I actually started modeling in Ethiopia, because that's where I grew up, and I started out by just doing little fashion shows for school, and I liked it so much that I started pursuing it.
My first really big job was an advertorial for Italian Vogue. I cried on set because I didn't know what to do. That was two weeks after being in Milan for the very first time. I think I had one or two test shoots there.
Modeling in Europe at the beginning of my career was pretty hard, with the constant traveling and uncertainty as to where I was going to be from one day to the next. I was always getting run-down from jet lag and being in strange towns where I didn't speak the language or know what the food was like.
There was a modeling agency in my little town where I got my start, but the opportunity came to work in Japan when I was fourteen. My mom went with me until I was seventeen. Her only stipulation was that I had to keep my schoolwork up. My mom was great. She is still my best friend.
Modeling in Europe at the beginning of my career was pretty hard, with the constant traveling and uncertainty as to where I was going to be from one day to the next.
I was the first Indian model to have a career in Paris, Milan and New York.
When I modeled, I lived in Europe and worked all the time. I did runway, and that's all I did.
I started as a model in Mexico - I was traveling, but my base was in Mexico City. And then I studied acting for three years.
I was the first Indian model to have a career in Paris, Milan and New York. I am the first one to admit I was a novelty.
