We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vama Shah a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Vama, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As an Indian female model, being the only one in the room who looks like me has been both a challenge and a source of empowerment. In an industry that often lacks representation for South Asian women, I’ve learned to turn this uniqueness into a strength rather than see it as an obstacle.
One of the key ways I’ve learned to be effective is by fully embracing my identity. I see my heritage, my features, and my background as assets that set me apart, allowing me to offer something fresh and diverse to the industry. Rather than trying to conform to mainstream standards of beauty, I’ve focused on highlighting what makes me different. This has helped me bring authenticity to my work and resonate with others who feel underrepresented.
I’ve also had to develop a strong sense of self-confidence and resilience. There are times when I’ve been in spaces where people didn’t understand or appreciate the cultural nuances I bring. Instead of letting that discourage me, I’ve leaned on my values, staying rooted in the purpose behind my work—creating space for other South Asian women to feel seen and validated.
In these situations, I’ve also found it crucial to advocate for myself and others. I’ve learned that being vocal about the importance of representation and inclusivity not only helps me succeed but also opens doors for future generations. It’s about turning what might feel like a disadvantage into a platform for positive change and making sure that, even when I’m the only one in the room who looks like me, I won’t be the last.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a South Asian model and actress, my work is rooted in creative expression and challenging the boundaries of representation, particularly in spaces where South Asian women are often underrepresented. What I find most exciting about my career is the opportunity to redefine traditional beauty standards and contribute to a broader narrative about the importance of diversity within the fashion and entertainment industries.
A key aspect of my work is my commitment to inclusivity. I am passionate about ensuring that South Asian women are seen and celebrated in meaningful ways, and I strive to create a space where we can take pride in our cultural identity and unique beauty. It is especially important to me to inspire and empower younger South Asian girls who may not often see themselves reflected in the mainstream media, and to demonstrate that they too can excel in these industries.
Currently, one of the most exciting developments in my career is the growing emphasis on diversity and representation. I have had the privilege of collaborating with brands and creatives who share my vision for inclusivity, and together we are working to foster a more open and accepting industry.
In the coming months, I am excited to be involved in several new projects that will further expand my work. These include collaborations that explore the intersection of modern creativity and South Asian culture, I look forward to continuing my efforts to highlight diversity and amplify the voices of those who are often overlooked in these spaces.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as a model and actress are perseverance, self-confidence, and adaptability.
Perseverance has been essential, especially in an industry that often lacks representation for women like me. There were many instances when I faced rejection or felt like I didn’t fit the conventional mold, but continuing to push forward, even when it seemed difficult, helped me carve out my own space. For those early in their journey, I would encourage them to stay focused on their goals, even when they face obstacles. Success is rarely immediate, but persistence will always pay off in the long run.
Self-confidence has also played a pivotal role in my development. As a South Asian woman, I quickly learned that embracing my unique identity and being proud of who I am is what sets me apart. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison, but true confidence comes from understanding that your individuality is your greatest asset. I advise those just starting out to invest in their self-esteem. Whether it’s through practice, positive self-talk, or surrounding yourself with supportive people, cultivating confidence will help you stand tall in any room.
Finally, adaptability has been key in navigating the ever-changing nature of the modeling and entertainment industries. Every project and opportunity is different, and the ability to learn quickly and adjust to new environments, feedback, and trends is crucial. To develop this skill, I suggest staying open-minded, being willing to try new things, and learning from each experience, even if it doesn’t go as planned. Flexibility is essential for growth.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace these qualities—be relentless in your pursuit of your goals, trust in your unique voice, and remain open to change and growth. These qualities will help you navigate your path with confidence and resilience.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who values diversity, creativity, and authenticity. They understand the importance of representation and are genuinely committed to creating inclusive spaces for underrepresented voices, particularly for South Asian women.
Collaboration is also key, so I look for clients who value open communication and a shared vision. An ideal client is someone who is open to new ideas, willing to push boundaries, and embraces fresh perspectives. Whether in modeling or acting, I thrive when working with people who are passionate about telling stories that matter and creating content that resonates on a deeper, more meaningful level.
Ultimately, a client who recognizes the power of uniqueness and is aligned with my mission of fostering inclusivity and visibility is the type of partner I am most excited to work with. This mutual respect and shared goal of challenging industry norms make for the most impactful collaborations.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @vamaa.xo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vama-shah-046130219/
Image Credits
Daniel Turbert
Allan Fuller
Dimitri Williams
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
