Turlock native John Paul Padilla has long been an advocate for self-esteem, empathy and resilience for young people and has promoted those values through his children’s books featuring Johnny Big Ears. The multi-talented Padilla is now hoping to continue his campaign of compassion for all through the 2026 Next Runway Star competition, an online model search supporting the charity Rise Now US, a nonprofit organization that protects and secures fundamental civil rights for sexual assault and rape survivors. Winners receive a $20,000 cash prize, professional styling and an opportunity to walk in the Rise Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week.
“I want to basically show that sometimes our differences is what makes us stand out. I always felt like the ugly duckling many times during the course of my life. But I found out that as long as you accept who you are, whether you're skinny, you're chunky, you have big years like what I used to have, no matter who you are, you can make a difference in the world as long as you believe yourself,” said Padilla.
Padilla said that growing up he was bullied because of his appearance and often felt invisible, insecure and different. He wrote a story inspired by his own childhood experiences, “Johnny Big Ears, the Feel Good Friend,” which is available in both English and Spanish.
“Those experiences taught me that true confidence doesn’t come from being perfect. It comes from embracing who you are and refusing to let others define your worth. Today, I use my experiences to create anti-bullying books, music, and videos that encourage kindness, inclusion, hope, and self-expression… To me, the runway is about more than fashion. It’s a chance to show that beauty comes in many forms and that our differences can become our greatest strengths. I hope my story inspires others to believe in themselves, embrace who they are, and never give up on their dreams.”
Padilla has successfully advanced through each of the group rounds in the Next Runway Star competition and is now a quarterfinalist.
To move on, he needs the support of the community. Voting is open to the public, including a free daily vote, and every vote helps him continue toward the next round. Padilla’s official voting page is:
