The three faces of Classic Diamond 2025 are easily the most versatile young models in the country. In a heart-to-heart conversation with WOW’s Ankita Jain, Purnika, Smriti and Urusha talk about their modelling journey, failures, life experiences and the opportunities ahead.
Purnika Sijapati
Purnika Sijapati is a model and content creator from Kathmandu. Purnika started modelling at the age of 16, and her journey has been filled with learning, growth, and achievements. She won Face of Teen 2021 and Face of Classic Diamond 2024. She believes modelling isn’t just about wearing outfits—it’s about confidence, storytelling, and leaving an impact.
What was the main factor for you to pick modelling? Describe your first moment of walking the ramp.
Modeling was a natural choice for me because I’ve always been drawn to confidence, presence, and self-expression. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about owning your space. My first ramp walk was unforgettable—I was nervous, but the moment I stepped onto the stage, everything else faded. The lights, the energy, the music—it all felt right. That was the moment I knew this was my path.
What is your current state of mind?
I’m focused and excited. After winning Face of Classic Diamond 2024 and Face of Teen 2021, I feel more driven than ever to push my boundaries. I have new opportunities ahead, and I’m ready to take them on with confidence.
Can you take me back to what your dreams were during childhood? And what does belongingness mean to you?
As a child, my dreams were constantly evolving. One day I wanted to be an artist, another day a performer. But at the core, I always wanted to be in a space where I could express myself. Belongingness, to me, isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about finding a space where you are valued and celebrated for who you truly are.
In an industry where models are often treated as hangers, how do you ensure you stay true to your own identity and own your power?
By remembering that modelling is more than just wearing clothes—it’s about bringing life to them. I ensure I stay true to myself by choosing work that aligns with my values, adding personality to my presence, and never letting the industry define me. My individuality is my power.
How did you keep yourself grounded and focused on the job at hand when you started out?
I always remind myself why I started. Having a strong support system—my family, close friends, and being disciplined in life—keeps me grounded. I focus on the work rather than the noise around it, and that has helped me stay true to my journey.
I find it interesting that even though you had already tasted success in modelling, you ended up participating in ‘The Face of Classic Diamond’ that offset many wins later on. Why?
Winning Face of Teen 2021 was a big moment, but I don’t believe in stopping at one achievement. Face of Classic Diamond 2024 was another opportunity to challenge myself, learn more, and grow in ways I hadn’t before. I believe in continuously evolving, and this competition was the perfect way to do that.
As far as modelling goes, who were you really inspired by while growing up? And when you see something exciting, do you tell yourself, “Hey, I would’ve killed this” or “I would’ve really loved to do this”?
I’ve always been inspired by models who bring confidence and presence beyond just their looks—those who redefine the industry and create their own path. And yes, when I see an exciting project, I do have those moments where I think, ‘I would’ve loved to do this!’ But I also trust that the right opportunities will come at the right time.
If you could have a superpower or a bunch of superpowers, what would they be?
Time manipulation! There’s so much I want to do, and 24 hours in a day never seem enough. Also, teleportation—imagine travelling anywhere instantly.
How do you deal with your failures?
I see failures as redirections, not roadblocks. Every setback has taught me something valuable. Instead of letting failure define me, I use it to grow, improve, and come back stronger.
How important is equilibrium and being with the right partner for a woman to have it all?
Balance is everything, whether it’s in career, personal life, or relationships. The right partner should add to your growth, not limit it. It’s about mutual support, respect, and pushing each other to be the best versions of ourselves.
What are you most excited about in 2025?
I’m excited for all the opportunities ahead—new projects, new experiences, and pushing my limits even further. Joining TPJFS Season 5 is definitely one of the highlights, and I can’t wait to see what this journey brings.
Tell us about the upcoming TPJFS Season 5.
I’m thrilled to be a part of TPJFS Season 5. It’s going to be an incredible experience where I get to showcase my skills, meet amazing talents, and learn even more about the industry. It’s an exciting challenge, and I’m ready to give it my all.
Smriti Shrestha
Smriti Shrestha is a professional model based in Kathmandu. With a strong drive for fashion, Smriti has built a solid foundation in various modelling disciplines. She possesses a versatile look that allows her to adapt to a wide range of styles and concepts. She is the first runner up of Face of Classic Diamond 2025 and her experience includes working with renowned clothing brands, participating in fashion runways, and collaborating with esteemed lifestyle brands.
What was the main factor for you to pick modelling? Describe your first moment of walking the ramp.
I was always attracted towards modelling. And after I completed my school, I was driven by my passion. There’s a saying that when you really want something you eventually get into it. Talking about my first experience in runway it was pretty amazing, exciting and little scary too.
What is your current state of mind?
My current state of mind is to stay focused on my career and stay happy.
Can you take me back to what your dreams were during childhood? And what does belongingness mean to you?
I didn’t have any childhood dreams as such but as far as I remember I was always attracted to modelling and I got in it. It has been a rollercoaster ride consisting of some ups and downs but at the end it’s going well.
In an industry where models are often treated as hangers, how do you ensure you stay true to your own identity and own your power?
Throughout my journey, I have always believed in my potential and my hard work. I give my 100 percent in every work I do and that has always helped me become an individual of my dreams.
How did you keep yourself grounded and focused on the job at hand when you started out?
Maybe it’s just my dedication and my desire for it that it always kept me grounded and helped me to outgrow myself and step into many fields in this industry.
I find it interesting that even though you had already tasted success in modelling, you ended up participating in ‘The Face of Classic Diamond’ that offset many wins later on. Why?
Yes, I have been in this modelling industry for a few years now and today I don’t want to be just a model, I look forward to become a super model and bring a new impact in Nepali modelling industry. We all have known about TPJF and the opportunities we can get from it. I feel there is always an opportunity waiting for us we just need to grab it.
As far as modelling goes, who were you really inspired by while growing up? And when you see something exciting, do you tell yourself, “Hey, I would’ve killed this” or “I would’ve really loved to do this”?
I always dreamed of being able to express myself and modelling just happened to be the one where I could truly be myself. The power and the aura it has is amazing to feel it in self. And whenever I see something new or exciting I challenge myself to bring out my own version of it.
If you could have a superpower or a bunch of superpowers, what would they be?
If I could really have some super power, I would love to have the power of controlling human brain like scarlet witch in avengers.
How do you deal with your failures?
At first, I found it very difficult and hard to accept it but as time passes, we learn more day by day and I have learned that it’s just a part of our life. I accept things and move on to a better version of myself. However, I believe having faith is the most important part to achieve what we aspire to.
How important is equilibrium and being with the right partner for a woman to have it all?
I believe it is very beautiful to have someone by your side and support you but even if we don’t have someone, we ourselves are powerful and strong enough to do everything on our own.
What are you most excited about in 2025?
I am looking forward to build my career in international platforms and I also want to travel as many countries I can.
Tell us about the upcoming TPJFS Season 5.
TPJFS season 5 has started with a very strong competition this year and I believe that we will definitely set a new record.
Urusha Bhandari
Navigating modelling career and medical studies, Urusha Bhandari is in a phase of exciting growth and balance. Urusha is the second runner up of the Face of Classic Diamond 2025. She cherishes the blend of creative expression and intellectual challenge, and she is inspired by the opportunities each day brings.
What was the main factor for you to pick modelling? Describe your first moment of walking the ramp?
I never initially planned on becoming a model, but that doesn’t mean my options were ever limited. Watching Project Runway, Next in Fashion, and global runway shows, I admired how models carried themselves with such confidence and own their presence so effortlessly made me admire the profession. Modelling felt like a versatile profession—one that allows you to evolve and experience different facets of life. That realisation led me to Model Factory Nepal, where I was groomed by some of the best in the industry.
Walking the runway for the first time felt like deja – vu —I had envisioned it so many times that it felt familiar. The lights, the music, the energy—it was surreal. The moment I took my first step, everything else faded, and I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.
What is your current state of mind?
I’m in a phase of exciting growth and balance—navigating both my modelling career and my medical studies. I cherish the blend of creative expression and intellectual challenge, and I’m continually inspired by the opportunities each day brings.
Can you take me back to what your dreams were during childhood?
I always dreamed of becoming a doctor, but over time, my interests expanded—I was drawn to music at one point and philosophy at another. Eventually, I embraced a path that truly fulfills me: a dual journey in dentistry and modelling a perfect blend of creativity and passion.
In an industry where models are often treated as hangers, how do you ensure you stay true to your own identity and own your power?
In an industry where models are often seen as canvases, I believe authenticity is my greatest strength. Modelling, to me, is not just about wearing fashion, it’s about storytelling, expression, and impact. By continuously evolving, learning, and staying grounded in my values, I ensure that I am not just a face in the crowd but a voice that resonates beyond the runway.
I find it interesting that even though you had already tasted success in modelling, you ended up participating in ‘the face of classic diamond’ that offset many wins later on. Why?
Success to me, is about continuous growth, not just milestones. Participating in Face of Classic Diamond was an opportunity to further refine my skills and expand my perspectives and pushing my boundaries further.
As far as modelling go, who were you really inspired by while growing up?
Growing up, I was inspired by icons like Gisele Bundchen and Naomi Campbell who refined the industry with their confidence, versatility and presence have set benchmarks that continue to influence me. Also, those who don’t just wear fashion but bring it to life.
If you could have a superpower or a bunch of superpowers, what would they be?
If I could choose superpowers, I would opt for the ability to manipulate time – pausing rather than to rewinding and fast-forwarding moments. Another would be limitless knowledge and have the power of influence – not just in fashion but in shaping perspectives and inspiring change on a global scale.
How to do deal with your failures?
I believe failure is not something to be feared or avoided, it is simply life’s way of teaching us. I take failures as challenge and remind myself that it’s all part of the journey where resilience is key to moving forward. Every setback carries within it the seed of wisdom, if we are open to learning.
How important is equilibrium and being with the right partner for a woman to have it all?
I believe it’s not always about finding someone to complete you, but having a partnership that nurtures mutual respect, growth and understanding. When both parties uplift each other, equilibrium is naturally achieved, allowing for a more content and harmonious life.
Tell us about the upcoming TPJFS season 5?
At the heart of this event is Amir Maharjan, the visionary behind TPJFS Season 5 is more than just a fashion event, it’s a celebration of artistry, evolution, and the power of self – expression. Taking place on 24 February, this season brings together some of the most influential figures in the fashion world, including the legendary Lara Dutta, a woman whose journey from Miss Universe to global inspiration continues to empower so many. Alongside her, esteemed supermodels like Deepti Gujral, Sabita Karki, Asmi Shrestha will grace the stage, creating a fusion of cultures, creativity and excellence.
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