A Dancer With a Dream
“I plan on fulfilling the role of the Future Face of Foothills by being a role model to younger girls,” - Katlyn Saltzstein
Katlyn Saltzstein is a spunky 15-year-old with a huge heart and an amazing smile—which graced her face when she was crowned Future Face of Foothills (FFOF) in the fall. She encompasses style, substance and sophistication, which is why she was named the winner of Arizona Foothills Magazine’s 15-and-under model search contest. (Saltzstein will serve as the FFOF through Dec. 31, 2012.) Though she received a pile of incredible prizes, Saltzstein says, “I plan on fulfilling the role of FFOF by being a role model to younger girls. I want to show them you can achieve your dreams in a classy manner. I am looking forward to working with everyone at AFM this upcoming year.”
The Gilbert resident appears to be a bit quiet but once she starts talking, you realize she is sincere and has nothing but the best intensions for everyone around her. When the 6-foot 1-inch brunette beauty walks into a room, you cannot help but notice. Clearly, she was meant to be a model—but the journey has been sometimes difficult. Saltzstein says she has struggled with her height and “people I don’t know always glare or ask questions like there is something wrong with me,” she says. Saltzstein realizes that remarks about her height are unavoidable but, sometimes, can be harsh. To keep from letting the comments and stares get her upset, her mom always tells her to “stay true to [her] heart”—and that is exactly what she does. Saltzstein tears up when asked why her mother is her role model. “She works so hard every day and doesn’t give up on what she believes in. I love her and want to be just like her.”
Outside of modeling, Saltzstein puts her long legs to good use as a dancer. She has been pursuing the passion for six years; she is on the dance company (and an honor student) at Mesquite High School and competes competitively. Saltzstein is on a dance scholarship, which has enabled her to help others. She assists with three ballet classes for toddlers, three times a week, at Desert Star Dance. (She also teaches tap and jazz for students up to age 12.) Inspired by “So You Think You Can Dance” contestants and her idol, choreographer Mia Michaels, Saltzstein wants to have her own studio and show the world what she is made of.
