We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Hemali Sona. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Hemali below.

Hemali, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

In this day and age, there is an imperative focus on inclusiveness. This wasnt always the case in regards to the modeling industry when I first began and even, sometimes, to this day. Being misunderstood & mischaracterized resonates with me because there were plenty of times where I didnt fit the stereotype for modeling in the industry. Being a woman of color, in a room full of white women with blonde hair and blue eyes, felt like a setback. Now, it is seen as empowering. I would like to be a living reminder that being a woman of color wasnt always praised in the industry as it is now. I am grateful for the newfound focus on inclusiveness because representation is very important.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have been modeling for almost 7 years now and use it as a creative outlet from my primary career. I began modeling just for fun with my friend who enjoyed taking pictures. I began working with local photographers in tfp exchanges until I was scouted by an international agency. Due to my primary career, I was unable to travel as much as I wouldve liked to so I left that agency. I was then signed by SCE Agency and absolutely adore everything they represent. They focus on inclusion and fully support my school schedule as well. I have done many shoots from creative to commercial with opportunities such as Nike and Starbucks. I am also published in multiple magazines from America to the Netherlands. I am proud to be representing Indian women in the modeling industry.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I think the most rewarding part about modeling is, not only, the financial aspect, but the amount of self love that you acquire. Its so important to remain confident in your work. I think through the ups and downs of modeling, learning how to love myself was the most rewarding factor. Even if I didn’t book a project, I knew it was fine and I would work harder for the next one. This also trickled into my personal life. I now tend to naturally teach those around me how to be confident and pour into themselves.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I think society can support creatives by not comparing artists to eachother. Each creative has their own style and form of expression that should be respected as such. It can be detrimental to compare two different forms of expression as that brings on the, very wrong, assumption that all creatives should be performing in the same manner. To support artists and creatives, its best to simply show support and be respectful.

Contact Info:

• Website: hemalimodeling.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonaaa_xo

Image Credits
Maseo Photo Praneeth Koduru Raneen