Prema Lamgade and Rya Shrestha won the WOW title in two of the most prestigious pageants in the country, Miss Universe Nepal and Face of Nepal. While Prema won the title of WOW Free & Fearless at Miss Universe Nepal 2023, Rya Shrestha won WOW Popular at Face of Nepal 2023.
They both were equally geared to show their confidence during this fashion editorial shoot. The mood board has pops of colour to capture the imagination and catch the eye. We also talk to the two upcoming models.
PREMA LAMGADE
Prema Lamgade is a content creator and model who actively participates in beauty pageants. Her digital content spans beauty, lifestyle and personal experiences which she avidly shares on her social media. She is committed to raising awareness about the harmful effects of bullying.
Prema won the title of WOW Free and Fearless in Miss Universe Nepal 2023. In a conversation with WOW, she talks about the fashion industry. Excerpts:
Why did you choose the glamour industry?
I have always been a dreamer, and I knew I was going to be big someday! Since childhood, I have loved to perform, sing and dance. Since I was good at academics, I always felt the pressure to go for something more academically validating. Later, as I started posting acts online, I realised this is what I love and what I am passionate about. I then stepped into the world of glamour. I started with social media content creation which then transitioned to my modelling journey.
Any major challenges you had to overcome?
Coming from a smaller city is already challenging, and also, belonging to a conservative family adds to it. I respect the values my family have because they have never seen all this in their life. I had to make them trust me and understand that I could make something of my life and make them proud.
How do you view pageantry over this time?
I participated in Miss Universe Nepal in 2023. I got to learn a lot about how one can improve the way they communicate and present themselves, and it has also taught me that anyone can be as powerful as anyone in the room with a confident voice.
Over the past years, I have seen that pageantry has become more inclusive of women, disregarding their gender, age, height, and marital preferences, and that’s inspiring for those who might have lost their voice and confidence.
What are you aspiring to – films, entertainment, modelling?
I have always been a huge Bollywood fan since childhood. I caricature dialogues and characters. I would dance to all our Nepali songs at school programmes and functions. I always wanted to be an actor and that’s the path I want to choose in the long term.
Given a choice, which actor do you want to debut with?
Given the opportunity, I would choose ‘Najir Hussain’ and ‘Saugat Malla.’ I love the way they act and their hard work. I find them very versatile.
What inspires you?
Growing up, I had to face a lot of financial issues and health problems, but it made me realise to not give up and that nothing can stop you if you are determined. Looking up to my mother, who has given us everything even when she had nothing, has taught me to go for what I believe in and am passionate about. She has been my biggest inspiration.
What’s next?
I am currently modelling and working with brands. I am also working on a few bigger projects. My next main goal is to do a movie and go forward in our Nepali film industry.
RYA SHRESTHA
Rya Shrestha is a freelancer and works as a model, content creator, manager and coordinator. He loves to travel and is a big foodie. For a year now, he has been working on content creation with a specific focus on the fashion field.
How did you enter the glamour industry?
My journey was quite funny. I did my first shoot for the money rather than being interested in becoming a model. I used to work a 9-6 job and when I got my first modelling job, the pay check made me take sick leave.
Any major challenge you had to overcome?
My major challenge was the hopes and expectations that the modelling industry gives. You can get replaced easily at the slightest problem.
Do you see any change in pageantry over the years?
Pageantry culture definitely is declining. There isn’t as much hype as it used to be. I don’t see it going a long way in the future.
What are you aspiring to in this industry?
I am looking forward to a career in the entertainment industry. I have been getting content creation work a lot lately and I didn’t expect that I would be making content someday. I am glad it’s going well.
Given a choice, which actor do you want to debut with in a film?
I would like to debut with Miruna Magar or Swastima Khadka. I like the aura they both portray.
What inspires you the most?
Myself and my family as everything that I am doing is for them.
What’s next?
I will continue my higher education. I would like to learn and work towards something more stable.
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