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Model insider

We interviewed International Model Roya Athina to provide some insight into what it means to be a model and what it's like working in the fashion industry from a young age. 

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Already with five years of experience at the age of twenty, Athina discusses her current mentality and past experiences which shaped her career.

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in modelling, and how did you get started in the industry?

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I got scouted on the street by my first agency when I was fourteen years old, and signed my first modelling contract just before my fifteenth birthday. At that time, I was considering modelling as a hobby that allowed me to make some extra money while I was studying for my GCSE exams. However, it progressed a lot faster than anticipated, and I walked my first shows at London Fashion Week a few weeks later. 

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2. Can you share some highlights or memorable experiences from your modelling career so far?

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I mean, my shows at London fashion Week are always a highlight and I'm proud of my work for some big brands, however travelling on contracts has to be my favourite part of the job. My favourite contract so far has got to be the three months that I worked in Shanghai last summer, where I not only worked every day, but I also made amazing connections and friends for life.

 

3. How do you maintain your physical and mental well-being while navigating the demands of the fashion industry?

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In relation to my mental well-being, it's important to remember how subjective the concept of beauty is, and be resilient to constructive criticism. A job is a job, and any criticism in relation to my looks is purely part of work, so I remind myself not to take rejection too personally. In terms of my physical health, I don't have a strict diet or workout routine, I just try to eat healthily and workout a few times per week. Pilates and going on hikes are my favourite ways to get some exercise, you don't always need access to a gym to workout.

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4. What are some misconceptions people often have about the modelling profession, and how do you address them?

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People often ask me about my diet, and have the misconception that "Models don't eat", and funnily enough, the question usually gets brought up as I'm actively eating. People seem to use it as a conversation starter in order to find out my 'real diet', but it can sometimes come across as insulting, as if to say that I'm only signed because I'm starving myself (I guarantee is not the case). I remember one instance, when I was at a friend's birthday dinner and I was deciding between ordering a steak or a salad, and it became a whole topic of conversation. It concluded with "she doesn't know because she doesn't actually eat". Anyway, I ordered both out of spite (and I was hungry too).

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5. Can you describe your typical preparation process for a fashion shoot or a runway show?

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The most important thing for me is sleep, I always try and sleep really well the night before a shoot, event or show. Sometimes I'll be working for 12+ hours in a day or travelling for work, so I try and keep my sleep schedule as regular as possible. Physically speaking, I just do my usual skincare routine and a sheet mask.

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6. What advice would you give to aspiring models who are looking to break into the industry?

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Get experience wherever you can! Try to build a portfolio and personal brand for yourself as this is what agencies and clients look for. Also, try and figure out which part of modelling appeals to you, would you prefer to work as a commercial model or a runway model? Or Both!

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7. What are some challenges you've faced as an international model, and how have you overcome them?

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A challenge that I still face is being able to adapt quickly, especially when travelling on contracts. It can be hard to ground yourself when thrown into a new environment, often with a language barrier, and it used to take me months to feel at home while working and living abroad. I more or less overcame this with time and experience, however talking to people helped me a lot. Don't be afraid to ask for help or advice, especially as a solo traveller!

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