Getting to know...
S H I V A N I P E R S A D
1.
How did you get into Modelling?
People had always asked me if I did it, and I was brought up to think it wasn’t a real career, so I never looked into it. I then got scouted while on a trip to Canadian Idol with my dance team, and once I realized someone in the entertainment industry thought I could do it, then I started to believe in myself. Then I started meeting with agencies and the rest is history.
2.
You were born in Trinidad, how long did you live there before moving to Canada? and Do you miss it?
I lived there for 5 years, but I wish it was longer. I do miss it. I haven’t been there in a very long time, but the lifestyle is very different there. It’s so much more laid back. My parents left there so my brother and I could have a better, safer future, which we do, but I always wish I could go back more often and experience some island vibes. Plus, it’s not freezing cold like Canada!
3.
The best thing about being model?
Hands down the best thing about modelling is travelling and getting to work with different people everyday. Not many jobs can offer you that.
4.
The worst thing about being a model?
Instability. I never know where I’m going to be next week or even tomorrow. One call from my mother agency and I gotta hop on a plane somewhere. It causes a lot of anxiety, and it’s hard because you can’t really make any concrete plans.
5.
What top 3 tips would you give to somebody who wants to get into modelling?
First of all, be healthy - it’s not about being skinny, it’s about being fit and looking healthy. Secondly, do your research - a lot of people think they understand this industry and they don’t at all, talk to agencies, bookers, other models, find out if it’s really for you. Third, just go for it - if you think it’s something you’re into after you research it, start right away! This isn’t always something you can do forever, so don’t wait, start working out, meeting with agencies, shooting tests etc ASAP!
6.
You’re a model which means you have great fashion sense but can you think of any fashion crimes you have committed in the past?
I don’t think I have a great fashion sense at all LOL. I’m a very Plain Jane. I like to be comfy but also chic. But I’m not interesting haha. I definitely used to commit crimes in fashion but what I’ve learned working in this industry is that yes, there are standards of what’s in and what isn’t, but in the end, no one can tell you what you’re wearing is wrong or doesn’t work. Maybe it doesn’t work for them, but that doesn’t mean it’s a “crime”, it just doesn’t fit into their narrative, and that’s fine.
7.
Any behind the scenes, funny moments that have happened you
Oh for sure! Every day on set is hilarious. I’ve tripped, fallen, dropped stuff - you name it. I’m such a klutz.
8.
What’s your favourite place on earth?
Home. Trinidad. I haven’t been there in years but it’s the most beautiful place I remember. It’s calm but exciting at the same time. There’s no where like it.
9.
The best place you have visited with your modelling career
Mallorca! I got flown there to do a catalogue for Littlewoods, and it was an unbelievable island. The Balearic Islands are incredible. There is so much more to Spain than just the country - the islands surrounding it have so much to offer.
10.
What’s your favourite meal?
Basically anything with avocado. But I also really love a good slice of pizza.
11.
Plain or pattern?
Plain. 100%.
12.
Stone wash or tie-dye?
Probably neither but if I had to choose - Stone Wash. But if I’m in a fun mood, tie-dye.
13.
Lipstick or lip-gloss?
Lipstick.
14.
Cats or dogs?
I love both. But I’d choose dogs if it was one or the other.
15.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
Family. (does that count?)
16.
What’s on your iPod right now?
So many random songs. LOL - I’m an underground hip hop kind of girl at heart. But I dabble in other genres. I don’t update my iPod much though.
17.
What makes you go to sleep?
NOTHING! I’m such an insomniac. But lately I’ve been so exhausted with travelling that I jus knock out. So, exhaustion I guess haha.
18.
If you could time warp yourself to any point in history when would it be, who would you hang out with?
Hmmm, that’s a good one. I’m not sure. I wouldn’t mind chilling with the Dalai Lama though. Or Nelson Mandela. Maybe India in the 1930s.
19.
What is the most precious thing in your wardrobe?
I don’t really have just one thing. There’s a shirpa coat from Aritzia that I love. Or maybe my Topshop jeans.
20.
If Ryan Gosling came over to you right now, what would you say to him?
Why did you have a baby with Eva Mendez and not me? No, I’m totally kidding. How do you keep your life so private?
21.
What’s the most embarrassing thing you’ve ever done?
I was walking by a parked car once and said, wow that guy parked like an ass. And someone walked by and said, that’s my car.
22.
How long does it take you to decide what to wear?
2 minutes - I’m usually in a rush in the morning. If it’s an event or something I decide way beforehand.
23.
What’s your biggest inspiration?
My parents.
24.
What’s the best bargain you’ve ever got?
I once got the most gorgeous saree for 50% off.
25.
What’s the biggest shopping mistake you’ve ever made?
I think I always forget to purchase basics. And when something’s on sale I get excited and buy too fast, and then I never end up wearing it.
Instagram
Twitter
