OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

When it comes to work life, conventional wisdom has it we should stick to the straight and the narrow, and strive to be doctors or engineers — or top management honchos. But an ever-increasing bunch are breaking the straitjacket and choosing their own calling

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Tetiana Savchuk: Model

Having worked in the modelling industry for the last eight years, Ukrainian-born Tetiana Savchuk is no stranger to the scrutinising glare of a camera. The 24-year-old first started at modelling school, doing test shoots. But it was after participating in a modelling contest that she first started receiving invitations from overseas agencies. A talent with local agency Diva Models in Dubai today, she loves the work she’s doing — but can’t stress the importance of completing one’s education as well.

Why did you choose modelling as a full-time career?

Well, when I first started, I was sure I was going to become one of those people that went to office every day, starting at 9am and finishing at 5pm — it certainly didn’t seem very exciting to me. My first shoot, however, was very successful and I built up a strong portfolio in just three months. I thought then that I’d give modelling a try and haven’t looked back since.

Did you take any related degrees/courses in the field?

I started off with a three-month acting class and a host of TV programmes. I also did a modelling course where we learned about catwalk, dieting, make-up and hair, and how to work in front of camera.

Give us an idea of your work in the past.

My first trip was to Korea where I did a campaign with Samsung for mobile and computer parts, and multiple cosmetic brands, including Estee Lauder. I did many catalogue shoots in China and Japan, while my trips to Singapore and Hong Kong focused more on fashion shows and magazine shoots.

What strength or asset would you consider most important for a person to ‘make it’ in this field?

Success in modelling is a matter of talent and luck. A positive attitude, self-confidence and a good manager are important to succeed.

There is a notion that a model’s life must be nothing but glamour and fun all the time. Can you give us the ‘real deal’?

Model life is fun. You travel a lot, meet people, and wake up in different cities for your work. But it’s also hard work to maintain yourself in good condition and look ‘fresh’ each time. The industry is very demanding. One day, you’re in, the next day: out, because there are younger, better-looking models entering the field. Also, you can get caught up in the vices of the industry occasionally, so one has to always be on guard as well.

Were folks around you supportive when you said you wanted to be a model?

My parents and friends were worried initially because they didn’t want me to go abroad by myself for months. Also, completing my education was becoming complicated. So I had to promise my parents my university plans were still on first — it was a promise I managed to keep.

What would you say to those being discouraged from pursuing a career in this field?

You can do whatever feels good to you but a good education is key to everything. Modelling is a short-term profession, after which you must know what you want to do with your life. The chances of becoming a supermodel are very slim. So it’s good to look at the reality and have some back-up plan that will protect you from regrets. One should never stop discovering new things or gaining more knowledge.