Interview: Cover Girl Betsie Dsane (London)
Can you tell us a little about you?
My name is Betsie Dsane and I was born and raised in London. I’ve been modelling for a while and would say that I’ve had an auspicious career, doing something that I absolutely love. My career has taking me all around the world and I’ve had the pleasure to work with some big names in the industry. I first started out doing shows, and fashion week was the highlight. Paris, Milan, New York and of course London. I’ve walked for Giorgio Armani, Vivienne Westwood, DKNY, ISSA, Alexander McQueen and Amanda Wakeley to name a few. And I’ve also done campaigns for Abercrombie and Fitch, Saks Fifth Avenue, Revlon, Nike ,H&M, M&S, Body Shop, De Beers, 7up, Selfridges. I’ve also shot for cosmopolitan, another magazine, W magazine and Elle.
If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?
I have a fear of speaking publicly. And I really wish I could change that about myself. Put me in front of a camera and I have no problem acting or performing eg. for a commercial or even on the catwalk, that comes naturally.
How did you start modeling?
It was through my hairdresser Terry Jacques who happened to be good friends with my agent at that time, so made a phone call to her. An appointment was made. I reluctantly went as I didn’t think someone like me could model. I was a very shy and still am to some degree.
What do you think of the work as a model?
Working as a model has been an amazing journey. I really enjoying doing what I do and it’s been an industry that has given me so much. As mentioned before I’ve been able to travel to places in the world I possibly wouldn’t have traveled to, and I’ve been able to work with celebrities and fashion houses, that I never imagined I’d work for. It’s been a magical experience. Of course it wasn’t always plain sailing and can be a very difficult industry to work in.
What is your beauty regime?
My beauty regime is not only superficial and just about keeping my skin healthy, with the aid of good cleansing products and facials. I believe in keeping a balance internally and externally.
I eat well and my diet consists of healthy foods, drinking a lot of water, juicing and taking vitamins. I also go to the gym, have massages, manicures and pedicures. But most importantly I believe in keeping a healthy mind which I do through meditation. Beauty within is everything.
What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?
I have the ability to get on with everyone. I don’t like confrontation and prefer to keep it simple and just enjoy people and life. For most part I am always laughing. I am determined, positive and kind. I am also an empath and feel deeply.
What are your plans for the future?
I never really like to say before it’s time. But I’m looking to work behind the scenes, within the fashion industry. All I can say is watch this space.
What are some of your favourite experiences so far?
Having my daughter is by far my favourite experience. She is my life and has shown m the epitome love. She is my driving force and has given me a completely different outlook on life. Also travelling, nothing better than experiencing other cultures, food, music and way of life. And also working with Madonna, shooting H & M, and working with Bruce Webber and Steven Klein.
Do you have any advice for those who want to start modeling?
You have to be confident and also someone who can build a good rapport with others. You will come into contact with so many people in the industry. And it important that you leave a lasting impression. Good hopefully.
Keep yourself in good shape, appearance must be clean and simple but also striking. Learn to walk and also work the camera. I use to practise in the mirror when I first started.
Be true to yourself, have strength of character and be original.
What do you think of the magazine?
I think is a great platform for people within the arts to share and showcase their work and it creates a community in which we can all come together.
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