Fashion Peach

By Catalina Castillo

Being a model in Colombia can open new job opportunities, however, dedicating 100% to this career and making your way on international catwalks implies a great challenge.

Currently in Colombia many models are making their way on the catwalks. Karina Prado and Valentina Castro, are an example among many women who project themselves as great models allowing new faces to practice in this profession.

Karina Prado, from Cali, captivated my interest because of her photographic impact and professional profile. Her catwalk is impeccable, she is a multifaceted woman, she studied acting and since she was 22 years old, she has worked in the world of modeling. Karina shares a little of her life.

«The most difficult thing in our environment is the lack of regularization of our work, there is a lack of laws that accredit modeling as a true profession«

What do you think of modeling in Colombia?

Modeling is part of an artistic branch and therefore, like other activities related to art, it has not been given real support, we are not yet covered by laws that promote the perception of this career as a respectable profession and some see it as a hobby.  Now, if we talk about models, photographers and other equipment, the raw material of Colombia is wonderful.

What do you consider to be the biggest challenge to succeed in this career?

The biggest challenge is to have a true conviction that being a model is your passion. If you are faithful to this belief and have discipline, perseverance, and humility, you will be able to adapt to the circumstances, you will overcome the tests and success will come.

«Modeling is part of an artistic branch, like other activities related to art, it has not been given real support, we are not yet covered by laws that promote the perception of this career as a respectable profession«

What advice would you give to young people who want to start with this profession?

I advise them to see it as a professional career, that will give them the awareness to train. Then, they must be very constant and disciplined, because like any career, they must make sacrifices and commit 100%.

What is the most difficult thing about being a model in Colombia?

The most difficult thing in our environment is the lack of regularization of our work, there are still laws that accredit modeling as a true profession. It is very difficult to optimally exercise our trade when there are no guarantees in dignified treatment, surveillance, payments and so on.

Apart from modeling, would you like to work in another field?

In acting for film and television.

How do you project yourself professionally?

My biggest dream is to model abroad for haute couture brands and take advantage of that platform to venture into acting, a career that I had the opportunity to study at university.

What book are you reading now?

I am currently reading James Clear’s Atomic Habits.