Kai

Agencies

Mother Agency (MA): Lang Models

Los Angeles: Nomad MGMT

Answers to Q&A

Why did you want to become a model?

Modeling was never something I had ever seriously considered or even desired to pursue. But, after being approached several times, the opportunity to sign presented itself to me. It wasn’t something I had a goal in mind for but the prospect of signing to an agency seemed like an intriguing avenue of new experiences, particularly because of my love for photography.

The chance to model wasn’t just about the photoshoots or fashion, although that does come with it. I also saw it as a chance to get to know the industry and meet and learn from those on that side of the commercial world. I figured that it would be the perfect chance to experience the intricacies of the modeling industry and also work with professional photographers. Even just for the new experience, I knew I’d be able to interact with and learn from the photographers for my own creative outlet in photography.

My decision to sign with an agency was less about pursuing a modeling career and more about the experience itself. I’m always down to learn and experience new things and it seemed like the perfect chance to try something new and kind of just see where it goes.

What makes you special?

I’d have to say my particular love for meeting new people and creating new relationships. I find a lot of joy in getting to know a wide variety of individuals, each with their unique personalities and backgrounds. The experience of interacting with others offers an abundance of learning and invaluable insights to gain. I find that learning from each person and their story allows me to broaden and enrich my own perspective and develop my capacity to build meaningful relationships with others. It’s the ability to not just meet but connect with others that I believe sets me apart.

In this particular industry, I’d say my non-conventional look and hair type. I get told quite often that I look mixed when in reality I am ethnically fully Chinese. I also have naturally thick and curly black hair which is uncommon for those of Asian heritage. The explanation that was given to me by my mother is that my ancestry comes from Manchuria and the minor ethnic group Manchu of northern Asia that came down south and conquered China in the 17th century. So while I am not Han Chinese, I am Chinese just of a more complex origin.

What are you passionate about?

Over the last year, something I’ve gotten quite passionate about is making coffee and latte art. Since acquiring my first espresso machine about 2 years ago, I’ve become quite content with the quality of my espresso-based drinks and I’ve started working as a barista at a cafe near my house. Being able to use the commercial espresso machine has allowed my skills as a barista to develop and my latte art to get really quite elegant. I’m just now starting to work on my tulips and they’re starting to shape beautifully. I greatly enjoy the process of coffee making and also love being able to make coffee shop-level coffee at home for myself and my friends.

What are two interesting things about you?

I have a twin brother and I was born with one kidney.

If you could give an aspiring model any advice, what would it be?

To any aspiring model, I’d say to take it slow. A lot of people get so eager about the prospect of modeling that they speed through decisions that they should be making with more care. There are two things I’d say here.

First, you do not have to sign with the first agency that approaches you. If an agency scout is interested in you, chances are that other agencies will also be. Take your time and do some research. Research the agency the scout approached you from and also research the most reputable agencies in your area. Maybe submit applications to other agencies. 

Second, make sure you know what terms you are agreeing to in a modeling contract. Get some advice from a friend in the modeling industry. Consult someone you know with law experience. Do some research about standard contract terms in the scenario. Just make sure you’re not careless about signing anything.