Interview: Cover Girl Nellya Kate (France)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m Nellya. I was born in Guadeloupe and grew up in Martinique. I have mixed origin, my mother is from the Caribbean and my father is French. I’ve been influenced by 2 completely different cultures. I was looking early for self government. When I was 8 we moved to Paris. It was a huge change. Mentalities were very different from where I came from. At first, it was difficult to adapt but I finally made a strength of it. From the age of 10, as my own sense of melody emerged naturally, with a view to developing it, I took singing and guitar courses then I went to music schools. Then I worked with several musicians and photographers; from that point I discovered a real passion for photography and became a model.

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?

I wouldn’t change anything. I believe that we’re made unique as we are for a reason, and have to love and accept ourselves for who we are, instead of be looking for any change. Even if society educates us differently, selling us a unique model to fit in, whereas we’re the most blooming when we’re loving and assuming ourselves.

How did you start modelling?

I’ve been contacted by a photography studio while I was posting pictures on my social medias. I was 17. They found my profil interesting so they proposed me to make my book. That was my first experience. The photographer of the studio is now kind of my mentor. He taught me everything.

What do you think of the work as a model?

I think that people consider that being a good model is all about being good looking, but the truth is that it is not only about your looks. You definitely have to deliver something more. It can be expressed through a gaze, an expression, an attitude, a movement, a feeling, anything. It must become an osmosis between you and the photographer/the team you’re working with. Pictures are moments, stories. Moments of life, real or created. It’s a dream. A fantasy. And the more you engage in a photography, the more it will be alive and will catch people’s attention.

What is your beauty regimen?

I have the most healthy diet you can have despite my guilty pleasures. I eat vegan and lots of fresh food. I try to workout everyday. Drink tones of water. Healthy diet is the main thing isn’t it? In addition to cosmetics, I’m also fond of natural hair and skin treatments. Here’s one for blond hair : a mask of coconut oil, honey and lemon juice, a bath of sun and that’s all for a gorgeous shining blond hair. I think happiness and inner peace helps a lot too. And I reach such a state of mind with spirituality.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m currently recording and producing an album that will soon be published on my social medias with music videos showing me up not only as a model, but also as a singer. I’m thinking about a new way to combine these 2 passions. And to commit myself on social projects . By using those arts as a voice.

What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?

My creativity. Definitely. Artists are already distinguished from others because they have the ability to bring novelty to the world, concepts, ideas that are not existing. This is the essence of creation. I’m ambitious, voluntary, demanding and perfectionist. Therefore I never give up on my goals and dedicate my entire life to their accomplishment.

What are some of your favorite experiences so far?

I like the diversity that working with all these photographers is offering. It made me know myself every time a bit more. You never know what is coming upfront. It’s always new and I find it stimulating.

If it had to chose my favorite experience, that would be with Laurent Cgartist. This guy is not only a photographer but also an amazing graphist. He introduced me to his art laboratory and it blew my mind. He can build a whole universe through his imagination. And he has such a nice and humble attitude which makes any meeting with him ever more enjoyable.

Do you have any advice for those who want to start modelling?

I would advice them to believe in their dream. Work hard, never give up and never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. You’re the only one to know. I would also add that it’s a difficult field and you may meet unhealthy people. You have to stay strong and confident, passionated and devoted. “You have to believe in believing” as Pat Cleveland is used to say.

What do you think of the magazine?

This magazine is a real voice for emerging fashion artists coming from around the world. It covers so many subjects that everybody can relate to : it’s a modern magazine that brings several interesting subjects (fashion, food, lifestyle, animals, landscapes) up to date with a fresh style. It’s an honour to be part of it.

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