Breaking Barriers: Sonja's Journey to Success as a 5'5" Model in the Fashion Industry

BRAND: REVLON JAPAN

Sonja's rise in the fashion industry proves that success isn't determined by the traditional standards of height. Standing at 5'5", she has defied expectations and built an impressive career, collaborating with some of the most prestigious brands globally. In an exclusive conversation with Models of Canada, Sonja shared her inspiring journey, from overcoming early challenges as a shorter model to carving out a strong presence in the competitive fashion world.

We were also fortunate enough to speak with Sonja’s agent, Christopher Massardo, who offered valuable insight into how the team helped shape and maintain Sonja’s unique brand identity. Together, Sonja and her team have demonstrated that determination, strategy, and a clear vision are key to breaking through barriers.

Models of Canada: Sonja, you've proven that height isn't a barrier to success in modeling. Can you tell us about your journey into the industry and how you overcame initial challenges as a 5'5" model?

Sonja: When I first started modelling, being 5'5" was definitely a challenge. Many people doubted that I could go far in an industry where height is traditionally so important. In the beginning, I kept my aspirations private and didn’t share them with anyone. Instead, I focused on building my own path. 

When I first arrived in Asia, my portfolio was minimal, and my height wasn’t what the industry typically preferred. I remember facing some skepticism from clients who were used to seeing a typical height or even race for models. I had to show them that my potential wasn’t limited by those physical standards.

So, I focused on what I could control: my professionalism, my adaptability, and my work ethic. Since I didn’t have formal training, I relied on observation and practice. I spent a lot of time studying the seasoned models around me. I watched how they posed, how they moved, and how they expressed emotion through their body language. I tried to incorporate those techniques into my own poses, adapting them to fit my own style and strengths. 

Another major challenge I faced was the language barrier. I didn’t have a translator, but I quickly learned to pay attention to non-verbal cues and body language to understand the client’s needs. Whether it was a gesture, a change in the photographer’s tone, or a look from the stylist, I became very attuned to these signals. That helped me stay in line with the shoot and deliver what was needed, even without words.

Also, modelling without my glasses was another hurdle. I’m very short-sighted and allergic to contact lenses. But I adapted by relying on my instincts and focusing on my connection with the camera. In a way, it gave me confidence because I was able to focus on myself rather than the people around me. It taught me to trust my intuition more, rather than overthinking my movements.

Models of Canada: Sonja, what advice would you give to aspiring models who might be concerned about not meeting the traditional height requirements for the industry?

1. Focus on what makes you unique. When I started, I was told that being 5'5" would hold me back, but I realized that the industry is evolving, and there’s room for all kinds of models. Your value as a model is about more than just measurements—it's about your energy, your story, and how you connect with the camera.

2. Signing with an agency is only the beginning. Your agency can help open doors, but it’s up to you to keep pushing, stay dedicated, and continue working hard. Consistency, professionalism, and showing up every day will set you apart.

3. Always be kind to everyone. People remember how you make them feel, and kindness has a way of creating opportunities when you least expect it. A reputation for being kind and easy to work with can create opportunities that talent alone sometimes can't.

Models of Canada: What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far, and how has being 5'5" shaped your experience as a model?

Sonja: The most rewarding part of my career so far has definitely been the connections I’ve made with people from every part of the industry. Through modeling, I’ve had the privilege of working with talented photographers, makeup artists, designers, and fellow models. Every collaboration has taught me something valuable, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to build a network of brilliant individuals who have shaped my journey.

Having the opportunity to work internationally has been transformative in ways I had never anticipated. Without formal modeling training and being 5'5" meant I had to work harder to prove myself and learn quickly. With many back-to-back international contracts, I was thrown into completely new work environments and living conditions every 2-3 months. By observing seasoned models in each country, I picked up their quick posing skills and professionalism. It was a steep learning curve, but it pushed me to develop fast. I learned how to thrive in diverse environments and make the most of every opportunity, no matter how unfamiliar it felt at first. As a result, I became incredibly adaptable.

Models of Canada: You've worked with some of the top brands in the industry. Can you share a memorable experience from one of your shoots or campaigns that really stood out to you?

Sonja: One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had was working on an APAC release campaign with Laneige. They built an entire Greek-inspired set from the ground up, as if we were filming a movie. There were over 50 people on set, and I was the only model. It was my first time working outside of a normal studio setting, and the scale of it really blew me away. The attention to detail in creating the set, the collaboration between so many people from around the world and different areas of expertise, and the sheer amount of coordination it took to pull everything together was incredible.

The experience taught me a lot about the complexity of large-scale productions and made me appreciate just how much effort goes into every aspect of a campaign. It was a humbling experience and one that really opened my eyes to the larger side of the industry.

Models of Canada: What key decisions or strategies do you believe are crucial for maintaining your competitive long-term positioning in the Asian market?

Sonja: As an Asian model competing in the Asian market, I faced the challenge of competing and standing out in a sea of local models that shared similar profiles, unlike my colleagues who were usually Caucasian looking. It was important for me to identify what would set me apart. Coming from the West, I’ve always had a more open-minded approach to modeling, and that’s been a big part of what sets me apart in the Asian market. While many follow more traditional poses and approaches, I’m not afraid to incorporate more creative or unconventional elements into my shoots. My ability to blend different cultural influences allows me to bring fresh perspectives to the table.

Models of Canada: How have your agents and team helped in aligning you with the right clientele and ensuring you have a consistent strong presence?

Sonja: My mother agent and international agents have been absolutely crucial in helping me maintain a strong and consistent presence in the industry. They’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes to connect me with a variety of opportunities, ensuring that I’m aligned with the right clientele. 

Even when I’m in different time zones, my mother agent sets up Zoom calls and makes sure I’m well-prepared for every important meeting or casting. 

Their belief in me has truly made a difference, and it’s given me the confidence and support I needed to keep pushing forward in this career. They’ve not only been my advocates but also my biggest cheerleaders, and that’s been invaluable in helping me navigate this competitive industry.

Models of Canada: Do you think the fashion industry’s view on height is shifting? If so, how has it impacted your work and the opportunities available to you?

Sonja: Yes! There’s been a significant movement towards embracing diversity, which includes more models who don’t fit the traditional standards of height. This opens doors for people who may have been overlooked in the past, and it's allowing for a wider range of beauty to be represented.

I’m really grateful to have started my career during this new era of opportunity. The change in perspective has not only broadened my own horizons, but it has also given me the chance to expand my reach and influence internationally. It’s exciting to see how the industry is evolving, and I feel very lucky to be a part of it.

Models of Canada: Working in Asia over the last little bit must have come with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. How have you managed to stay focused and maintain your drive?

Sonja: I had actually been in Asia for 1.5 years continuously before taking a brief break. After a short rest, I went back and have been here for past 6 months, and my international journey shows no signs of slowing down. I've recently signed with new agencies that range from South Africa to the US, so I’m continuing to expand my reach globally. 

Having been in the industry for a while now, I’m much more confident in navigating its challenges. This time around, I’ve had the privilege of working with some major brands, and my portfolio has reached new heights I never thought possible.

With each new, larger opportunity, I stay focused and continue to put in the hard work that has brought me this far. It’s all about staying grounded and focused on the bigger picture, while embracing the growth that comes with every journey and success.

Models of Canada: In addition to your modeling work, what other aspects of the industry do you enjoy exploring, or perhaps avenues outside of the industry?

Sonja: In addition to modeling, I still create YouTube vlogs on my channel (@misssoskates) where I document all my travels, behind-the-scenes moments from shoots, and the unique experiences I have in each place I visit. 

I’ve had some unforgettable experiences, from visiting an onsen and trying an animal womb skewer in Japan, to devouring a scorpion and enjoying an incredibly affordable full-body massage in Thailand.

I also love exploring how different cultures celebrate holidays like Christmas or Chinese New Year. It’s fascinating to see the local traditions and festivities, and I try to immerse myself as much as possible. These experiences not only make my travels more memorable, but they also help me connect with the places I work in, making each country feel like home in its own way.

Models of Canada: How do you balance staying true to yourself and keeping up with the demands of clients and the ever-changing world of fashion?

Sonja: I constantly remind myself of how far I've come and keep my eyes on the future—there’s still so much to achieve! I also stay up to date on the latest modelling trends and understand the specific needs of each market. I continually refine my posing techniques and stay adaptable to new styles, which allows me to meet client demands while bringing my own unique energy to each project.

Models of Canada: What’s next for you in your modeling career? Are there any specific goals or projects you're particularly excited about?

Sonja: I’ll soon be headed to the US, which I’m really stoked about! I’m excited about connecting with Western brands and industry professionals, learning from their different approaches. Each market has its own nuances, and I’m eager to immerse myself in the Western modeling scene while bringing my own individuality to their sets.

Models of Canada: We also had the pleasure of chatting with Sonja’s mother agent in Toronto, Ontario Christopher Massardo.

Models of Canada: Christopher, how did your team strategically craft and execute Sonja's brand identity to align her with top industry-leading brands, and what key decisions or approaches were crucial in positioning her for such impressive success in the competitive fashion world?

Christopher Massardo: The most important items to always keep in mind for the model is their look, their book and their goals. A model like Sonja has the potential to attract major beauty brands, but we always want to make the model as versatile as possible to ensure they have the best chance for a wide variety of clients responding positively. A strong portfolio will always grab the clients attention, but ultimately the impression made by the model during a casting or through a self tape is what will ensure the client confirms them. Sonja always looks stunning in pictures, but at a casting or in a meeting she understands how to flip the business-mode switch on right away. Her confidence in herself and how she projects that confidence at a casting is very important. When she is in a room, even if it's for 10 minutes with a casting director, she has to make the room hers.

For any model, you want to ensure your agent/agency has a thorough understanding of the markets your look has potential to work in. If you're somebody brand new to the industry and you're meeting with a prospective agent/agency that's something I would highly advise discussing with them before making your decision for representation.

Written by: Models of Canada