Shani
Agencies
Mother Agency (MA): B&M Models
Montreal: Montage Models
Paris: fever management
London: IMM Models
Cape town: the beautiful people agency
Answers to Q&A
Why did you become a model?
Like many people my age, I immersed myself in the fashion world on weekends watching Fashion Television. I loved everything about it. As a kid, I wanted to be a fashion designer and filled sketchbooks with my designs. Modeling came naturally… I was tall, skinny, and had a unique look. I was scouted throughout my life by agents and creative directors, but when I was 16, I was invited to take part in a segment for Extra about how to get into modeling. That introduction kick-started my career shortly afterward.
What makes you special?
My agency would say my professionalism and quick response time, but I’d add that in a world where youth preservation is so common, I’m 100% natural. I’ve never had injections or treatments, and I’ve never dyed my hair. I show up to castings as my authentic self, with a bit of lip gloss and a light touch of blush.
What are you passionate about?
Until I was 30, my passion was fashion. I still have every Vogue magazine I’ve ever purchased. Now, my greatest passion is being a mom. I love my daughter, and I love doing things for her and with her such as making her costumes for Halloween or school plays, creating fun meals, helping with projects, and introducing her to new places and experiences. Seeing her enjoy those moments makes my heart smile.
What’s a story your family/friends like to tell about you?
This story always makes me laugh. For the record, he will tell you I made the offer but I remember it differently. Back when I was living in a model hotel in Greece, a friend and I made a deal…he would cook dinner if I did the dishes, or maybe I made him the offer; I honestly can’t remember. Anyway, when dinner was ready and it was time to plate the food, I stopped him and handed him two paper plates and plastic cutlery. I always bought disposable kitchen items so I wouldn’t get dragged into arguments about who wasn’t doing their dishes.
If you could give an aspiring model any advice, what would it be?
I created a business called Models Advice, so I have plenty to share. One key piece of advice that applies to most models is: don’t have a private Instagram account. If you want a private personal account, that’s fine, but your modeling Instagram, which should be treated as your business account, needs to be public and regularly updated.