With spring in full bloom, we’re spotlighting Tsion Teferi as our April Talent of the Month. We caught up with her for a quick conversation to get a glimpse of her world.

1. How did you become a model?
I was 16, back home in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, when a friend who knew about my interest in modeling sent me an ad for a scouting event happening in my city. I decided to go last minute despite my skepticism.
Long story short, I was one of the only models scouted from the 500+ people who showed up. I couldn’t imagine what would have happened if I hadn’t taken that chance that day.
Two years later, at 18, I signed with my current MA, The Hunt Management. Shoutout to Mélie!

2. What does a perfect lazy Sunday look like for you?
Ouu, waking up with no alarm, listening to a podcast while making breakfast (it has to be savory), then heading to the coffee shop two minutes from my place to grab a coffee and a sweet treat to go along with a long walk. Or, if it’s raining (which it often does in London), I’ll get cozy with a cup of tea and a one-season series I can binge-watch in a day.

3. What’s something about you that people are always surprised to learn?
When I tell people where I’m from, they’re often surprised. I love asking people to guess, and I typically get answers like Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Somalia, or sometimes even India.
Plus, my neutral English accent doesn’t really help.

4. What’s a small personal goal you’re working on that you’re excited about?
I’m currently learning French. My goal is to at least understand spoken French by July. I get so excited when I understand a phrase that would have been complete gibberish to me just two months ago.

5. What is your favorite thing about your career?
I love getting to meet new people all the time—from different backgrounds and cultures all over the world. I get to learn from their perspectives and experiences.
Connecting, even through shared smiles and small talk, is so beautiful to me.

6. What’s been the most empowering moment of your career so far—the one you’ll never forget?
It took me a while to realize, but having time freedom has been incredibly empowering. Not a lot of careers offer that kind of flexibility, and I’m really grateful for it.
Now I’m much more intentional about how I spend my time when I’m not working.

7. What’s something you do just for yourself, no matter how busy life gets?
Self-care is definitely my number one priority right now. Even if I’ve woken up at 5 a.m. on five hours of sleep, worked 10 hours, and just got home from the airport at 11 p.m., I’ll still take time to take care of and nurture my mind, body, and soul.
Whether it’s a simple hygiene routine, an easy stretch, or a quick journal—even if it’s the bare minimum—I make sure I do it.

To see Tsion’s full Portfolio please klick here.