Q: How did you first get started in fashion modeling? What inspired you to pursue this career?
A: I first started modelling when I was in high school. I was acting and just happened to be around photographers, it naturally lead to me doing fun creative shoots that I then used to build my portfolio with! I never really dreamed of becoming a model, my passion was acting, but as I started doing shoots here and there I quickly realised it was another form of expression that I truely enjoyed being apart of! It also allowed me to meet some incredible humans whom have taken some special places in my heart!
Q: What do you enjoy most about being a fashion model? What aspects of the job bring you the most satisfaction?
A: I’d have to say it’s all about the people I meet. I love human connection, human interaction, human behaviour, everything and anything associated with the way we function/live/love and create I am obsessed with. Modelling has gifted me the joy of working with some of the most unique/creative/authentically inspiring people I have ever met. When I’m working on a set with a group of individuals that light my soul of fire, that’s what makes my heart sing.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience or highlight from your career as a fashion model? What made it special or significant to you?
A: I have two!! One being winning the Ark swimwear model search. That opened so many doors and opportunities for me that I had never dreamed of ever even being placed in my path. My life really took a turn after that. And I am forever grateful for it. Of course it came with its own set of challenges, but everything in life has pros and cons. It’s just which path you choose to walk down, which pros and cons you choose to follow.
The second one, would have to be having the opportunity to travel internationally for work. I first worked and lived in Bali, that experience I will never forget. It really shaped who I am today and I really stepped into my independence during that period. Currently in in New Zealand for work! Which has been such a surreal experience.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring models who are looking to break into the industry? Any key lessons or insights you've learned along the way?
A: Advice. I know it sounds cliche. But be you. Whatever you do, don’t ever fall victim to the intrusive thoughts that might want to enter you mind along your career. That “ you need to look/feel/act a certain way to succeed” That couldn’t be further from the truth. The way to succeed, is to be uniquely you. There is only one you in this world, and that’s the person that they want to see. If we were all the same, none of us would get anywhere.
Also, don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself. I know it’s so hard. I learnt it the hard way. Especially as a young woman. I just want to remind you that you have a voice and it deserves to be heard. If you are uncomfortable, if you don’t feel like you want to do a certain pose/wear a certain outfit, don’t be afraid to tell the team you are working with or your agent. At the end of the day the camera can see when you aren’t comfortable, and at the end of the day the team want you to be happy and you want to be happy. You want to enjoy yourself!!! Don’t forget that this is fun! And to have fun you gotta feel safe!
Q: Outside of modeling, what are some of your other passions or hobbies? How do you like to unwind and recharge when you're not working?
A: Outside of modelling, my biggest passion is acting! Ahah I’ve said that so many times but it’s true. This is the industry that fuels my soul. It has my heart. Away from that, I love reading. I love the human mind, I am always reading books on how humans function/our reactions/the science of our brains/our emotions/how our nurture influences our adult relationships/choices/life outcomes etc. I am obsessed with health and fitness, from loving pilates so much that I decided to get my pilates teaching certification. To taking a range of fitness classes like boxing/cross fit/yoga/dance etc. I love moving my body. I am a huge nature bug ahah I can’t be in amongst the city for too long otherwise I loose my mind, hence why the constant travel. I love hikes, exploring beautiful places, hanging by the beach, sailing. I love music, I’m not a musician, but I swear in some past life I was. I could go on but this would be an essay. I love many things in life. It’s so abundant.
