The Mexican model who's living her dream!

'When I was young and someone gifted me new clothes, I would wear it, stand in front of the mirror and pose. 

'Modelling in India is like a dream come true'

Mexican model Edna Abigail gets candid about how she came to choose modelling, life in India and more.

All of 21, this is Edna Abigail's first fashion show away from home.

She is from Mexico and is visiting India for the first time to participate in the ongoing Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai.

In the last two days, she has already walked for ace designers including Payal Singhal and Vaishali Shadangule among others, an experience she says has been "wonderful and exciting".

Minutes ahead of a show, we caught up with the model who spoke about her everyday challenges and what endears her the most about India.

From Mexico to India, how’s the journey been for you?

Modelling in India is like a dream come true.

When I was young and someone gifted me new clothes, I would wear it, then stand in front of the mirror and pose with childlike excitement.

I also liked to wear make-up and try out new stuff.

So, when I grew up, I knew I wanted to become a model. 

I have done quite a few shows in Mexico, but getting an assignment in India came as a surprise.

And walking for a big brand like Lakme is definitely an advantage.

It's a whole new learning experience.

Lakme Fashion Week: Full Coverage

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What do you like about India?

I had never visited India before but I had heard a lot about the country.

Before coming here, I was a little apprehensive, because I didn't know the language or did not have any friends here.

But once I landed, I realised that India is a lot like Mexico.

The people here are very warm, friendly and joyful.

Although I occasionally miss my family, I have managed to make a few friends here.

I'm getting used to the people, food and culture here.

What is the most challenging part about being a model?

Time management.

Sometimes all you get is a few seconds to change into a new outfit backstage.

There is so much chaos around you, but you have to be focussed.

If there are shows happening back to back, you'll have to be real quick.

You must also ensure that you eat well to stay energetic throughout the show.

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How do you stay so fit? What’s your diet like?

(Laughs) I don't think I'm fit enough. It takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice to stay in shape. I try and avoid most gluten-based products; I stay away from bread, pasta and rice.

How do you protect your skin?

After the body, the skin is very important for every model.

I wash my face with water after a show is over to get rid of all the make-up.

It is important to scrub and exfoliate from time to time.

Your body and skin needs at least five to six hours of sleep every day.

Otherwise you look tired and it shows on your face.

Your advice to aspiring models…

It's not easy to become a model.

There's a lot of hard work involved -- right from getting the right body to being able to work under pressure situations.

More importantly, you need to work with a good model agency who will fetch you new assignments.

As a model, you will have to travel to different places, which is fun but you will also meet and have to work with difficult people.

If something is not working for you, you cannot complain or throw tantrums. You have to be patient and stay calm at all times.