This December, as the year winds down, our beautiful talent Elsa Vouga joined us for a cozy conversation about her world, her work, and what keeps her inspired.

How did you become a model?
I was scouted when I was 18, in my school library. Modeling had never crossed my mind before, but when the opportunity presented itself, I decided to give it a try! But if I’m being completely honest, my answer would be that I’m still becoming a model. This job is such an ongoing learning experience. Every shoot, every client, every country teaches you something new and different. And beyond the technical skills like posing, I’ve learned that modeling is also about shaping a persona, understanding how people perceive you, and more importantly, learning how you want to express yourself in that context. That part takes time, experience, and confidence, at least for me 🙂

When you’re not on set or traveling, how do you like to recharge?
I recharge by doing things that feel grounding, by pursuing interests and activities that might get pushed aside when I’m working or travelling. I journal, I go on runs, I read, or just do nothing. I also love making things with my hands — cooking, painting. And of course, I see my friends and indulge in the occasional night out.

Tell us 3 things that make you unique.
I’m very honest — almost too much. I write letters to people I love for almost any occasion. And I’m an overthinker, unfortunately.

What is the best compliment that you’ve ever received?
I don’t know if you would qualify it as a compliment or as advice, but it’s certainly my favourite thing anyone has said to me: “You are the woman you think you are.”

What is your favorite thing about your career?
My favourite thing is that I get to travel so much. I love discovering new cities and new ways of living. Being a model allows you to learn so much about the world. However, being away from your close friends and family can be very isolating, so in my case, I’ve had to learn how to enjoy doing things alone and, more importantly, how to meet people and connect with them easily. I have to confess that I am a very shy person, and I often struggle with new environments. So this job has really pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me to be more socially comfortable, and I’m very proud of that!

What’s one thing you wish people asked you about more often?
Nothing in particular, really. I find it more interesting to get to know a person than to talk about myself. But I do enjoy when someone simply takes time to ask questions about me. I often feel stuck in the usual “who I am” speech people do when they introduce themselves — myself included — so it’s always nice to share beyond that.

What goal do you want to accomplish in the next few years?
My goal right now is to get my own place and to start university.

To see Elsa’s full Portfolio please klick here.