Transgender Contestant to Compete on Top Model

One of the 14 girls who will compete on the new season of America's Next Top Model – which returns to The CW on September 3 – is transgender.

"My cards were dealt differently," Isis, a 22-year-old former receptionist, tells Us Weekly exclusively in its new issue, on newsstands now.

Hailing from Prince George's County, Maryland, Isis identifies herself as "a woman born physically male."

Will she be a role model?

"I like to help people, but I'm here to follow my dreams," she tells Us.

The inclusion of Isis is being hailed by GLAAD president Neil Giuliano as "an unprecedented opportunity for a community that is underrepresented on television.

"We applaud Tyra Banks and The CW for making this historic visibility of transgender people possible," Giuliano said.

Isabeli Fontana

The girl most likely to succeed has done exactly that, adding her sleek aerodynamic features to the legend that is the Brazilian Revolution. With US and Paris Vogue lensing her, it's clear that Isabeli is now a prime contender for superstardom. Campaigns FW 05: Cesare Paciotti, Versace Fragrance SS08: Car Shoe with David Sims FW08: Belstaff with Steven Meisel, Roberto Cavalli with Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, Versace with Mario Testino, Valentino with Peter Lindbergh, Pepe Jeans with David Sims