Episode 31: Soraya Cruz - Creating a Model Life

Soraya Cruz is a model based in New York City and Amsterdam.

Instagram and all episodes

Resources:

Model Alliance: confidential assistance for workers within the fashion industry

New York State Fashion Workers Act: establishes responsibilities for model management companies

Soraya's recommended and trusted agencies: Wilhelminia, IMG Models, DNA, NEXT, State Management, and Muse Model management

(00:00) An Unexpected Acting Workshop

(02:47) First Trip to New York

(05:18) Getting Scouted on the Street

(08:05) The Visa Challenge

(10:42) Leaving the Office Job

(13:21) Building a Portfolio in Cape Town

(16:08) The Energy of South Africa

(19:35) Returning to Europe and COVID Delays

(22:14) Adjusting to New York’s Modeling Scene

(26:02) Differences Between Markets

(30:18) Freedom, Adventure, and Growth

(35:07) The Business of Modeling Agencies

(39:14) TV Commercials and Lucrative Work

(42:55) Risks and Power Dynamics in the Industry

(46:40) Entering Modeling Later in Life

(49:02) Advice for Aspiring Models

(51:13) Building Structure Beyond Modeling

(53:45) Defining Success and Staying Grounded