Somali | Fashion Model | Pre-Med Student

Zahra Moosa, Somali fashion model | Minneapolis, MN found her way to modeling via an interest in fashion design; however, she realized early on that fashion designing was not for her. In the early days of deciding what area in fashion she wanted to participate in, she pivoted to modeling. She knew that she enjoyed the world of fashion, the photos, styles, and clothes but to be a fashion designer, she would need to sketch, and this one area was what she found most challenging. She did not enjoy drawing the needed skill of sketching to design clothes. With this in mind, a suggestion from her siblings, and knowing that she loves fashion, she maintained her interest in fashion and pivots to modeling.

Zahra speaks five languages, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, Somali, and English. Moreover, an additional insightful tidbit is that her love of biology and interest in public health, and the desire to bring awareness to people of the importance of public health has put her on the path to a career in health as well. She will begin her medical studies in the Caribbean this Spring to fulfill her dream of becoming a physician. Zahra is surprisingly personable and open provides a peek into who she is during the interview. In one instance, she states, “I’m very funny; I’ve a goofy side and I’m interested in science fiction and true crime documentaries”.

Being a Somali fashion model in Minneapolis comes with its own challenges as it is not New York or Los Angeles, she states; however, she overcomes, perseveres, and continues to enjoy modeling. So, take a few minutes and share in her story of insights, experiences, and opportunities.

Elaine | How old were you when you had your first audition? And after the audition were you chosen?

Zahra | My first audition was at my Meredith Model Talent Agency, I was 20 years old. The reason why I was not chosen was that I had no experience nor was I a professionally trained model.

Elaine | What was the first feeling you felt when you walked the runway for your first show. And do you recall the emotion or emotions you felt at the end of your first fashion show?

Zahra | Yes, I definitely recall that feeling till now. I was nervous and excited. Since I was not trained, I had a hard time walking in high heels.

Elaine | Will you continue to work as a fashion model going forward or do you have other plans for your future? What does your future look like?

Zahra | I definitely have plans to attend medical school but will always continue modeling.

Elaine | In what area or areas of fashion modeling do you prefer to work? Print|runway, commercial, etc.

Zahra | I prefer runway and often I get modeling opportunities for runways.

Elaine | Are there any areas in modeling that you would like to participate in that you have not yet worked in?

Zahra | Yes, I would love to participate in commercial, print, and hand modeling opportunities.

Elaine | What kind of modeling do you often find that you are hired?

Zahra | Runway.

Elaine | What two fashion shows have you participated in within the last three years and choose one show that you would like to share regarding your experience.

Zahra | I participated in the UMN Fashion Show at the University of Minnesota for three years in a row. I also took part in Sisterhood Boutique Fashion Show. Both experiences were very rewarding. During the UMN Fashion Show, I was approached by a Muslim man and he said he loves how I am representing a Muslim black woman and how diversity and inclusivity are essential.

Elaine | How are you compensated for participating in a show or event? And is there a need for a more supportive compensation than currently exists for aspiring and freelance fashion models?

Zahra | I feel like experienced and freelance models should definitely be paid more. Before I was signed with agencies, I would do each show or event for free because I was still learning and wasn’t experienced. But now that I am trained and signed with agencies, all jobs are paid.

Elaine | How were you compensated in the past for modeling at events, shows, etcetera?

Zahra | Well, before I was signed with agencies, I would model at events or shows for family and friends.

Elaine | What is that you believe you bring to every fashion show that you have participated in?

Zahra | I bring individuality, uniqueness, different style, and swag.

Elaine | How often would you say that you participated in fashion shows or events prior to COVID-19?

Zahra | Six to ten fashion shows or events a year.

Elaine | Have you modeled outside of the Minneapolis | St. Paul area?

Zahra | No, unfortunately, due to Covid all events outside the Twin Cities were not possible.

Elaine | Do you participate in other activities outside of modeling?

Zahra | I play soccer, volleyball, and yoga.

Elaine | Are you a freelance fashion model or currently contracted with an agent or agency?

Zahra | I am considered both as I am not bound to only work with one agency. The agencies I chose were based in my state so I got more work opportunities and also they are ranked the best in the Twin Cities.

Elaine | How do you go about finding modeling opportunities and would you recommend hiring an agent?

Zahra | Yes, I do have modeling agents. But before I was signed, I would connect with designers and photographers. They are a very good source for an aspiring fashion model.

Elaine | Did you attend a modeling school? If so, what was your experience?

Zahra | Yes, I attended a modeling and acting school called John Casablanca. I chose to attend because I wanted to be a professionally trained model. The school really helped me become who I am today. I learned a lot from them.