Dana
Agencies
Mother Agency (MA): morgan model management
Answers to Q&A
What inspired you to become a model?
I first got exposed to modelling when I was in elementary school watching America’s Next Top Model with my older sister. My interest grew deeper when I started watching the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows and I began practicing my runway walk, influenced by Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks and Candice Swanepoel. I was intrigued by the beautiful chaos, extravagance, creativity and the versatility of it all. It was like bringing a vision to life. From then on, I became fascinated with self-expression through beauty and fashion. I loved experimenting with different outfits, hairstyles and makeup, and recreating looks that I saw on social media.
Growing up, I was often encouraged to become a model because I was tall and slim but I never thought that I had what it takes to actually get signed to an agency. When I was 20, I started applying to several agencies but never had any luck with responses. I got to the point where I had accepted that modelling probably wasn’t meant to be a part of my life journey. However, all of that changed when my mentor and dear friend sent me the link to apply to Morgan Model Management. I was contemplating whether or not to apply because I felt like I probably wouldn’t have been accepted anyway, but I ended up submitting my photos for consideration because you never know if you don’t try. This time, I actually got a response and I met with Janelle before officially signing with Morgan. I guess the moral of this story is (as cliché as it sounds) never give up. Being in this industry now is so surreal, and I am immensely grateful to have the opportunity to experience the life I had always dreamed about as a little girl.
What are you most excited about when it comes to modeling?
I am so excited to get to meet and work with so many wonderful people. Being a part of this industry and getting to work with so many talented creatives is truly inspiring. Also, I’m excited to see new versions of myself come to life at every shoot/show. I’m naturally a shy person so I am looking forward to stepping out of my comfort zone and embodying different personas to attain artistic visions.
Can you share some advice you have for models wanting to get into the industry?
I would say it’s important to love yourself first and practice self-care. How you feel internally will show on the outside in both how you treat yourself and others. You were divinely created so always try to tap into your uniqueness to stand out and authentically connect with other people. Everything is already within you so always believe in yourself.
Also, rejection is just redirection and everything happens for a reason. Just because you got turned down by an agency or for a modelling job, that doesn’t mean you don’t have what it takes to succeed. What is meant for you will always find you, all in divine timing.
Finally, don’t give up. I’m learning that modelling is a skill that you continuously build upon by practicing and working hard to master your craft. Not everything is going to be smooth sailing, but always try to approach each experience as an opportunity to learn and as inspiration for growth.
Share a fun fact about yourself!
I’m very into astrology! It’s a really good way for me to learn and understand myself and other people, and try to determine my life purpose so that I can always aspire to be the best version of myself. I also love journaling and just writing to organize my thoughts. I’m sentimental so I love being able to reflect on every experience and look back to see how far I’ve come.