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Thailand Kanya Sesser has consistently broken barriers as a para-athlete, Hollywood actress, and model, demonstrating resilience and empowering others.
Kanya Sesser began modeling for Billabong at the age of 15, marking an early partnership in her modeling career.
Kanya Sesser has worked with Adidas as one of the first para-models to enter mainstream fashion.
Kanya Sesser partnered with Sephora, contributing to her recognition as a para-model in mainstream fashion.
Kanya Sesser worked with Sweaty Betty, further establishing her presence as a para-model.
Kanya Sesser has been associated with Abercrombie & Fitch, expanding her portfolio of brand partnerships.
Kanya Sesser partnered with Ruby Love, a brand for functional period-proof underwear, to promote worry-free solutions for individuals.
Kanya Sesser has modeled for Nike, aligning with her athletic image and involvement in various sports.
Kanya Sesser was born in September 1992 in Thailand with a congenital absence of both legs. As an infant, she was abandoned outside a Buddhist temple in Pak Chong and spent her early years under the care of hospital staff. In May 1998, an American family adopted Kanya, and she moved to Portland, Oregon. During her childhood, she underwent several surgeries for webbed fingers and an extra finger. She also engaged in various adaptive sports, including wheelchair basketball, racing, tennis, and rugby, and taught herself to walk on her hands. Sesser was a cheerleader in high school until her freshman year and gained recognition for her confidence.
At the age of 15, Kanya Sesser began her modeling career, working with sports brands like Billabong. Her career progressed to include collaborations with significant brands such as Adidas, Sephora, Sweaty Betty, Abercrombie & Fitch, Nike, and Ruby Love. Kanya has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry as one of the first para-models to break into mainstream fashion, including walking runways at New York Fashion Week in 2021 and 2022. Beyond modeling, Sesser has made her mark in the entertainment industry, taking on roles such as Rosey Valera, a professional surfer, in “Hawaii Five-0,” and a stunt zombie in “The Walking Dead,” as well as appearing in “Code Black.”
Kanya Sesser further developed her career as a multi-sport athlete, participating in skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, skiing, and basketball. She planned to compete in the 2018 Winter Paralympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Sesser shattered a world record for the longest handstand on a skateboard, holding the pose for 19.65 seconds. She also competed at the U.S. Paralympics Track and Field National Championships in 2010. Through her “No Legs, No Limits” campaign, Kanya Sesser advocates for individuals with disabilities, adoptee communities, and women, using her platform to promote inclusivity in sports, media representation, and city life through international speaking engagements and collaborations.
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