To top
20 Jul

Model Watch: Hana Y.

One of the things that I enjoy the most about blogging is having a platform to inspire, share, support and promote up and coming local talents right here in the Tampa Bay community. I was first introduced to Hana during a Tim Gunn event when the beautiful model walked for former Project Runway contestant and designer Rami Kashou (see post here). Not only is she gorgeous, but she is such a natural beauty with a warm and humble spirit. I had the ability to chat with the lovely model recently. Check out our Q&A session below where she gives us some personal insight on her background as a model, her inspirations, future aspirations and clears up common misconceptions about her fellow peers in the industry. 
“A smart model is a good model.”
-Tyra Banks

  
Q: Where are you originally from?
 
A: I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. I moved down to Wesley Chapel in 1997 and been a Floridian ever since!

 
Q: Who were your role model(s) as a child and how did they influence you to become a model?
 
A: My mom has been my role model since I was little, she’s always been supportive with any activities/interests I had, which was a lot lol. I just happened to try it when I was a child which I enjoyed. Then was approached by Elite NY when I was fourteen, but never went through with it or pursued modeling until a few years ago.

 
Q: How did you feel when you did your first ever fashion show or editorial photo shoot?
 
A: My first show was Fashion Week Tampa Bay a few years ago, it was really fun and intriguing. Watching the hustle and bustle right before the show is always exciting and the nerves is a great feeling hahaha.

 
Q: What are your guilty pleasure foods?
A: Oh gosh, like anything chocolate….or pastries….I love sweets like no other!

 
Q: What artist or choice of music is playing in the background when you are working with the glam squad to get photo shoot fresh?
 
A: I usually let the MUA pick, and play what most of the squad would want to listen to. I literally listen to almost every genre of music so I love everything from house music to oldies to alternative to classical lol.

 
Q: What beauty tips do you swear by?
 
A: I wasn’t blessed with the perfect complexion, so sometimes my face will get irritated after shoots and shows. Best tip I use regularly would be covering my face with honey after a shower when I get home and leave it on for about half an hour to help soothe irritations.

 
Q: Name one designer that you would love to rip the runway for?
 
A: There are so many. But I’d have to say Elie Saab!
 
Q: Favorite clothing item in your closet?
A: My maxi skirt, lazy days best friend!

Q: Paris or London?
A: Paris of course!

Q: One misconception about models that you would love to clear up?
A: Hmmm—probably that models aren’t bright/intelligent. Most of the models I’ve come across are in school full-time, have a successful career outside of modeling, or are mature beyond their years. In order to succeed in an industry like this, you definitely have to hustle, learn quickly, be disciplined and keep a strong head on your shoulders.

A woman of my own heart. I’m such a lover of sweets too. *gives a huge exacerbating sigh* I so know the feeling of having to clear up common misconceptions in an industry with heavy emphasis on physical aesthetics. It’s as if intelligence and beauty are mutually exclusive.  Wishing you much success doll. I will be looking forward to see you grace the runways locally and beyond. You can connect with Hana here. Peace, Love & Blessings!