Today we’d like to introduce you to Ameera Surka.
Hi Ameera, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I had just turned 18 years old and I was at a turning point in my life. I had decided that college wasn’t my path, though I had always imagined it would be. I felt shame for veering off the path I had perfectly planned in my head and found myself in a dark place. Once I processed those feelings, I realized that I needed to see myself in a different light. I set up my first photoshoot and fell in love with being in front of the camera! I was nervous and stiff at first and it showed in the photos, but after a couple more shoots I felt more natural posing. I was hesitant at first to consider making a career out of modeling, as I know the entertainment industry is extreme. But I realized that I had a natural talent and had finally found something that made me happy. I felt my most authentic self when I was in front of the camera and felt like if I pushed myself, I could be great! I did freelance shoots for a couple of years but eventually, life got in the way and I took a year off. December of 2020, I decided I wasn’t going to let life stop me from doing what I love anymore and hit the ground running, networking with photographers and magazines. By January I had landed an internationally published advertorial for Nairobi Professional Hair products in SHEEN Magazine. This was only the beginning! Shortly after in February I was published in a body positivity piece in Misfits Magazine, based out of Ohio. I continued to do freelance work through the Spring but eventually work got slower and slower and I felt discouraged. I wasn’t ready to give up yet. I realized that in order to be a print model with consistent work, I needed an agent. The stars aligned and Takiyah Green of TAG Esthetics and I began our working relationship in late July. Less than 30 days in, she had me in a runway/posing class with Americas Next Top Model, Keenyah Hill, and a shot at the runway in New York Fashion Week. I took the class and learned so much about the industry; I felt ready. I had the honor of walking for 2 designers at the September 2021 NYFW. This was a pivotal point in my career as it served as a huge motivator and confidence booster. I felt on top of the world for months. It taught me immeasurable knowledge about navigating the industry and about myself as a model. I had the honor of walking NYFW February of 2022, for another two designers. The most important part of my presence at NYFW was to represent a demographic of people underrepresented in the US fashion industry—Indian women. I couldn’t have gotten here without my agent Takiyah, my mom, dad, and brother, and the countless photographers that took a chance on me in my early days! Since then, I have booked with designers, product lines, and concept photographers—and I’m only getting started!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have definitely been struggles along the way and moments I thought that I was going to quit. The first 3 years of my career I didn’t get published, I barely got paid and I began to doubt my dream. There have been many times that I have felt insufficient and not as pretty as other models. More recently, it’s learning to accept rejection at casting calls, from designers and photographers, and learning to cope with the rejection in an effective way. It’s also a large investment into yourself, especially in the beginning; so, learning when to say no to an opportunity because you have to eat and pay bills has also been a reality to face. Thankfully I have had unwavering support from my family and close friends that has made these struggles easier and well worth it!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a model and I specialize in print, brand ambassadorship, commercial, and petite runway modeling. Anyone that knows me or has worked with me will tell you I have an effervescent personality and I take pride in the work that I collaborate on and put out. I am most proud of my NYFW appearances. I was so honored to have the opportunity to represent Indian women and petite women around the world on a large platform. I got to live out my dream…twice! I think what sets me apart is my unique look, presence on set and drive to always perfect my craft and branch out. I am also a networking bee! I think that networking is 40% of being successful in any field.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My mom and dad have been incredibly supportive of my dream! Financially and providing emotional support on the hard days and cheering me on from the sidelines, they are definitely my biggest cheerleaders. Takiyah Green has played an instrumental part in helping me navigate the industry and book jobs. The many photographers that took a chance on me along the way. My best friend Emily has also been a driving force behind me. She has always encouraged me to go far with my modeling career and to never give up again on a dream that’s so well within reach! Not to mention the modeling community that I have built around me over the years who continue to support each other and bring opportunity to the table.
Contact Info:
- Email: Jobs.akmodels@gmail.com
- Website: www.akmodels.org
- Instagram: @aks.themodel
Image Credits
Joshua Gaffney Photography
Normac Jetz Photography
Vanna Co. Photography
Hillway Photography
Light Dance Photography
Jason Torres
Johnny Jones
