Interview with Fenessa — Student, Model, and Fashion Blogger
Fenessa is a 20-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I am a medical student living in the Twin Cities area. Born in Edina, Minnesota to a Vietnamese father and a Vietnamese-Amerasian, who is half-Vietnamese, half-African, mother. My blog, My Noire Details, has only been around for a couple of months, but it is very dear to my heart and has combined all my favorite things: modeling, shopping, makeup, and writing. Modeling and blogging are what keep me busy outside of school.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
My mom told me that when I was about two years old, while we were shopping I made my way into a studio and sat in front of the camera and had some pictures taken. Since then, getting pictures taken has always been something I’ve loved! I didn’t officially get involved in the modeling industry until senior year of high school, when I was took a beginner’s acting class. From there, things just happened!
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
My main goal is to graduate and get a job, all the while continuing to build my blog. I’d also love to meet “the one” within the next 5 years. On the topic of modeling, however, I’d love to continue getting my name out there and make it to the point where I get to travel for photoshoots or fashion shows!
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
When I’m not at school or with my family, I’m modeling. All my weekends are usually booked with photoshoots and fittings and fashion shows. I mainly do commercial and creative photoshoots, but lately have been involved in multiple fashion shows! With my blog, I’ve also been doing a lot of fashion photoshoots.
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
My best and worst experience modeling were both at the same convention in 2014. It was the worst experience because my self-esteem during the entire event was terrible. I was surrounded by tall, skinny, beautiful girls, making me feel like a complete stump. It was a horrible time for me, but looking back, going to that convention was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. At that convention, I had the honor of meeting so many talented people and getting so much advice that would really launch my modeling career in the following years. It changed my outlook on everything, definitely made me stronger mentally and emotionally, and made me the person I am today.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
Embarrassing, yes! At a fashion show, I had an allergic reaction to the fabric of the garment I was wearing and broke out into hives! It was so embarrassing because I had to walk a very long runway and make it look like there was nothing out of the ordinary when in reality, I wanted to scratch every inch of my body and soak in a hot bath at the same time.
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
I would really love it if being short was more acceptable. I understand the reason behind having tall models, but I’d love it if short girls had a chance too. Not just short girls, but anyone who is outside the 5’9″ and stick skinny norm should have a go at modeling too!
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I am terrible at nutrition, as I eat whatever I crave and then work it off at the gym afterwards. The treadmill and elliptical are my best friends! I don’t have much of an appetite for anything too sweet, though. My sweet tooth fell out when I was young, I suppose…
Would you change anything about yourself?
Honestly, I would love to be taller. I am 5’3″ and would love it if I were 5’9″, but there is nothing else about me that I would change, just the height… But I’ve managed to make my short height work for me, and I believe that as long as I keep doing what I’m doing and believe in myself, everything will be ok!
What is the one talent you wish you possessed?
I would love it if I were musically talented! Both my parents are Vietnamese folk singers and those genes completely skipped my siblings and I. I love music and I love karaoke, but I’m not good at singing at all, and I wish I could sing and become a singer. That would be amazing!
Visit Fenessa’s website for more photos and information