HANNAH KENERLY -- From Cheer Stunts to the Runway and Beyond

Hannah Kenerly, a model known for her versatility and impressive flexibility, discusses her unconventional career path, from competitive cheerleading to high-fashion runways and now, acting. In this Q&A, Kenerly opens up about the challenges of shifting industries, the mindset behind walking for NYFW, balancing social media demands, and her aspirations in the film world, particularly her interest in action roles. She emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and a business-like approach in the competitive entertainment industry; offering advice to aspiring models and sharing her dreams for the future.

From high-flying cheer stunts to commanding the runway, your career path has been anything but conventional. What’s been the biggest challenge in shifting industries, and how have you overcome it?

The waiting is by far the biggest challenge for me. I try to remember that nothing happens overnight. I am taking acting classes and sending out letters to agencies that I feel would be a good fit for me.

NYFW is one of the biggest fashion stages in the world. What’s your mindset before stepping onto the runway, and do you have any personal rituals or superstitions before a show?

NYFW is so much fun. I love getting to meet so many cool designers and fellow models. I have made so many wonderful friends through modeling. Walking the runway is also a rewarding experience in itself, when you book a job you know that you were handpicked to wear that designers clothing. I always remind myself to perform and make the outfit come to life.

Social media has played a huge role in your success. How do you balance the demands of being an influencer while still making time for yourself?

I have a ton of help LOL! On a serious note, once your online presence gets to be a certain size, I think having help from knowledgeable sources in the industry is incredibly valuable.

If you had to describe your personal style in three words, what would they be, and how has your time in the industry influenced your fashion sense?

Glamorous, Fun & comfortable. My time in the modeling industry makes me appreciate quality designs.

Acting is a new frontier for you, and you’ve mentioned an interest in action films. Have you started any stunt or combat training to prepare for future roles?

Yes, I love action roles! I love kickboxing and trapeze as well as dance, cheer & zip lining.

You were featured in ELLE ITALIA, an iconic moment in your career. What’s next on your bucket list—whether in fashion, film, or personal achievements?

Being featured in Elle Italia was a huge, amazing surprise. Next on my bucket list is to land a role in an action packed series.

The modeling industry is competitive, and rejection is part of the process. How do you handle setbacks and keep pushing forward in your career?

Learning to have a business mindset about rejection. You will not be chosen by every designer, just as you would not choose to wear every designers clothes. It's just business and personal preference. It's not personal.

You’re known for your impressive flexibility—what’s the most unexpected way that skill has benefited your work in both modeling and acting?

Allstar Cheer. It’s a very brutal, competitive environment, so being exposed to that environment at age 12 really helped me handle the stress of proving myself to industry leaders.

If you could give one piece of advice to young girls who look up to you and want to enter the modeling or entertainment industry, what would it be?

Make sure you want to model, because it's your passion. The glamour fades quickly with a 12-hour work day so you need to be fully committed and passionate about modeling not just in love with the idea of modeling. I have modeled swimwear in 40 degree weather. It wasn't fun or glamorous, but I did it, because I love what I do.

You’ve had the opportunity to work with major designers and brands. Who is your dream collaboration, and what would make it special?

Chanel. I'm obsessed with everything they make.

Outside of your career, what are some things that bring you joy or help you recharge when you’re not in front of the camera?

From spending time with family and friends, my faith, reading, working out, and sleep, I find joy and a way to recharge.

Looking ahead five years, where do you see yourself? Do you envision balancing both modeling and acting long-term, or do you see yourself fully immersing in one world over the other?

I love print modeling and acting is a passion. I am hopeful that I will be able to do both for the long-term.

Where can we follow you on social media?

Instagram: @hannahkenerly

TikTok: @hannahkenerly