Meet Vama Shah of Chapel Hill

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vama Shah

Hi Vama, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into modeling and acting began with a suggestion from a friend when I was just 13 years old. Intrigued by the idea, I decided to enroll in modeling and acting classes to explore this new avenue. These classes not only taught me the basics of modeling and acting but also ignited a passion within me that I never knew existed.

As I continued to learn and grow, I participated in a modeling and acting showcase, which proved to be a turning point in my career. It was at this showcase that I caught the eye of an agent who saw potential in me and offered to represent me. This opportunity opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and I began to work with photographers, taking on various modeling projects and expanding my portfolio.

With each new project, I gained valuable experience and confidence in my abilities. I learned the importance of professionalism, dedication, and hard work in the competitive world of modeling and acting. Today, I am proud of how far I have come and excited for the future that lies ahead. My journey has been filled with ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I am grateful for the support of my friends and mentors, who have helped me along the way, and I look forward to continuing to pursue my passion for modeling and acting.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey into modeling and acting has been far from smooth. One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was my height. Standing at 5’5″, I quickly realized that I didn’t fit the traditional mold of a model, as many agencies have strict height requirements. This limitation made it difficult to find opportunities in the industry, and I often felt discouraged.

Another significant struggle I faced was with confidence. Modeling and acting require a level of self-assurance and belief in oneself that I didn’t always have. I constantly compared myself to others and doubted whether I had what it takes to succeed in such a competitive field. Overcoming these feelings of self-doubt and learning to embrace my unique qualities was a long and challenging process.

Despite these obstacles, I remained determined to pursue my passion. I worked hard to improve my skills, attending additional classes and workshops to hone my craft. I also sought out photographers who were willing to work with models of all heights, expanding my portfolio and opening up new opportunities.

Through perseverance and a belief in myself, I have been able to overcome many of these challenges. While the road has been tough, each obstacle has taught me valuable lessons and made me stronger. I continue to work on building my confidence and skills, knowing that the journey to success is often filled with setbacks but ultimately rewarding.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a South Asian model and actress, I specialize in breaking barriers and challenging norms within the South Asian community. Typically, you can see me doing photoshoots, interviews, or runway shows. I am known for setting a standard for desi girls, showing that pursuing modeling and acting can be empowering and liberating choices.

One of my proudest achievements is doing a photo shoot for a dumpling company to be featured on their product’s packaging. Being a trailblazer in an industry where South Asians are often underrepresented makes me feel content as I am changing societal beliefs and values. By pursuing my passion for modeling and acting, I am breaking stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of desi girls to follow their dreams.

What sets me apart from others is my determination and commitment to challenging traditional beliefs and expectations. I am not afraid to push boundaries and step out of my comfort zone to pursue my goals. I strive to inspire other South Asian girls to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions, regardless of societal norms.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @vamaa.xo