Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Aliza Baran

We got to chat with Gowri Nadella, an up and coming model who is championing diversity and breaking barriers as a first-generation American.

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Growing up was modeling always a career you were hoping to pursue and were your parents supportive of that choice?

Growing up, I would always put on shows for my parents where I would sing and dance and it became very evident to myself and my family that I loved the performing arts. As a child, I was always very expressive. I have very big eyes and long eyelashes and would always always use them to my advantage when I wanted to be dramatic haha. As I grew up, I developed a passion for fashion, business, and being in front of a camera and from then on I knew I wanted to model. From the moment I told my parents at 6 years old that I wanted to model, they have been incredibly supportive of my career and have tried to help me in the way they can. I come from a family where creativity is celebrated and I am truly blessed to have such a great support system around me. 

You’re a first-generation American and have worked hard to become a model. What were some obstacles you faced when you first decided to pursue modeling?

When I first started modeling, I learned that dealing with rejection and being resilient is something that is needed to become successful. Rejection is something that no one wants to face, especially when it pertains to their dreams, and I had to work on myself and change my perception of rejection. Instead of taking rejection to heart, I learned to take criticism and employ it in a positive way to improve myself and my skills. I distinctly remember doing an audition for a TV show last summer and making it very far in the casting process but unfortunately not booking it in the end. Instead of becoming upset with myself, I was just insanely grateful to be auditioning with such amazing talent and getting the opportunity to audition for the project. 

There isn’t enough Indian representation when it comes to the fashion industry in general. With recent social justice movements and conversations happening in 2020, have you seen a shift within the industry becoming more diverse?

I have definitely seen such positive growth within the industry. Growing up, I wasn’t able to turn to TV or Magazines and see people who looked like me, and at times that was very alienating. Throughout the past few years, I’ve seen such an important emphasis placed on diversity and inclusivity. I’ve noticed that there isn’t one look a model should fit anymore, being unique is now celebrated more than ever and I’m so privileged to witness this change first-hand. 

Have you been finding yourself in positions where you can speak up about diversity with your peers and people who work within the industry? How can you get the conversation started?

Yes, I am very fortunate that diversity is now prevalent more than ever in the industry. I’ve also been very fortunate to work with amazing people who also feel that everyone deserves to be represented. Something i’ve learned is there’s no need to be shy when talking about personal experiences or topics such as diversity. Starting a conversation is the first step to making a difference and is now more important than ever. 

After modeling for two years do you have a favorite brand you’ve worked with or project you’ve worked on?

It’s so hard to choose because I’ve had such positive experiences with everyone I’ve worked with! I would say my most memorable project has been the “See You Through My Eyes” music video for The Head and The Heart. This was the first big project I booked and I had such a fun and positive experience while on set. The cast and crew were incredible and I remember dancing and laughing the whole time in between takes. 

What advice do you have for other women of color who want to model?

I would say embrace what makes you unique. Individuality is celebrated and staying authentically yourself is the most rewarding.