Team Tinkerfeed [TWB]:
What motivated you to be a model?
Mona Varonica Campbell [MVC]:
I was inclined towards fashion industry and right from my childhood I always wanted to walk on the runway. When I moved to Canada for a short stint, a few local brands approached me and asked me If I could model for them. That kind of boosted my confidence. Later when I moved to India ,I got opportunity to walk for a few regional designers – Wajahat Mirza ,a London based designer (season 1 and season 2) as well as Faces of Africa gave me an opportunity as a show stopper. These wonderful opportunities given to me made me feel that I could be confident at any size shape color and gender and then I grabbed it and achieved success.
TWB: How was your journey from giving the auditions for Wendell Rodrick’s Collection to being a show opener?
MVC: I heard about the auditions happening for plus -size models and was pleased to know that, it was providing opportunities for Trans-women, with an encouragement from my family, I went ahead for the auditions for the Lakme platform and got selected as one of the top Finalists in professional runway model category, and my dream took wings as I realized that I was walking to my favorite designer ,Opening and closing his show means being Show stopper – wow -Wendell Rodricks creation, I am very grateful to Lakme for this opportunity . Though Wendell was one of the best person I have worked with, he took good care of me at the backstage. He ensured an exclusive team for hair and makeup too. He was there while we are rehearsing for the show. Its was a dream to walk with such a huge team and he ensured my comfort and attention. I feel proud and confident being the first Indian transgender Professional plus size model.
TWB: What inspired you to put up your own makeup label?
MVC: I love makeup right from my childhood. Once I was done with Post Graduation from LONDON SCHOOLS OF FASHION, I got an opportunity to work with MAC cosmetics, Canada Ontario. I worked with them as makeup artist as well trainer and then I decided to come back to India(HYDERABAD). I then started my own Signature label , called VARONICA MAKEUP ARTISTRY (CELEBRITY SECRETS). My life has changed after beginning with my own Makeup business line, professional makeup artist and created a niche for myself in the Glamour World.
TWB: What difficulties you faced during your journey in Fashion World?
MVC: Fashion industry is not a very easy industry,to survive in. Its a high in competition, as well, I read about the auditions and I went for it and I am happy that i cracked the auditions with my unique looks and my walk, though i don’t have a godfather.
TWB: Did you face any opposition from your family for modeling?
MVC: Nope my family and friends are my Backbone. They are very well known about my plans and dreams. They support each and every decision I make for my future.
TWB: Did people around you supported in each and every decision you made?
MVC: Of Course yes they did.
TWB: What are your future plans?
MVC: One of checklist is to be India’s Super model in the Plus size category and bagging the title. I want to come up with my own Signature clothing line for plus size women.
TWB: What message would you like to give our readers who might be afraid to show up their true identity due to the fear of acceptance?
MVC: Just be who you are, believe in yourself, follow your dreams, be confident, be bold.
