Interview with Karishma — I am not perfect but I feel perfect
Karishma is a 24-year old model residing in Des Plaines, Illinois.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born in Chicago Illinois, moved to Texas for 13 years, and came back to the place I always felt had my heart. My family means the world to me, parents are the only ones that devote as much unconditional love as anyone possibly can and that is the thing I am most grateful for. I am a part time student studying Business as well as working at a hotel on Tuesdays, where I get paid to do homework as well as a Limo driver. I also work as a promotional model and traveling brand ambassador. Traveling is my life and if I get paid to travel, that is perfect. I utilize my time very wisely, trying to make money while doing what I love as well as weaving a safety net, in other words, school.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
In high school I struggled through bullying, leading to extreme self consciousness and self criticizing thoughts which lead to awkward relationships with people, resulting in the further decomposition of my confidence and my life. Although I was not confident, there was one place I felt confident, and that was in front of the camera.
Although I was told repeatedly I would never be good enough by my peers, I did it, and this persistence is now making me great side income.
Through years of finding who I am, rebuilding my confidence, and realizing that the series of unfortunate events made me stronger as a person and more compassionate towards others, I am who I am today, and I am so thankful for it. Modeling has given me the ability to have a little bit of confidence, which I used and grew throughout my life, helping me succeed in other aspects of my journey in life. I believe confidence is attractive, ego is not.
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
My personal goals include being able to sharpen my skill sets to not just work, but to live life how I want while making money to support my love for traveling.
Within the next 5 to ten years I see myself traveling the world, making interpersonal connections, making money and investments to fulfill the first four needs on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, eventually being able to fulfill that equilibrium in life, complete Self actualization. I am not just trying to be a model, but a role model.
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
I do modeling whenever my schedule permits and it consists of getting paid to do what I love. I couldn’t ask for more. I do photo shoots, video, working on acting, catwalks -If they allow for models under 5’7- and all sorts of modeling including Art, Editorial, Fashion, Fitness, Glamour, Hair and Makeup, Lifestyle, Parts Modeling, Pinup, Promotional Modeling, Runway, Spokesperson and Host, Sports, Stunt, Underwater.
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
Best: Being able to travel for work as a promotional model as well as being able to work for a good cause -Breast cancer awareness calendar for Harley Davidson for the 3rd year-.
Worst: Creepy and borderline unprofessional photographers when I first started modeling. But I can pretty much weed them out right about now.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
Lots of things. Every gig has a story, not just mine, but the brands as well, which I like learning about when I do model for them. Networking is key.
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
Yes, I would promote models of all different shapes and sizes and encourage women to love themselves more and not have unrealistic expectations for themselves.
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I like to work out as well as yoga and meditation. I personally have been very thin all my life naturally and I’ve always wanted to gain weight. But eating healthy and working out the right way according to my body’s goals, which is strength training in my case- I can improve my physical appearance and wellness. The mind, body, and soul is all important to me, resulting in that perfect equilibrium in my life.
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I’m pretty much an open book, I love learning about myself and have people learn from my experiences.
One thing some people may not know is I think very deeply. I used to think it was a curse to think too much and feel so deeply about things. But I take it as a curse and a blessing. With yin there’s yang and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Would you change anything about yourself?
24 and still trying to better myself. 74 and I’ll be doing the same. Accept what you can’t change. But be willing to take constructive criticism to change what you can. Self improvement is the name of the game
Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?
On the rocks… at the beach.