Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vama Shah. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Vama, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

It was a sunny afternoon when I first felt the pull toward a creative career, a moment that has stayed with me ever since. I was eight years old, with wide eyes and an even wider imagination, and my favorite place in the world was the local mall. There was something about the energy of the place—the bustling crowds, the vibrant displays in store windows, the endless possibilities all around me—that made it feel like a world of its own.

That day, I found myself wandering through the mall with my family, but my attention was elsewhere. I was captivated by the models in the storefronts, their poised expressions and elegant poses captured perfectly in glossy magazine pages and life-sized posters. I would linger in front of those windows, gazing at the images of people who seemed larger than life, effortlessly beautiful and confident. They were everything I wanted to be.

As we walked past a clothing store, I stopped in my tracks, drawn to a display of mannequins dressed in the latest fashions. I could almost see myself in their place, standing tall and proud, showcasing the clothes with a grace and ease that seemed to come naturally to them. In my mind, I wasn’t just a little girl in a shopping mall—I was a model, a star, someone who could express themselves in ways that were bold and creative.

Later that evening, after we returned home, I turned on the TV and found myself lost in one of my favorite shows. The actors on screen were captivating, each playing a role that brought the story to life in a way that felt real and tangible. I admired the way they could become different people, telling stories and evoking emotions with just a look or a gesture. I wanted to be like them, to step into different worlds and tell stories that mattered.

That night, as I lay in bed, I couldn’t stop thinking about the models in the magazines, the mannequins in the mall, and the actors on TV. I imagined myself in their shoes—walking down a runway, posing for a photoshoot, or delivering lines in front of a camera. The idea of expressing myself in so many different and creative ways excited me, and it was then that I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to do just that.

As I grew older, that desire only intensified. I began to explore the world of modeling and acting, taking every opportunity to learn and grow in those fields. Whether it was practicing poses in front of the mirror, auditioning for school plays, or immersing myself in fashion magazines, I was always driven by that same sense of excitement and passion that I felt as an eight-year-old.

Looking back, I realize that those early experiences—standing in front of the storefronts, watching TV shows, and dreaming of a creative life—were the first steps on my journey toward modeling and acting. They were moments that sparked a fire within me, a fire that continues to burn brightly as I pursue my dreams. And every time I step in front of a camera or onto a stage, I’m reminded of that little girl in the mall, who knew that she was meant for something more, something creative and beautiful.

Vama, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a 20-year-old model and actress with a deep passion for creative expression and a commitment to fostering inclusivity within the arts. My journey into this profession began when I was 13 years old, following the encouragement of a close friend who saw potential in me and recommended that I take modeling and acting classes. Embracing this opportunity, I quickly fell in love with the world of fashion and performance. Shortly after completing my classes, I participated in a modeling and acting showcase, which proved to be a pivotal moment in my career. It was during this showcase that I caught the attention of a talent agency, and I was subsequently signed on as a professional model and actress.

From there, my career began to take shape. I started with photoshoots that allowed me to explore various facets of modeling, from high fashion to commercial work, and I also became heavily involved in musical theatre during my high school years. This combination of experiences provided me with a diverse skill set and a deeper understanding of both visual and performing arts. The dynamic nature of these industries challenged me to grow, adapt, and continuously hone my craft, whether I was posing for the camera or delivering a performance on stage.

What truly sets me apart in this industry is my unwavering commitment to inclusivity and representation, particularly within the South Asian communities. Throughout my career, I have been driven by the desire to break down barriers and challenge the stereotypes that often surround creative careers in these communities. In many South Asian cultures, pursuing a career in modeling or acting is still considered unconventional, if not outright taboo. The pressure to conform to traditional career paths can be overwhelming, especially for young women. I understand this firsthand, and it has become my mission to serve as a role model for South Asian girls who aspire to creative professions. I aim to show them that it is not only possible but also empowering to pursue their passions, despite societal expectations or criticism.

I am particularly proud of my ability to bring authenticity and emotional depth to my work, whether I am in front of the camera or on stage. Over the years, I have developed a strong ability to pose in ways that convey a wide range of emotions, which is essential for telling compelling stories through visual art. This growing ability to express nuanced feelings has become one of my most valued skills as both a model and an actress. It is this emotional connection that I strive to establish in all of my work, ensuring that each project resonates with the audience on a deeper level.

For my followers, supporters, and potential clients, I want you to know that my work is crafted with a specific purpose in mind—to inspire and uplift, particularly within underrepresented communities. I am dedicated to helping brown girls succeed in industries where they may feel marginalized or discouraged. My goal is to create a space where they can see themselves represented, feel confident in their own skin, and be empowered to pursue their creative dreams without fear of judgment or rejection.

In summary, my journey as a model and actress is defined by a commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and emotional storytelling. I bring these values to every project I undertake, with the hope of making a lasting impact on the industry and inspiring others to do the same. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me, and I look forward to continuing to create meaningful and impactful work that celebrates diversity and authenticity.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional level through my work. Whether I’m modeling in front of a camera or performing on stage, the opportunity to evoke emotions, tell stories, and inspire others is incredibly fulfilling. It’s the moments when someone tells me that my work made them feel seen, understood, or empowered that truly resonate with me.

As a model and actress, I get to explore and express a wide range of human experiences, and that’s a privilege I don’t take lightly. Each project allows me to step into different roles, convey diverse emotions, and bring various narratives to life. This process of creation and transformation is not only personally satisfying but also impactful in a broader sense. I’m particularly passionate about using my platform to promote inclusivity and representation, especially within the South Asian community. Knowing that my work can inspire young girls who might not see themselves represented in mainstream media is incredibly rewarding.

Ultimately, the most fulfilling aspect of being a creative is the ability to influence, uplift, and make a difference in the lives of others through art. It’s about leaving a lasting impact and contributing to a more diverse and inclusive world.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One thing that non-creatives might struggle to understand about the journey as a creative is the profound level of vulnerability and emotional investment involved in this path. When you’re in a creative profession, whether it’s modeling, acting, or any other artistic endeavor, you’re not just producing work—you’re sharing a piece of yourself with the world. This process can be deeply personal and sometimes even challenging because it requires you to constantly put yourself out there, open to both praise and criticism.

Creativity isn’t just about following a set formula or completing tasks; it’s about tapping into your emotions, experiences, and imagination to create something unique. This means that each project, each performance, or each photoshoot is not just work—it’s a reflection of your inner world, your identity, and your personal growth. The creative journey is filled with moments of self-doubt, uncertainty, and even rejection, which can be difficult to navigate. However, it’s also a journey of immense fulfillment, personal discovery, and connection with others.

Another aspect that non-creatives might find hard to grasp is the amount of dedication and perseverance required to succeed in a creative field. It’s easy to look at the final product—whether it’s a beautifully crafted photo, a captivating performance, or a stunning piece of art—and think it all comes naturally. But behind the scenes, there’s an immense amount of hard work, practice, and resilience. The creative process is often filled with countless revisions, long hours, and a constant push to improve and evolve. It’s a path that requires not just talent but also a strong will to keep going, even when the outcome is uncertain.

For those who aren’t in creative fields, it might be helpful to understand that creativity is not just about being artistic—it’s about being courageous enough to share your vision with the world. It’s about embracing the unknown, taking risks, and trusting your instincts, all while navigating the highs and lows that come with any artistic pursuit. The rewards are immense, but they come from a place of deep personal investment and unwavering commitment to your craft.

So, if you know someone on a creative journey, whether they’re a model, actor, writer, or artist, try to appreciate the passion and effort they pour into their work. It’s a journey that demands both heart and soul, and your support can make all the difference in helping them continue to create and inspire.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @vamaa.xo
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vama-shah-046130219/

Image Credits

Allan Fuller
Daniel Turbert
Dimitri Williams