Q Share with us in summary your journey from classroom to runway?
After finishing school, I started focusing more on dance, something I had been passionate about since childhood. My interest in modelling grew because of my sister, Mayline. I used to support her at Colombo Fashion Week from 2020 onwards. Watching fashion shows like Versace and Chanel and following models like Bella Hadid, Alex Consani and Adriana Lima deepened my fascination. In 2021, I joined Panthera Management Agency in Sri Lanka at just fourteen (turning fifteen later that year). Initially, I had no idea what I was doing; walking in heels was a struggle! But my agency saw my potential even before I did. I trained myself by studying international models, taking tips from my sisters (Mayline and Yasmine), and working hard to refine my walk and poses. My first major show was Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Sri Lanka in December 2022, which was stressful but exciting. Since then, I’ve walked in multiple Sri Lankan fashion shows, including Colombo Fashion Week in 2024 and 2025.
Q When did you sign up with Ford?
I had my interview with Ford Models Paris on February 25, 2025, and signed with them the very next day. They immediately asked me to come to Paris for Fashion Week on February 28.
Q What was your initial reaction when you found out you’d be walking for Chanel at Paris Fashion Week?
I was in shock! It didn’t truly hit me until the day of the show. Walking for Chanel felt unreal, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to meet the team and be part of something so iconic.
Q Can you take us through your casting process for these high-end shows?
The first step is a general casting, where a large number of models participate. If I get a call-back, I then go through fittings. If confirmed for the show, my agency informs me. There’s a lot of competition, but it’s an exciting and fun experience.
Q How did it feel stepping onto the runway for such an iconic brand?
I felt so happy and proud of myself! Walking for Chanel was a dream come true and a huge milestone in my career.
Q What was the most memorable moment for you at Paris Fashion Week?
There were many memorable moments, but the highlight was opening the Isabel Marant show, it was my first time opening a show, and it was such an exhilarating experience.
Before stepping onto the runway, I took deep breaths and told myself, “You got this.”
Q Who did you walk for this Fashion Week?
This season, I walked for nine shows: Courrèges, Dries Van Noten, Rabanne, Isabel Marant (which I opened!), Hermès, Ann Demeulemeester, Duran Lantink, Chanel, and Moncler.
Q Were there any unexpected challenges during the shows?
Yes! On the second day of Paris Fashion Week, I got bad blisters on the back of my feet, making it extremely painful to walk. I also caught a slight flu midway through the week. But I pushed through!
Q How did you prepare, both physically and mentally, for the runway?
I made sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and stay hydrated. I reminded myself that this was a new environment and that it was okay to ask for help. Before stepping onto the runway, I took deep breaths and told myself, “You got this.”
Q What was the atmosphere like backstage before each show?
Surprisingly calm! Everyone was friendly and helpful. I had so much fun hanging out with the other models and the teams behind the scenes.
Q How did working with top designers, stylists, and makeup artists influence your perspective on fashion?
It was an honour working with such talented people. My perspective on fashion has expanded significantly, and I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved.
Q What were the fittings like, and how much input did you have in how you wore the clothes?
Fittings were really fun! I got to try different outfits, and the team carefully considered which ones suited me best. They checked how the clothes moved on the runway, took pictures, and made necessary adjustments.
Q Did you feel a connection to the designs or the creative vision of the show?
Absolutely. I love fashion shows and experiencing different environments. The whole process felt like an adventure.
Q What’s the key to exuding confidence on the runway?
Trust yourself! If you don’t believe in yourself, your confidence won’t shine through. Confidence starts from within.
Q As a half Sri Lankan model in the global fashion industry, what does this opportunity mean to you?
It means so much! I feel like I’ve opened doors for other Sri Lankan models who aspire to work in the international fashion industry. I’m proud to represent Sri Lanka on a global stage.
Trust yourself! If you don’t believe in yourself, your confidence won’t shine through.
Q How do you hope to inspire other young models from Sri Lanka or South Asia?
I hope I’ve inspired them to believe in themselves. If you put yourself out there and work hard, your dreams can come true!
Q What advice would you give to aspiring models who dream of walking for luxury fashion houses?
Mentally prepare yourself for a new environment where no one knows you at first. Be friendly with everyone; models, makeup artists, designers, casting directors. Take care of yourself by sleeping well and eating healthily. And most importantly, practice! The more you practice your walk and poses, the more confident you’ll become.
Q What’s next for you after this incredible Paris Fashion Week season?
I hope for more great opportunities to come my way, because you never know what the future holds!
