Bollywood and Beyond

Good day my advertising adventurers,
As I know I have told you in previous posts, when I was growing up I immersed myself in Fashion magazines and I used to have Fashion TV on repeat all day during the summer holidays – I just couldn’t get enough. When I was in my early 20’s, I was scouted by a talent agency whilst waiting for my mum outside Sloane Square station. This quickly led to me having a portfolio shoot done in a top London studio which was an amazing experience. I feel extremely lucky to have been in a few adverts on television and I also was an extra on the Pride of Britain Awards where I got to meet an air stewardess who delivered a baby mid flight – she was truly inspirational. Even though my career in the industry has been put on hold for now, I have the utmost respect for people who have worked so hard  and overcame such rejection and competition to become successful in the entertainment industry which leads me perfectly onto the third installment of my interview trilogy. Please can  I introduce to you one of my cousins, Carla Dennis.
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Hi Carla, thank you so much for agreeing to do this interview. For those of my followers who are not yet familiar with you, can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do for a living?

Hi Keya, My name is Carla, I am a South African Fashion model and trained actress residing in Mumbai. I have recently completed my first Bollywood film.

Have you always wanted to model or did you have another dream job when you were growing up?

A chef

What made you move to Mumbai from Cape Town?

During law school in Pretoria, South Africa I was scouted by an editor from Vogue India during the IPL matches. I thereafter became a finalist in Miss Bollywood representing Shah Rukh Khan’s team – The Kolkata Knight Riders.

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In your opinion, what is the best thing about moving overseas?

The ability to discover many new cultures and to grow mentally, spiritually and intellectually outside of your comfort zone.

Do you prefer high fashion shoots or television advertising campaigns?

Each are fun and exciting but my true love is television advertising campaigns which allows me to act.

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Do you have a strict diet and exercise plan or are you more of a everything in moderation person?
I do not believe in diets, what matters most to me is being healthy and eating nutritionally dense foods. My eating plan consists of mostly fruits, vegetables, lean protein, plenty of water and nuts. Vitamins and supplements are very important to ensure my immunity and antioxidants are intact. I have a cheat day once a week which includes everything from sushi to ramen.  I also have an exercise plan which includes weight lifting, kickboxing, Pilates and dance.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

An organic food brand owner, an established actress, living by the sea with my huge family and dogs.

If you could give any advice to my readers who are looking to break out in the modelling industry what would it be?

 Always believe in yourself. Don’t allow anyone to stand in the way of your destiny. Go for what you want and work hard.  A positive attitude , dedication, confidence and a good aura will take you to the top. As Aaliyah quoted: ‘If at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off and try again’.
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Just as a bit of fun here is a quick fire round Carla. Which out of the two do you prefer?
Hair – Curly or straight? Straight
Smokey eye or bold lips? Bold Lips
Dress and heels or trainers and gym wear? Trainers and Gym Wear
Winters cosy by the fire or swimming in the ocean during summer? Ocean for sure
Boxing or yoga? Boxing
Salad or a burger? Salad
Career driven or happy go lucky? Both
Thank you so much for taking part in this interview Carla, I wish you continuing success in your already stellar career. For anyone wishing to keep up to date with Carla you can see her soon in the Abbas Mustan Bollywood movie “Machine” or follow her on Instagram @carlaruthdennis.
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until next time, take care
Keya x

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