood out was when I wore a bold, tailored suit for a big event. The fit was perfect. It wasn’t just about the clothes—it was how it made me own the room.
How do you balance the demands of modeling with your music career?
Modeling and music keep me busy though, but I love that they both let me express different sides of myself.
I prioritize what needs attention, which helps me give my best to both.
Who are some designers or brands you admire and would love to collaborate with?
I admire designers and brands like Alexander McQueen, Saint Laurent, and Balmain. Their creativity and boldness really inspire me, and collaborating with them would be a dream come true.
What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry?
Be patient and persistent. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Focus on developing your skills, and stay confident in your own skin. Opportunities will come. Always keep improving and don’t be discouraged by setbacks.
How do you stay in shape and maintain your health amidst your busy schedule?
I’m an active person by nature, so staying in shape feels pretty natural to me.
I try to keep moving every day, whether it’s working out or just staying active.
What does beauty mean to you, both in terms of appearance and inner qualities?
Beauty isn’t just about how you look—it’s about who you are inside.
It’s confidence, kindness, and staying true to yourself. When your inner qualities shine, they make your outer beauty even more powerful.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?
What I find most rewarding is seeing my growth and how far I’ve come.
Being able to express myself and share that with others has been an incredible journey that keeps me pushing forward.
How do you unwind and relax after a hectic day or week?
After a hectic day or week, I like to read the Quran. It helps me find calm, clarity, and peace of mind, which really helps me recharge and stay grounded.
Is there a particular message or theme you hope to convey through your music and modeling?
I aim to share a message of empowerment through my work. Whether it’s music or modeling, I want to encourage others to be confident in their uniqueness and to find beauty in their own body and mind.
Your message for us at CiiN magazine
Big thanks to CiiN magazine for this chance to connect.
To everyone reading—trust your power, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward. Your story matters, and your voice deserves to be heard.
