Danea Panta - winner of Peru Next Top Model
Photographer: Kamal Mostofi | IG: @kmphotographyuk
Makeup artist: Zydre Zilinskaite | IG: @zydrezi
Can you tell us bit about yourself? When and how did you get into modelling?
My name is Danea Panta. I’m from Peru and 25 years old.
Basically I get into modelling since I won Peru’s Next Top Model. I was doing modelling in Peru and also TV hosting but nothing so big.
How did your life changed after Next Top Model Peru 2013 show? What did you learn from it?
After the PNTM show my life changed a lot, first because I became a public figure so all my steps were exposed and second because I started to take my modelling career very seriously so I was living a model life 24/7.
PNTM was very intense; it was a reality show, so I learned a lot from there. I learned how pose, how use my body to express myself, change my facial expressions with each click of the camera because if you didn’t get the picture, judges can eliminate you in that episode.
What does modelling mean to you?
It is my life, my passion, my dream, my job, my everything. Everything that I have, everyone that I met, every city that I visit is thanks to the modelling. I learn a lot with my modelling career and it’s something that I’m very grateful for.
You’ve traveled and worked as a model all around the world. How different is the beauty perception in different countries or continents?
In Asia they like the models that look similar to them with little exceptions of course. In America they like the opposite- the exotic, the mix of the ethnicity and in Europe- a mix of everything. I think there is a market for everyone. And the modelling business is changing so much now. Now is other era where the physical beauty is not enough, you need something else, that X factor.
You became Miss Peru International 2016, how did you feel about it? What responsibilities came with a title?
Being a model and a beauty queen are two di erent things, even though many people say that it’s the same or similar; I would say no. For me it was a big challenge because when I decide to participate in this beauty contest my career as a model was in the best moment. The biggest responsibility is to represent your country and for Latino- America the beauty contest is like football for England- it’s a very important competition.
What are your career highlights so far?
I did editorials for important magazines, I signed with the best agencies. I worked for an amazing brands. I also traveled a lot. I was so lucky to be success in all the markets that I’ve been.
What does beauty mean to you?
For me beauty is not just about appearance or how you look like; it’s about who you are as a person. I find humble, simple, kind and inspiring people beautiful.
Does prejudice and discrimination still exist within fashion?
I think not just in fashion, everywhere.
Having great skin for model is really important, what are your top three tips for keeping skin flawless?
The first and most important tip for me is to have a healthy life- no alcohol, no cigarettes, no parties. As a young girl I know that having fun is important in our age but creating a balance is the secret. And of course keep yourself hydrated.
What are your beauty essentials?
Argan oil for my hair and lip balm for my lips.
What would be your advice for aspiring models?
Don’t take anything personally in this industry. Always remember that if someone is saying no to you in that moment, don’t look at it as a set back. Look at it as though they are saying no to what they are looking for at that moment. You are and can continue to be a model.
If you had 24 hours to do anything you wanted, what would it be?
Chilling on the beach!
Where our readers can see your work and keep in touch with you?
Instagram: daneapanta Facebook: Danea Panta Twitter: @daneapanta Snapchat: daneapanta