A Bermudian woman currently featured as a model in JET magazine, believes it is her differences that make her seem beautiful to others.

Tyka Edness is the 'Beauty of the Week' in JET's August 24-31 edition.

The journalism student at Clark Atlanta University in the United States had no idea her photograph had been submitted.

Her mother, Robin Hunt, sent a snapshot taken by Bermudian photographer Dexter 'Fudge' Smith, to the magazine last year.

The 20-year-old said she didn't believe it when her mother said the photo was selected above thousands of others for publication.

"I was just wild amazed. It was surreal, it really was, I just thought it was a joke," Miss Edness said.

"I am definitely proud for one, being a woman of a darker skin colour I think it is really important. As well as being cultured. A lot of people when they broaden their horizons they forget about culture and origin. I think it is really important to embrace that being a Bermudian model and not just a model."

The young beauty admits she doesn't fit into stereotypical beauty moulds and is intent on being a role model for other young girls. She said: "Growing up I was never considered beautiful. I had larger breasts and I had dark skin and curly, bushy hair and big eyes, all these attributes that aren't considered beautiful. So to me beauty is when you find out you are beautiful, that's when beauty happens."

Miss Edness, who has modelled for StyleBermuda.com, will also be included in JET's upcoming calendar which comes out in October.

So far in an industry that traditionally values lighter skin and a size zero waist, Miss Edness is content with being different. She said: "Honestly I love to dress up and stuff, but I am such a tomboy. I love anything with dirt or running somewhere, anything that is athletic, anything that is contrary to what people consider to be beautiful.

"I don't really paint my nails, so I think what people don't consider beautiful is what makes me beautiful and different.

"I wouldn't change that for the world."

The edition of JET magazine has already sold out at stores including People's Pharmacy and The Supermart Ltd. Magazine distributors Bermuda General Agency explained another shipment was expected to arrive, but has been delayed.