With her angelic photogenic looks and unbeatable self-confidence, 21-year-old Niti Shah, who was recently crowned Miss Nepal International 2017, has managed to steal the hearts of many Nepali youths. Prior to winning the crown, she was also the first runner-up of Face of En Vogue, House of Fashion 2013. Her face often peeks at you from the covers of magazines like Teenz, VOW, and Naari to name a few and she has been a prominent part of TGIF Nepal Fashion week. The Week’s Ashma Chhetri caught up with Shah to have her tell us a little more about her journey so far.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in modeling?
To be honest, I never had plans to take up modeling as a career even though I had always been fascinated by the world of modeling. Whenever I used to see magazine covers featuring Ahilya Sharma or Subani Moktan, I would always dream of seeing myself on one too someday. Luckily, I was approached for a modeling assignment and there has been no looking back since then. But it’s still largely a hobby and passion rather than a career choice. 
How do you spend your free time?
I’m a workaholic who likes to keep busy. At the moment, my schedule is pretty tight with preparations for Miss International but even when I hadn’t been crowned, I was a studying, interning, and modeling as well. I wanted and had many things to do. I still prefer being engaged in some productive work instead of spending time lazing about. You will actually find me doing something or the other even when I have some free time from work. 

Who is your role model?
I can’t really name one person who I look up to. But I have always been inspired by optimistic people and those who approach life with a good attitude. If I have to choose someone who I think I can learn a lot from then it would definitely be former Miss Nepal Malvika Subba. She just exudes this vibe that is uplifting. I also like Oprah because her story itself is motivating and she tells all these stories through inspiring videos. 

How do you handle stressful situations?
Success comes with a lot of responsibilities and stress is a natural part of that. Ever since my first modeling assignment, I have been quite stressed out about having to pick good projects. I want to do good work and not be mediocre, and it’s that thought that creates this pressure at the back of my head that is a source of much anguish. Also, long practice hours on the ramp can get quite tiring. But I think my enduring capacity helps me adapt to different situations and move on. 

Apart from winning the title of Miss Nepal International, tell us another thing you are proud about.
I’m just at the starting point of my journey but I think, for a 21-year-old, I have achieved quite a bit and that fact is something I take pride in. Also, my fan following amazes me. I feel blessed to be loved by so many people and it’s something that will always make me feel good about myself. 

What’s your beauty secret?
I never miss my workout sessions. Regular exercise is what keeps me fit and energetic and I would never compromise on it. Also, you are what you eat so I pay special attention to my diet plan. I make sure I eat a lot of greens and stay away from oily and spicy food. 

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I’m planning to go abroad for my masters’ degree in the near future, after which I want to get into the field of entrepreneurship. In five years time, I believe I will have achieved a lot more than I have now because I have every intention of working hard to succeed in life. 

 
• living her dream
 
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