A Stunning Return

Jena Sims is back in the spotlight as she graces the pages of the renowned Sports Illustrated Swimsuit in its upcoming May issue. At 36 years old, Sims captivates with her appearance in a daring Andi Bagus swimsuit, complemented by a striking bracelet top, all captured by photographer Ben Watts during a shoot in Bermuda.

From Dream to Reality

This is not the first exposure Sims has had with Sports Illustrated. The Georgia native first made her mark in 2024 when she co-won the magazine’s Swim Search campaign after applying three times. Her persistence paid off during a 2023 casting call, earning her a spot in the prestigious modeling fraternity.

Her determination was apparent at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show in Miami, where she made a striking appearance at eight months pregnant. Shortly thereafter, she welcomed her son, Crew.

Balancing Motherhood and Ambitions

Despite the challenges of motherhood, Sims continues to thrive in her career. She recalls her first Sports Illustrated photoshoot in Mexico, where she woke up at 3:50 a.m. to pump breast milk and squeezed in a quick 15-minute workout before her big moment. Her passion for this opportunity has been a lifelong pursuit.

“I have worked literally my entire life [for this],” Sims shared with the magazine in 2024. “This is my biggest goal ever since I was a little kid. I was so nervous flying here, but now that I’m here, I just feel so relaxed. I feel like I’m exactly where I need to be, and I feel like this is the beginning of such a huge new chapter of my life.”

Beyond Modeling: Entrepreneurial Ventures

Sims is no stranger to entrepreneurship. She launched her own swimwear line, OneOne, and is an investor in DIBS Beauty. Recently, she partnered with Steve Madden to design the brand’s inaugural golf shoe collection. This multi-faceted career exemplifies her ability to juggle various roles while remaining dedicated to her passions.

Looking Ahead

With her feature set to hit stands in May, Jena Sims is poised for a significant moment in her career, reflecting her hard work and resilience. Her journey from aspiring model to an established figure in the industry showcases the determination that defines her path.