Why did you decide to become a model and how did you start ?

I started modeling three years ago. I was scouted by one of the modeling agencies in London (UK) and decided to give it a try. I signed an exclusive contract with Mission Models and started to gain more and more experience and build my portfolio.

One of the best memories from that period was a fashion shoot with a London based photographer Vijay Jethwa who has become really popular now. He is very talented, has a great eye and a real passion for photography. I also still remember my first fashion show which was held in Studio Valbonne. It was a charity show raising money for UNICEF and it featured emerging London designers like Harold Bernard and Romero Bryan. There were many celebrity guests, press and photographers (even Kate Moss was invited to the show). It was a very successful event and I was very lucky to be part of it.

How has your life changed after you got involved?

First of all, my life became more interesting. Fashion industry is an amazing environment to work in. It always changes and it's always exciting. I love its energy and creativity. Being a model allowed me to travel around the world and see a lot of places that I wouldn't normally visit.

On a personal level, I had to become more organized and disciplined, started watching what I eat and exercise regularly. Keeping fit and making sure you always look your best is a part of being a model. I became more open to people and more adaptable. You work with different group of people on every project, so you need to learn how to get along with everybody.

Who influences you?

My biggest influence is a Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho. I read all his books and I really admire his life philosophy, experience, determination and positive attitude. I always try to follow his advice and search for my own path in life. I try not to follow the crowd and always be myself.

I admire people who became successful and who never lost their own style, like Coco Chanel, Kate Moss, Penelope Cruz.

What was the hardest challenge for you?

In the beginning it was hard to deal with being rejected at the castings and not always getting what I wanted to get. But you learn how to deal with it and it doesn't really affect you anymore.

Every “No” brings you one step closer to a “Yes'..

What is your favorite part about being a model? What are your likes and dislikes?

There are definitely more good then bad sides about being a model. As I said before, it's a very interesting industry, with lots of talented and creative people around. Your days are never the same, you keep working on different projects, everything always changes and is constantly moving forward. It suits my personality.

On the other hand, it's also a very demanding job that requires a lot of self-discipline and tough skin. You need to learn how to deal with being rejected and you compete with a lot of people on daily basis. Having strong values and believing in yourself helps a lot.

What types of assignments are you attracted to most?

I love doing fashion shows. Wearing the latest designs, amazing makeup and hair styles. There is such a great busy atmosphere before the shows and walking the catwalk is a lot of fun. It a great opportunity to meet other models too.

What are your most memorable modeling experiences? It could be good or bad...

One of the best experiences so far was taking part in a World Supermodel Pageant in Australia. I spent an amazing week in Surfers Paradise, in a beautiful apartment overlooking the beach. There was a lot of cocktail parties and press events we took part in. We had photo shoots with Fashion TV and modeled beautiful Heels in Hollywood dresses.
I haven't had many bad experiences so far. I wish I received all the photos and videos that I took part in. Sometime there is a lack of communication after the project is done and not everyone keeps their promises. But fortunately it doesn't happen very often.

What would bring a smile to your face?

A Vogue cover or a fashion spread in one of top magazines. A shopping trip to Tokyo. Meeting Mario Testino. Having my own fashion line.

What would be your "dream job" in life?

Being a model is a dream job for me now. I really enjoy what I do and I wouldn't change it for anything else.

What projects are you currently working on and what are your future plans?

I have just arrived in Toronto and I'm currently looking for an agency to represent me in North America. I'm having a couple of fashion photo shoots next week and taking part in Joy Couture Fall Collection fashion show. There is a photo exhibition showcasing me as a model planned for early October. It will take place in Monsoon Cafe in Warsaw (Poland). I would like to visit New York next year.

What's the best advice ever given to you?

To remain humble. To be persistent and never give up. To remember that we only live once...

What are some Do's and Don'ts in the business that you have learned?

Be punctual, professional, polite. Don't believe in everything that people tell you, trust your own intuition. Do work hard and don't expect that you will become successful overnight. Don't compare yourself to others, don't gossip, don't lie. Always give 100% in everything you do and go an extra mile. Don't forget who you are and what's important for you in life.

What sort of tips or advice would you give somebody who is looking to start modeling?

You must really want it, have a lot of self-confidence and self-discipline. You must be very determined and have your own goal. Don't wait for someone to discover you. Go out there and start promoting yourself. There is so much competition in this industry that you have to work on improving yourself all the time. And in Paulo Coelho words: “Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”

What are the “top qualities” for you to be a model?

Looks, personality, determination to succeed, being yourself and not trying to imitate anyone else, having an open mind and ability to learn, being flexible and willing to commit yourself. It's although important to be friendly and have good people skills. You need to work hard and be positive, you never know what's around the corner...

Thank you .
We've enjoyed talking to you.

This exclusive interview is courtesy of Actress/Model Eva Fydrych.
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