Meet The Model Behind The Cover Of The June 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Stunning Marona Tanner

Posted on by Alex

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Cover Photography by: i2frame_photography

Marona Tanner is a Sydney-based Model. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication majoring in 3D Animation and Graphic Design, as well as certificates in both Screen Acting and Finance. It was her family’s move to Australia that kickstarted Marona Tanner’s successful modeling career. Her stunning beauty, a result of her Egyptian heritage, drew the admiration of anyone she came across with, and for good reason. Besides being a full-time model and a high-profile Instagram star with more than half a million followers, Marona also possesses an acting degree, she’s a sculptor and an animator who can speak 3 languages; English, Arabic, and French. She has modelled for high profile brands such as Abyss By Abby, Do You Even, Lorna Jane, Freddy, Fashion Nova, JD Sports, L’Oréal, Lonsdale, and many more so it’s safe to say that Marona is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Marona to discuss her journey in the modeling industry and here’s what went down:

How did you get into the modeling industry? How were you actually ‘discovered’?

Since I’ve moved to Australia, I feel like I have been guided by almost every person I come across to do modeling as a full-time job.

Photographed by @i2frame_photography

What do you like most about being a model?

Getting to meet creative people from all around the world. I’ve modeled for a lot of overseas brands so it’s been absolutely amazing dealing and working with many creative minds.

The downside to being a model?

I guess modeling in Australia can be a bit challenging which is why it’s very important for professional models to broaden themselves and have agencies in different countries.

What do you like most when it comes to partnering with various brands?

Networking and building strong relationships with small and big brands.

Photographed by @dacshots

What do you post on Instagram the most?

Mostly about fashion and style.

What’s your favourite part about being a model/influencer?

Being able to promote the latest trends in the fashion world.

What advice would you give emerging influencers when it comes to the importance of quality and original content?

Most brands these days prefer real-life images of people, not necessarily from your typical skinny models with long legs. Nowadays, what’s really working well are real people with beautiful curves. That’s what I call being original.

Photographed by @dacshots

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

I appreciate people who put effort into their appearance. However, real beauty is what comes within and nothing can beat that!

Is your family supportive of you being in the modeling industry?

Yes.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

Star in a movie at one point, buy a new house and a boat.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Brain on fire. I also appreciate Hot Fuzz and the Dress Maker.

2. What do you consider beautiful? A good soul.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? We all have dreams. However, I like to take one step at a time.

Photographed by @dacshots

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d…” swim far/deep in the ocean

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? How stubborn I am, guess I’m stubborn about that too.

Photographed by JESSICA CUDA
Model MARONA TANNER
Hair ANDI ASMARO
Makeup MAKEUP BY DREW

How to be a Successful Fashion Designer, If You’re Struggling

Posted on by Gary

There is no exact requirement for you to become a professional fashion designer. However, you have to have the skill to draw, create new designs and sew. Without these three important aspects in your life then it would become difficult to tackle the pressure in the fashion industry. Furthermore, knowledge about the fashion industry is also important. Here are 5 simple ways to help you succeed in the fashion industry.

Knowing your skill, interests, and capabilities

Drawing and foreseeing your artwork in a three-dimensional aspect is not enough to become a good fashion designer. Instead, you should know your capabilities when it comes to sewing, identifying fabrics, and the type of cuts you should do when making your product. If you feel that you lack knowledge about it then going to fashion school is imperative.

Before making any product, be sure to know what you wanted to make. Examples of which are apparel for men, women, formal or casual attire, bridal wear, sports, outdoor, and so on. Try to incorporate your personal likes and refrain from copying other artists ’ designs. Put your personality in your creation. In that way, you are also creating your own trademark and will tell your future consumers how to identify your designs.

Wear your own creation

If you are a novice in the fashion industry, the one thing that you can do to make people notice your creation is by wearing it. You can also save a lot of money or expenses when hiring models to wear your clothing line.

Be professional

You should always think of making a good impression especially when you are meeting some big names “designers, publishers, event organizers and so on”. Being professional at your work informs other people how serious you are. Another aspect of professionalism in the fashion industry is not to be afraid of criticism and accept it wholeheartedly. Do not be discouraged by what other people say about your design because you are being unique instead explain calmly about your design and what you think about it. Also, don’t discriminate against other designs.

Dress to Impress

When you want your work to be noticed as soon as you walk in then always make sure that you are wearing your best products. Be ready to tell the media about your design or the story behind it. It will make your customer become curious about your style and products.

Be confident

When you wear your own product, you are also creating new trends. Walk confidently and positively but not to the extent that you see other designs pitiful. Remember that being shy in the fashion industry does not make you famous. You have to learn how to talk about yourself and your fashion statements.

Creating new trends is not the same as modeling. However, it would be the best way to endorse your product to the public because you will be able to discuss your experience in making the product. It can also help you save a lot of expenses and keeps you unique all the time.

Model Of The Week: Meet The Beautiful Emma Jane Rose Healy

Posted on by Alex

Photo Credit: Jess Clowes Photography

Emma Jane Rose Healy is a lighting technician and stage manager for major films, musicals, operas, ballets, and theatre shows. Modelling was something Emma kind of fell into, almost as a natural progression within her career. She studied Bachelor of Fine Arts at QUT, and has spent many years performing – most recently as a Disney Princess for children’s parties. Photoshoots and videography have always been a big part of her work; she was just used to being behind the camera, not in front.

Her first official photoshoot was actually with a work colleague, Lachlan Cross, who has an extensive background in architectural photography and wanted to try out portrait photography. From there she began freelancing, working with companies such as Sea Skin Australia and Lifeline, and amazing photographers like Jess Clowes Photography. StarCentral Magazine recently caught up with Emma and here’s what went down:

What are your favourite downtime activities?

Picnics, D&D, puzzles, ice skating, drinking jasmine tea, dancing, reading, and archery – just to name a few.

Photo Credit: Sea Skin Australia Shoot by The Edit Suite

How did you start with modelling?

My first official photoshoot was actually with a work colleague, Lachlan Cross, who has an extensive background in architectural photography and wanted to try out portrait photography. He’s incredibly talented, and the shots are still some of my favourite images today. From there I began freelancing, working with companies such as Sea Skin Australia and Lifeline, and amazing photographers like Jess Clowes Photography.

What do you like most about the modelling industry?

The modelling industry has always been a double-edged sword for me. On one hand, I love meeting new crews, making new friends, and seeing an ordinary scenario becoming an extraordinary image. It’s joyful, beautiful, and never the same experience twice. In that respect, modelling is an unparalleled outlet for self-expression, artistry, and confidence.

On the other hand, it’s an industry that is built around appearance, and there can be an incredibly harmful culture developed when people unconsciously tie self-worth to an image. Fortunately, there are many amazing initiatives and brands that actively promote diversity and inclusion (not tokenisation, but representation), despite the fact that we still have a long way to go in achieving an ethically sustainable modelling industry.

What has been the most memorable experience of your life as a model so far?

Well, it’s still in progress, but it would have to be competing in Miss World Australia this year. I’m usually working as a technician, lifting heavy lights in steel caps, and walking the stage in a sequinned gown and heels is very different! And that’s the point.

For me, Miss World Australia is about challenging limitations on female strength and identity – and I’ve talked about this before on my social media. I know my ripped, faded, black work jeans are very different from my photoshoot outfits. But I’m versatile, and steel caps don’t compromise my ability to be feminine. I can be a technician and compete at Miss World Australia. Femininity and strength are not, and have never been, mutually exclusive.

That’s why this experience is so memorable for me, even though it’s still going. It’s been a lot of self-reflection, research, and analysis around how I can use my voice to help build a better world. And ultimately, I want to reinforce a positive, healthy and inclusive environment – whether that be through modelling, Miss World Australia, or as a technician.

Photo Credit: Jess Clowes Photography

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned? This can be about the industry or yourself. Or both!

Be prepared, be positive and be kind!

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

At the end of the day, I think it’s about staying grateful. I’m incredibly blessed with a strong network of family, friends, and colleagues, and I know I’m supported and loved. I get to meet amazing people, have magical experiences, and bring joy to the world around me. I know it sounds a little corny, but I love making the world a brighter place.

Is your family supportive of your career?

I have an incredible relationship with my family, and they support me in everything that I do. I’m honoured to have them by my side.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about making plans by now, it’s that they’re always going to change! I never imagined I would be a published model and a Finalist for Miss World Australia in the middle of a global pandemic, but here we are. In the long run, it’s more important to have strong relationships, a positive outlook, and a determined attitude. As long as I maintain those, I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Photo Credit: Jess Clowes Photography

The “Lightning Fast” Round:

Last good movie I’ve seen: The Dressmaker.

What do you consider beautiful and why? I believe beauty is a matter of perception, and the best way to sum it up is: “Comparing women is like holding a flower to fairy lights – both are beautiful yet neither are alike”.

What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Acrobatics training.

Complete this sentence: If I had no fear, I’d be… an actor!

What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? My hair – it received incessant teasing when I was younger, and I wanted to dye it blonde! I’m forever grateful my mother stopped me, as now I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Photo Credit: Jess Clowes Photography

5 Simple Tips That’ll Give You Clearer Skin… For Essentially FREE

Posted on by Krissy Anderson

It’s important to take care of yourself. And one way of taking care of yourself is to take care of your skin. The old saying goes, “if you look good, you feel good.” But unfortunately, many of the products that are touted as being good for the skin are expensive, making establishing a skincare regimen difficult. But the good news is, there are things you can do – and not do – that will help you improve the condition of your skin without spending a small fortune on various creams and lotions.

Read on for some tips on how to get clear skin for essentially free.

Rinse Your Face Using Cold Water

Using cold water instead of hot water to rinse your face has certain benefits. Cold water can help to refresh your skin and reduce inflammation, but it can also reduce any puffiness and helps to tighten your skin. An added bonus is that the temperature of the water can help to wake you up first thing in the morning.

Go Without Makeup

The standard for beauty seems to dictate that women ought to wear makeup as often as is possible, but it’s also important to occasionally have a few makeup-free days to allow your skin the space it needs to breathe and regenerate. And when you do wear makeup, always make sure to completely rinse it off at the end of the day, so it doesn’t compact and clog your pores.

Don’t Touch Your Face

This one should be easy enough to follow in the time of COVID-19. Keep your hands away from your face as much as possible, as your hands are covered in bacteria that can cause breakouts, or worse. And if you find that you must touch your face, wash your hands first.

Clean Makeup Utensils

It may seem obvious, but if you let your makeup brushes go too long in between cleaning, they will provide a safe haven for bacteria, oil, and other pieces of cellular debris that may cause irritation or infection if repeatedly brushed over your skin.

Take Appropriate Caution When You Sleep

If possible, change your pillowcase as often as you change your sheets, since the fabric can trap dirt and oil, potentially causing irritation and inflammation. And if changing your pillowcase isn’t a possibility, try to remain sleeping on your back, so as not to expose your face to the potential skin blemish dangers of your pillowcase.

A Final Word

Taking care of your skin is important. And it sounds like it has the potential to be complicated, having to use a bunch of fancy soaps, creams, and lotions, but really, the secret to clearer skin is taking care of not only your skin itself, but what comes in contact with your skin, like bedding, makeup utensils, and your hands. If you are intentional about the products you use, how frequently – or infrequently – you use them, and the state in which they’re kept, you’re well on your way to having clear skin for free.

Models 101: Five Ways To Kickstart Your Modeling Career

Posted on by Gary

Pursuing the modeling dream is never an easy undertaking. The road towards the top will be filled with challenges, with many people giving up before they reach the reality of what they have always dreamed of. Whether you would like to pursue a career in modeling, you will be facing stiff competition. In some instances, you will end up being frustrated and with low confidence. With this in mind, keep on reading and learn from some of the tips that we will be sharing which will help you in reaching your dream of becoming a successful model one day.

Undergo extensive training

Before you even start with auditions and going to casting calls, the first thing that you have to do is to undergo extensive training in modeling. There are some schools offering formal training to those who would like to harness their skills. Even at home, you can practice with the help of online modules and tutorials. This will help you to be familiar with the various modelling techniques.

Create a kickass portfolio

This is specifically the case for those who have big dreams to have a career in modeling. This will serve as your resume. Your portfolio will demonstrate how you look in front of the camera and will make it easier for agents to assess whether they should accept you or not. It should be made in such a way that it will be able to highlight what you can do and offer. This will be a tool for marketing yourself, so make sure that it will be convincing enough.

Find a reputable agency

You should also exert effort in finding a reputable talent agency. The agent will make it easier for you to land gigs in the future. Their extensive network will also increase the likelihood of creating a name for yourself. You just have to make sure that you are working with a legitimate agent.

Go to casting calls

This is another important thing if you want to have a successful modeling career. Be proactive in looking for potential auditions. Before auditioning, make sure that you are fully prepared. Get enough rest, and as it has been earlier pointed out, practice so that you can deliver an impressive performance.

Never Lose Hope

This is perhaps the best to keep in mind as you pursue your modeling dream. Rejection is part of the game, which will make you frustrated. This, however, should not be areas on to give up. If you fail once, ask yourself what happened and use this as a launchpad to be better. Learn from your past mistakes. Use it as a motivation to be better.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Meet The Beautiful Janaya Alice Reimers

Posted on by Krissy Anderson

Janaya Alice Reimers is an ambitious, very driven model who’s prepared to do whatever it takes to follow her dreams. She cares about the environment and she’s obsessed with keeping herself fit and healthy. Her friends describe her as someone genuine with a happy soul and a kind heart.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Janaya and here’s what went down:

How were you actually ‘discovered’? A chance encounter on the street? Audition?

I just took a chance; I was regularly contacted through social media which I normally ignored until one day I decided to reply back; this led me into modelling and here I am today at 18 heading to the Miss Australia Pageants 2021.

What are your favourite down time activities?

That is easy, without question it’s going to the gym and beach walks.

How did you start with modelling?

I always loved watching shows like America’s Top Model and from there I developed my passion for modelling.

What do you like most about the modelling industry?

The fashion and getting to meet new people and making life long friends.

The downside to being a model?

Unpredictable and long hours.

What has been the most memorable experience of your life as a model so far?

Helping a new start-up business in Melbourne as their Brand Ambassador; it was extremely rewarding to support them and connect to the community.

I’m guessing you’ve been in the industry for a few years now, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned. This can be about the industry or about yourself. Or both!

Everyone has individual qualities and being different is okay.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

My mum keeps me grounded by telling me the hard truths.

Is your family supportive of your career?

My family is my greatest supporter, they’re always encouraging me to go outside of my comfort zone.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

Ultimately I just want to live a happy life, spend time with the people I love, and of course, get a Pomeranian.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen – Safe Haven.
2. What do you consider beautiful and why? – Women Empowering Women because it is beauty from within.
3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? – Skydive.
4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d be…” living and working in Rome.
5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? – I find it hard to say no.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Meet The Beautiful Cassandra Van Zeyl

Posted on by Alex

Cassandra Van Zeyl has been a passionate primary school teacher for six years, however, she has been working with children for more than fourteen years. She has been a swimming instructor, before and after school care coordinator, and an integration aid. She got her foot in the modelling industry after being scouted by BGM models through Facebook. After that, the rest you can say is history. Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Cassandra and here’s what went down:

How were you actually ‘discovered’? Chance encounter on the street? Audition?

I was scouted by BGM models through Facebook and had a successful interview at a prestigious hotel in Melbourne. I was confident walking into this interview because I knew that BGM represented curvaceous women. I felt very empowered and accepted in this type of environment. My mantra has always been his should be highlighted and not hidden.

What are your favourite down time activities?

Swimming at the local pool.
Hosting fundraising cocktail events/Gala Balls
Getting involved in local community events
Singing
Dancing
Competing in pageants in Australia ( eg. Miss World Australia / Miss Australia Pageants).

How did you start with modelling?

My beautiful mother was extremely well known in the modelling world and used to model for Vivian’s. I couldn’t believe it when BGM merged with Vivian’s. It was such a coincidence. I started modelling because I knew I had unique energy and a confident personality. I felt that I could offer the modelling world a fresh perspective and as a curvy modelling ambassador, I wanted to remind all woman that no matter what your size, you can do what you put your mind to. My mother was my inspiration and now I help other women feel comfortable and happy in the skin they’re in. My mother was a size eight and I’m a size twelve and whether you are a smaller or bigger size, you have the same opportunity to succeed. Size does not determine your success.

What do you like most about the modelling industry?

I love the forever friendships you form and the connections you make through modelling opportunities. It’s such a diverse industry and I am absolutely in love with fashion and how modelling can help you express your emotions in ways you didn’t think you could. It’s such a powerful industry and you can complexly immerse yourself in this world and the incredible amount of confidence that comes from putting yourself out there and presenting multiple challenges is mind-blowing. I surprise myself daily when put under pressure to perform and I think failure is a big part of success.

The downside to being a model?

At times social media can portray the perfect body type and this can have a dramatically negative impact on mental health. There shouldn’t be the ‘perfect’ body type. There are just simply different body types. Why should we feel pressure to conform? You create your own reality and create your own idea of perfection. Perfection and beauty are in the eyes of the beholder.

What has been the most memorable experience of your life as a model so far?

My very first modelling shoot was absolutely fantastic and I remember the photographer saying you should be modelling as a cover girl for ‘forever new. I often hear this said a lot. I have been asked multiple times about being at Home and Away. This is an opportunity in the future that I look forward to pursuing.

I’m guessing you’ve been in the industry for a few years now, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned. This can be about the industry or about yourself. Or both!

Don’t compare yourself to anyone! Love yourself and embrace what makes you different because this is how you shine.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

My first priority has been and will always be my family. I love my core values and I wouldn’t compromise these to fit anybody’s expectations.

Is your family supportive of your career?

My mother is extremely proud of all my achievements. I have a very supportive family and feel very blessed.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

I was thinking of opening my own business as a youth mentor or remain in the Department of Education. I look forward to seeing what my future holds. I will always be working with children though. There may be an opportunity for me to enter into news reporting.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Unhinged.
2. What do you consider beautiful and why? The ocean – Calms the soul.
3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Travel to Europe.
4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d be…” Scuba diving with sharks.
5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? Being a very forgiving person.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Meet The Beautiful Shaye Pramee

Posted on by Gary

Shaye Pramee is a 28-year-old model who was originally from Bangladesh and raised in New Zealand. She currently works as a banker in ANZ. She was a finalist at Miss World 2019 and Miss World state finals 2020/21. She’s currently competing at the Miss Australia 2020 State Finals. Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Shaye to discuss her journey in the modelling industry and here’s what went down:

How were you actually ‘discovered?’

Instagram.

What are your favourite downtime activities?

I love reading, dancing, singing and spending time with family and friends.

How did you start with modelling?

I have done pageants in the past but I wish to progress my career in modelling.

What do you like most about the modelling industry?

I love the confidence it brings in others as well as how much it inspires others.

The downside to being a model?

Beauty Standards.

What has been the most memorable experience of your life as a model so far?

Being a finalist at the Miss World 2019 and Miss World Australia State Finals 2020/21 pageant as well as competing for the Miss Australia 2020 State Finals.

I’m guessing you’ve been in the industry for a few years now, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned. This can be about the industry or about yourself. Or both!

I gained confidence and learned to be brave enough even though I don’t meet the standard height requirement – I still got the opportunity to do photoshoots.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

Self-love and self-care.

Is your family supportive of your career?

Yes, they are. I am blessed to have such an amazing family.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

I would like to start my own business and hopefully win the title for Miss Australia so I can be inspirational and make a difference.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: The Departed.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why? Sunrise early morning with a view of the ocean or beach.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Travel the world.

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d be…” Powerful.

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? How random and weird I am.

Featured Event Of The Month: Lux Cruise Fashion Show

Posted on by mikeadmin

What: Lux is hosting an exclusive fashion show on April 30 and this is an event that’s not to be missed!

The one-of-a-kind fashion extravaganza will include bubbly and canapes followed by an epic neon-themed fashion show inspired by Victoria’s Secret. There will also be a red carpet and media wall set against an amazing backdrop of a luxury boat. We invite you to join us on this exclusive cruise fashion show where fashionistas and socialites can mingle and enjoy the incredible atmosphere created by the Lux team.

Dress code: Neon theme

Limited spots are available for this one-of-a-kind cruise fashion show that you don’t want to miss out on!

Where: Star City Casino Wharf (Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW 2009)

When: Friday, 30 April 2021 (7:00 pm – 11:00 pm AEST)

Tickets: You can purchase tickets via this link

Models To Watch Out For In 2021: Meet The Beautiful Holly MacAlpine

Posted on by Gary

Holly MacAlpine was 13 years old when she was first ‘discovered’. She was at Manly Wharf at one stage and there was a youth modelling competition being run and televised. She was asked to get involved and it was there that she got her first taste of being on stage and walking for an audience. Nothing ever really came of that day, but that was the experience that got her thinking about modelling as something more than Australia’s Next Top Model, as something real and worthwhile that she could do. Fast forward to today and she has now been in the modelling industry for over 7 years.

StarCentral Magazine recently caught up with Holly to discuss her journey in the industry and here’s what went down:

How did you start with modelling?

I started modelling formally in 2014, signing with THE.MGMT for what would be a 4-year long contract. The agency took me under their wing and helped me find my niche in the market, developing my own look and style.

What do you like most about the modelling industry?

I love the collaborative nature of modelling, being a part of a creative team and helping amazing designers and artists realise their vision.

The downside to being a model?

I think that being a part of the modelling industry from such a young age made me overly aware of my outward appearance, placing too much importance on how I look rather than how I felt or what I thought. I think that this is something all women go through, but especially those within the modelling and entertainment industries, and I am still working on loving my inner and outer self unconditionally every day.

What has been the most memorable experience of your life as a model so far?

I was a part of a fashion show at the Star, paying tribute to the supermodels throughout the ages including everyone from Kate Moss to Cindy Crawford. I got to play the role of Jerry Hall and embody her on the runway as I wore a vintage Thierry Mugler dress. This was definitely a stand-out experience for me.

I’m guessing you’ve been in the industry for a few years now, what has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned. This can be about the industry or about yourself. Or both!

Something that this industry has taught me is to never let anyone other than yourself decide your worth for you. Sometimes you won’t be the right fit for a role or campaign, and other times you’ll be perfect. But as long as you are your most authentic self, what is meant for you will be yours and you should never try to change yourself just to fit into someone else’s mould.

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

I think that it is so important to have goals and interests outside of the industry. Things like the gym, my degree, and my family and friends remind me daily of what is truly important.

What are your favourite downtime activities?

I am an absolute Northern Beaches baby, if I have a day off then you will find me down at the beach, being in the salt and sun is a huge part of my identity. I also love going to the gym. My partner is a personal trainer and is beginning his body-building journey, so the gym is a place that we bond and spend quality time together.

Is your family supportive of your career?

My family is very supportive even though they don’t understand it. My parents definitely had mixed feelings about the modelling industry when I first started, as they had heard the worst about it in the media, and I was so young at the time. But now they see how happy it makes me, and how strong of a woman it has helped me become.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

I recently completed my degree in journalism and non-fiction writing. Ideally, this year will consist of lots of freelance writing and travel. My partner and I would love to move overseas for a couple of months if COVID-19 lets it happen.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: I recently rewatched Princess Monoke, one of the Studio Ghibli animated films. I love Studio Ghibli for a feel-good, relaxing night.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why? ‘Beauty’ is entirely subjective and forever changing, I think that the only thing that is considered universally beautiful is the human capacity to love and care for one another.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? There are so many things that I haven’t done yet, and that I’m excited to do in the future! I definitely look forward to competing in Miss Universe at some point in the next couple of years. I feel that that experience will be a big step in my journey.

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d be…” travelling the world with no sign of coming home soon, I think that we all have a sense of fear and responsibility around doing the “correct” thing, going to university, getting a job, buying a house, etc… I think that I would feel less tied to that narrative if I had no fear.

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? I would have to say how emotional I am, whilst this can often be a flaw, I also think that how emotional I am helps me empathise with others and grow stronger relationships. I wouldn’t trade my personality for anything.