Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Khan.
Hi Karina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Modeling saved my life. I was very sick in 2021, being in and out of the ER and being diagnosed with a thyroid disease. I was on medical leave and was laying in bed thinking it was the end of my normal life. I was very unmotivated, depressed, feeling like a sickly person, until someone invited me to do a photoshoot. Since I had the time, I figured I’d go for it. When the photos came back, I was so turned around. “This person looks healthy, happy, fit…. and not sick” I thought, “and that’s me”. I started putting my time and energy into modeling and when the photos came back I was so happy and felt normal. I decided to dedicate myself even more and cut out my unhealthy habits, work on my fitness, skin, and diet. I tried so hard and went into remission. Thinking I was going to die, with no energy, in a wheelchair at the hospital, to walking on stage in runway fashion shows was the dream I thought I would never achieve. After feeling so close to death, you really want to live with no regrets, which is my promise to myself. My goals are to show other women, especially in my ethnicity, that feeling beautiful (and healthy) is powerful. I believe the confidence that modeling gives is something everyone should experience, so I will continue to uplift others in any way possible.
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?
I definitely had some obstacles and learning experiences. My height is definitely an obstacle for me, mainly for runway modeling. A lot of agencies and runway castings will not even look at you if you aren’t at least 5’7″. It is because the designs will look best with that kind of height.
Some learning experiences were from working with photographers. I learned a lot about working with people, and working with other creatives. Boundaries and communication is necessary.
Professionalism is everything. I find that photographers and designers have all liked to work with me, and I think, despite my height, they would hire me again because of good communication, attentiveness, taking direction well, and I’ve been told that I’m kind.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a model of 3 years, I’ve had a myriad of experiences. I’ve done product modeling for jewelry, boats, paddle boards, hats, etc. I have done runway fashion shows for swimwear and Indian bridal. I mainly get hired to do photoshoots for venue ads, fashion designers, photography portfolios, and ads for experiences/services. I love all of it! Lately, brands have been sending me products to try or wear and make content with, which is more of an influencer role. I think this is due to my following. I enjoy that as well, but I love working face to face with others more.
I specialize in swimwear. I love bikinis and swim fashion! I feel like that is what I’m most known for. I definitely try to consistently work out for this reason. I just want to look my best.
I’m proud that I’ve walked the runway for Miami Swim Week, which I would love to do again. Also, I once dipped into acting for a small role in a 411 PAIN commercial, which was very out of my comfort zone but I’m glad I did it.
I think what sets me apart from others is my look. I am half Peruvian and half Bengali. Others tell me that I look ethnically ambiguous, which I believe gives me more opportunities in modeling. There is not a saturation of models of my ethnicity, so I feel like it is very marketable for someone to have a model of my features to model their designs and products.
What matters most to you?
My health is my priority. I am lucky enough to have this passion for modeling that aligns with me being as healthy as possible. It is a great motivation for me to keep on track. I want to stay healthy for my own sake, but also to maintain the look for modeling.
Contact Info:
- Website: Ultimatetalentglobal.com/models/karina
- Instagram: @Hypermewww
Image Credits
Dan DiGiovanni Chris Clay Jacob Orlando Tan Vo Rick Cox Seth Hausler Pure Reflections Photography
