Cathrina
Agencies
Mother Agency (MA): divide management
Toronto: citizen agency
Paris: Premium models
Milan: Supreme Management
London: The hive
Barcelona: Uniko Models
Answers to Q&A
Why did you want to become a model?
I’ve always been a fan of fashion as an art form. When I was a little girl, I remember flipping through cartoon channels then somehow discovering Fashion TV and I was hooked! This was back in early 2000s when TVs were chunky boxes and Cartoon Network was the usual go-to, but I was just mesmerized by the designs and models walking down the runway. I was glued to that TV! Hahaha! I knew then that I wanna be doing THAT. But I didn’t know how I’d get into the industry, it felt like such a long shot. Modelling was never the plan, really. I thought maybe styling or designing because I’ve always been artistic. I draw and I paint. But I also took part in plays at school so I enjoy performance art, and being in front of a camera felt like an extension of that - playing characters, channeling different personas. There was no pressure, I was simply lead by instinct as law of attraction worked its magic. I put it out there and I have a lot of trust. I didn’t expect it to actually happen. And yet, here I am, somehow doing this full-time, globe-trotting, literally living my childhood dreams. Still feels surreal. But I’m so grateful I get to do something I genuinely love.
What makes you special?
I have this weirdly wonderful ability to make people feel like we’ve been friends forever, even if we just met. I’m endlessly curious, like a kid asking a million questions. And that curiosity naturally spills into how I connect with other people. When I chat to someone, I’m genuinely interested in what they’re saying. It makes people feel safe, seen, and relaxed. And honestly, that means everything to me.
The last thing I want is to be seen as intimidating. I truly believe our energy speaks louder than how we look. Sure, people might make snap judgments, but once we really connect, those walls fall away and suddenly, it feels like we’ve known each other forever. That’s my little superpower. Just by being my curious, open self, I bring that energy into every room I enter.
What are you passionate about?
I’m deeply passionate about helping others and living in harmony - with people, with the planet, and with ourselves. Wellness, caring for the Earth, understanding our inner nature, the way our minds work. I find it all endlessly fascinating. At the core, I just really love life and I’m always trying to grow into a better version of myself, not just for me, but so I can better care for my home and my people.
Whatever I do, I want it to benefit more than just me. I truly believe we’re all connected, part of one big circle and I want that message to be loud enough for the people in the back! Competing with each other is just a distraction. We’re meant to collaborate, support, and lift one another up.
I feel incredibly lucky to be seen as an inspiration by some. It’s honestly one of the priceless rewards of my journey so far. I want to keep showing up, paving the way for others, especially those just starting out. And I want to show that taking care of ourselves and the planet doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. That’s the heart behind everything I do: filling my own cup so I can pour into others.
Who is someone you admire and why?
Okay, it’s a bit of a cliché but for good reason: the people I admire most are my parents. I didn’t always see it growing up, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to truly appreciate how much they sacrificed for me and my brother. They gave us opportunities they didn’t have, worked so hard to give us freedom and more options in our lives, and always did their absolute best.
They’re the most resilient people I know and after 30+ years of marriage, they still find new ways to enjoy life together. I look up to them not just as parents, but as mentors. I go to them for advice on everything - business, relationships, life. They’re wise, grounded, and full of love. I feel really lucky to have them by my side.
If you could give an aspiring model any advice, what would it be?
Take the job seriously, but don’t forget to have a lot of fun with it. Blast your favorite playlist before you hit the runway or on set. Enjoy the skincare rituals, the travels, the thrill of being in front of a camera. Be present. It’s a huge honour to say you’re part of something creative and collaborative, even if we’re not literally saving lives we are adding beauty, energy, and art into the world. Respect the craft.
Respect yourself. Be kind to everyone you work with and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. You don’t have to be rude, just clear and grounded. Have compassion for yourself, and for the people around you. "
And study! Practice. Research. Practice some more. Ask questions. Ask other models. We love sharing advice, because we’ve been there too. You’re not alone, and we’re happy to offer guidance while you find your own path. So: respect what we do, be kind, be present, have fun..... and don’t be afraid to ask.