Daniella
Agencies
Mother Agency (MA): CIOTTI Models
Answers to Q&A
What INSPIRED you to become a model?
For as long as I can remember, people told me I should model; it ran in my family, and everyone seemed convinced I was destined for it. I heard it so often that I started resisting it. As a kid, I even found it a little annoying because all I cared about were my books and I didn’t want to feel defined by how I looked. I was an academically gifted child, but at the same time, I was obsessed with fashion magazines and I would spend hours drawing clothes, imagining they would one day come to life. Ironically, I didn’t like taking pictures, yet everything came naturally the moment I stepped in front of a camera. Deep down, I think I always knew I wanted to explore modelling and I just didn’t want to admit it.
Growing up in a small city, I often looked different from the people around me but when I watched fashion shows, I saw girls who looked like me and their beauty was celebrated. That representation gave me a confidence that my environment didn’t always nurture.
I ended up pouring myself into my education, earning my degrees with highest distinctions. My academic journey has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished; still, even with my love for science, I couldn’t ignore my growing interest in modelling. For a long time, I felt pressured to choose between the two, until I realized that limiting myself to one path wasn’t the answer. This year, I finally asked myself, “Why can’t I do both?” The moment I made that decision, I sent in some pictures and was in contact with my agent Jarrett at Ciotti Models the next morning. Everything fell into place so quickly which felt like confirmation that it was meant to be. Having family and friends who began their modelling careers in Toronto also gave me guidance and support, which made stepping into this new world a lot less intimidating.
What are you most excited about when it comes to modeling?
I’m the most excited about the connections I’ll make. Every person I’ve met so far in the industry has been incredibly friendly, supportive, and filled with genuine excitement when they hear that this is my first year. It’s refreshing to be surrounded by creatives who believe in you.
I’m also excited about the self-discovery that comes with modelling. It is such a beautiful form of expression, and it pushes you out of your comfort zone. Being able to express myself creatively and tell stories through the art of fashion is what inspires me most.
Can you share with us some advice you have for models wanting to get into the industry?
If you have a desire, don’t be afraid to explore it because it was placed on your heart for a reason. The worst thing you can do is deny yourself the chance to try.
Also, don’t let anyone else define what you can or cannot do; your confidence, drive, and willingness to take the first step can take you places you never imagined. The sky is truly the limit.
share a fun fact about yourself!
I love numbers. I specialized in epidemiology, and everything makes more sense to me when it’s grounded in data. I have a very analytical brain, and math has always been my favourite subject.