Modeling is like any other profession its sustainability depends on how you pursue it.
1. Tell us about your background and journey.
I am Prabhdeep Kaur, born and raised in Kalanaur, a small town in Gurdaspur, Punjab. I have a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Sri Guru Ram Das College of Nursing, Sri Amritsar. I was the valedictorian in my nursing program and one of the three state toppers of Baba Farid University. Currently, I work as a Professor and Registered Nurse in California, USA.
2. When did you start your modeling career?
I remember that as a little girl, I always dreamt of modeling in my modest attire as I practiced Sikhism. When I started wearing a turban, it became an integral part of me. However, in India, I noticed indifferent behavior towards my turban-clad look by fashion show organizers. This led me to drop the idea of pursuing modeling until last year when I came across an advertisement for a fashion show near me.
I approached the designer and informed her that I wear a turban. To my surprise, after looking at my pictures, she was impressed and wanted me to be part of it. It was just the beginning; when I was on the runway, it made me feel like that little girl with wings. After that, I received multiple opportunities, such as winning the Miss Bharat Elite title by My Dream TV USA, participating in shows in LA, New York, being on a billboard in Times Square, London, Milan, San Francisco Fashion shows, and being published in multiple magazines. Recently, I became the first turban-clad Sikh woman in the digital print of British Vogue.
3. Is it financially sustainable to be a model today?
Determining if modeling is financially sustainable as a profession is challenging. It depends on how famous you become with your unique look, luck, public acceptance of your talent, and the agency you work with. Social media plays a huge role today in getting more work; more followers or subscribers can lead to more opportunities.
I have met models who save money from modeling jobs for their education in medical, nursing, and other fields. Modeling is like any other profession; its sustainability depends on how you pursue it. Some models have other gigs alongside modeling due to its competitiveness. In my experience, commercial modeling offers more financial sustainability.
4. What is your idea of success or your mantra in life?
Success can be defined in multiple ways depending on circumstances and goals. For me, success means becoming the first successful turban-clad modest model. Each little achievement I gain on a daily basis becomes my drive to work harder toward my goal.
My educational goals are different, and my idea of success in that area is also different. Hard work, dedication, a positive attitude, and perseverance are key. Self-love is my mantra; I never let defeats stop me from achieving my dreams.
5. What is your piece of advice for future aspiring models?
Aspiring models should understand that this profession has flaws, but success depends on making wise choices at each step of the journey. We grow by learning from our mistakes. Models should start by getting digital prints done, applying to legitimate modeling agencies, attending all castings as networking and connections are vital, and always researching people they get involved with.
Photographers can also help get work, so they should be seen as allies. Models should never let anyone take advantage of them and should always consider how each participation will benefit their career advancement.
6. Who is your favorite model and why?
Naomi Campbell is my favorite model. Her career as the first black supermodel is an example in itself of becoming a supermodel. At 53, she is still a supermodel for major brands. She broke barriers in the modeling industry and inspired me to bring about change for women of diversity and minorities to become the face of the industry. We need diversity not only in shapes and sizes but also in women of different looks and preferences, including modest fashion, without judgments.
Interviewed by - Ashmeet Kaur
Edited by- Arunangshu Chatterjee
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