It’s a cutthroat fashion industry. Rejections and criticisms are inevitable. It takes resilience and determination to make your mark, and 19-year-old model Kira Manansala knows this all too well.
Starting her modeling career at the tender age of 12, she was not spared from these struggles. Now, with over seven years of invaluable modeling experience under her belt, Kira proves that modeling, much like any other endeavor, thrives on persistence.
Kira, who recently modeled for Preview's Best Filipino Fashion Designers photoshoot, shared with us in an exclusive interview how she got her start in the modeling industry, also noting the hurdles she faced and how she learned to overcome them.
Preview Go-See: Kira Manansala on Her Modeling Career
How did you get your start in the modeling industry? Tell us the story of how you got “discovered.”
"It all started when I tried to audition for a model reality search back in 2016, and Professional Models' Association of the Philippines (PMAP) was one of the organizers. For some reason, the model reality search didn't push through, but PMAP sent me an invitation to audition for them instead."
How long have you been a model and what do you love the most about it?
"I've been modeling for seven years now, and one of the things I love about it is that I always get to meet new people from the fashion industry."
Would you say being a model is your dream job? Why or why not?
"International modeling is one of my dream jobs because I know that will bring me more exposure and will open up golden opportunities for my young modeling career."
What was the biggest struggle you’ve faced in the modeling industry and how did you overcome it?
"When I was starting, my biggest struggle in modeling was handling rejections and criticisms. I was only 12 years old back then, so it always used to hurt me when I got rejected for a job. But as I went along, I learned that rejections are just part of the job and that I should take it as a challenge and a learning experience to improve myself."
What would you say is the most memorable project you’ve done as a model so far?
"The most memorable project I've done so far was when I posed for Rustan's Jewelry Magazine in 2018. They wanted me to cut my hair short to suit up the peg of the shoot. At that time, I really loved my long straight hair, but I knew I had to do this at one point in my career, so I decided to have it done."
How do you see your career progressing in the future? Do you have a dream modeling gig?
"I think modeling abroad will always be on my bucket list. I guess I'm going to deal with it once I finish my studies at some point."
What’s something unique about you that sets you apart from all other models?
"One thing that's unique about me and sets me apart from other models is that I can switch from the modeling industry to a beauty pageant. I won the title of Miss Teen Tourism Philippines 2019 and Miss Teen Tourism International 2019. Joining Binibining Pilipinas soon is also on top of my bucket list."
What’s your go-to model-off-duty look?
"My go-to model-off-duty look is composed of a white halter top, black yoga pants paired with comfy heels, and a confident strut!"
In your own opinion, what are the characteristics of a great model?
"For me, a great model always brings her best performance in every single job. A model who is always on time and never late, and knows how to get along with their peers as well."
What’s your advice to aspiring models?
"My usual advice to young aspiring models out there is to never fear rejection and criticism. They should also have a great amount of discipline to maintain the ideal body that the industry requires."
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