Woman in red skirt and jacket sitting in a chair inside a luxury suite overlooking a football stadium with a game in progress.
Salty Mermaid RUNWAY

Dive Into The Salty Mermaid World

Confidence. Freedom. Fearlessness.

$50,000
Grand Prize

More than swimwear, Salty Mermaid is a movement rooted in confidence, freedom, and fearless self-expression. Designed for women who embrace every part of who they are, the brand celebrates individuality, bold energy, and unapologetic self-love. From sun-soaked beaches to city nights, Salty Mermaid inspires women to live loudly, move confidently, and own every moment without hesitation.

What Awaits the Winner
$50,000 cash prize
A Luxury Trip to Miami
Walk the Runway at Miami Swim Week 2027
Access to Networking Events and Runway Shows
Be Featured in Maxim Magazine
Woman in a sheer white top taking a photo with a camera near the Colosseum at sunset.

Confidence looks good in every shade of saltwater.

Made To
Stand Out

Whether you’re modeling, creating, relaxing, traveling, or simply owning your individuality — this spotlight is for women who show up boldly and unapologetically.

Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.
Woman in a football jersey holding a phone, walking through a stadium tunnel toward a crowded football field.

Is This Your Moment?

You should participate if you are…

01

Confident, Passionate, and Driven

02

Looking for Visibility

03

Expressing Yourself Boldly

04

Ready To Be Seen

Bold energy. Fearless spirit. Salty Mermaid.
Register Now!

The Judges

*Judges subject to change
Black and white close-up of a woman with tousled hair wearing a partially open leather jacket on the cover of Maxim magazine.
Sarah Jon Porreca
Salty Mermaid Founder

Sarah Jon is the founder and creative force behind Salty Mermaid Swim, a bold and empowering swimwear brand celebrated for its fearless designs and body-positive mission. Her work has made waves at Miami Swim Week and earned multiple coveted features in Sports Illustrated, solidifying her place among the industry’s most inspiring female entrepreneurs. With a passion for helping women feel confident, beautiful, and unstoppable, SJ brings her signature mix of sophistication, creativity, and glam to the judging panel.

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair wearing a black blazer and a delicate necklace against a gray background.
Josh Ryan
Renowned Fashion & Editorial Photographer

As a photographer, I’m always searching for a model who is effortless on camera. Someone who can let go and get into that zone where she forgets about everything, focusing on the moment connected with me, my lens, and her environment. It’s a rare quality, but when you find it, it’s pure magic. Finding the next Salty Mermaid campaign model isn't just about looks, it’s about presence. She’s confident, comfortable in her skin, and has that quiet power that draws you in without trying. Real beauty has energy, and it shows the moment the camera starts rolling.

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair wearing a black blazer and a delicate necklace against a gray background.
Alkina Morana
2025 Hot Girl Summer Champion, Actress, Model, and Cosmetologist.

Being part of Maxim is an opportunity to celebrate individuality and confidence in every form. Modeling isn’t just about appearance, it’s about storytelling through emotion, energy, and authenticity. Every pose and every glance is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. I believe beauty comes from embracing your uniqueness and owning your journey with pride. Chase your dreams fearlessly, lift others along the way, and let your light speak louder than words. Believe in yourself, your passion, and your power because the world deserves to see it shine :)

Instagram Profile
Smiling young woman with long red hair wearing a black top against a dark background.
Karin Agstam
Maxim Fashion Director, Emmy Nominated Producer

As a creative director, I’m always looking for models who bring something authentic and unique to their work. It’s not just about posing; it’s about using every moment in front of the camera to express who you are. I want to see personality shine through the images - that spark of creativity and desire that makes you unforgettable. Stay true to your dream, set high goals, and outline the actions that will lead you there. Remember that failing is a part of the learning process and that success is the result of consistency and hard work.

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair in a ponytail, wearing a black zip-up top and gold necklaces, posing with arms crossed.
Lexi Kaleiia
2023 Maxim Cover Girl, Professional Model

Model Photography is a form of expression and art; it not only captures and freezes a moment in time but it has the potential to tell a compelling story. Use this competition to tell your story, make your images speak for themselves, and have them say one thousand words from the very second someone lays eyes on them. Be your authentic self and be unforgettable. Become the woman you strive to be and portray her using your skills as an elegant and powerful model. I’ll see you at the finish line - I wish every single one of you the best of luck.

Instagram Profile

How it Works

1
Profile

Create your model profile. Upload your strongest images, connect your socials, and introduce yourself.

2
Competitions

Join the Salty Mermaid Runway competition and then check your dashboard for more model opportunities.

3
Share your profile

Public votes will decide the opening rounds. Salty Mermaid x Maxim judges will interview finalists and select our winner.

4
Elevate

Winners gain exposure, cash prizes, editorial features, and real career momentum.

How Supporters Help

Share your personal voting link with friends, followers, and supporters.

Daily votes build momentum and push you closer to becoming the Salty Mermaid Runway Winner.

Three people sitting at a round table outside a café reviewing printed photos while a fourth person with a camera stands nearby.

Guidance from Maxim Insiders

Throughout the search, you’ll receive insights from the Maxim team on presentation, positioning, and how to stand out in a competitive modeling space.

“Own the moment. Wear the confidence.”

The Spotlight Starts With You

Your confidence. Your presence. Your story. Step into the spotlight for the chance to become the next Salty Mermaid Runway winner and experience Miami Swim Week 2027 like never before.

Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.