As she stood staring out into the crowd, her heart in her mouth, she felt as though time stood still. Surrounded by 20 other beautiful girls from across the country, all in designer evening gowns, Saaniya felt hopeful but apprehensive. She scanned the audience for her mother, hoping to find solace and comfort.

When their eyes met, she saw her mother’s face gleam with pride and joy, and in that moment, she realized that no matter the outcome, she is grateful. She is grateful for the experience, grateful for family and friends who persuaded her to go after her dreams, grateful for the new friends she made along the way, the teachers and the mentors she gained.

As she waited earnestly to hear the results, she knew with utmost certainty that irrespective of how the journey ends, she would do it all over again, in a heartbeat.

“And the Top Model Maldives 2019 is…… Saaniya”. Thunderous claps erupted from the hall, and it was then she realized, the journey has not ended. In fact, it has just begun.

For our special feature, we interviewed the talented and ever-perseverant Saaniya about her journey to winning the title of Top Model of Maldives, and then going on to represent the country in the Top Model of the Word, winning hearts with her wit, her candor and approachability. Ultimately, it was these aspects of her that helped her win the title of Miss Congeniality in an international pageant comprising of remarkable and exceptionally talented girls from all over the world.

My first time in the industry was when I joined Brides Maldives, a couple years back, as a runway model. Modelling has always been a dream since I was a little girl, and Brides Maldives seemed like the best platform at the time. I believe it was a great decision, since that was first time I was noticed and acknowledged as a professional model in the industry, and I started receiving modelling offers.

Initially, I did photoshoots for free, mostly for the experience and knowledge. This really helped me grow as a model and hone my talent. I am glad I did not give up and kept working, because now I have had the chance to walk on international runways and model for established global brands.

I have received both positive and negative comments, especially on my personal social media platforms. However, I always pay attention to the positive comments and the people who mean well, rather than the nay-sayers and bullies. If I were to pay heed to every person who has a biased opinion about me, I fear I might end up believing everything they say. So, I make sure I surround myself with positivity.

Most people have been very kind and warm, sharing advice, words of encouragement, and support.

Listening to music is vital during shoots. The music helps me relax and just enjoy myself. I listen to songs by Bebe Rhexa a lot, and some songs by Hose as well.

What I noticed the most is that everyone is so incredibly supportive, if I don’t have an item that I need, everyone is always willing to lend a hand. It was a competition, but everyone was so nice to each other, even the judges and the hosts. I gained so many friends that I believe I will keep for a lifetime.

For the shoots and modelling, I learnt how to do makeup on my own and prep myself for the shoots, which was something I never had to do before. All the girls were required to do their own makeup for the competition. I ended up loving the makeup that I did on myself.

I was incredibly proud to be there and proud of how far I had come. I can definitely say it was an experience that I learnt a lot from, I also realized that I still have a lot of work to do. For example, I still want to improve my makeup skills, and I watch a lot of Fashion TV, and read fashion magazines, to learn what is currently in style in the industry. I also watch the international and critically acclaimed models to try and emulate the work they do in my craft as well.

Yes, I sang Hallelujah acapella. I was really scared but proud that I did it, especially on such a big stage.

I am still doing photoshoots for different brands and advertisers across the country, while also balancing my studies in Clique College for a marketing degree.

Like many of us Saaniya too has a dream that she is still reaching for, the opportunity to “walk on the Sherihill ramp”, the famous clothing brand that started out in 2008 which now has over 800 stores, quite a big goal indeed.

Overall, it seems safe to say that the youth of our country is certainly made up of countless talented and creative individuals who work hard and fight for their dreams to become a simple reality. Our generation is one that is built from roots of passion and fierce determination, and that is exactly what is proven through the story of Saaniya. For those of you who’s tale is yet to be written keep your heads held high for the future truly is promising.