New Faces Development

Zhanna Ved
From Runway Project to Project Runway

Zhanna Ved won Model of the Year in 2003 at an international modeling event, went on to sign with two of the largest agencies in the world and she can be seen on this season of "Project Runway." One would never suspect that she spent over a year developing into the beautiful and comfortable model she is today, but it is. She spent that time with Nijah/New Faces Development, who were dedicated to helping her achieve her current stardom. "The development process made for some long days. They perfected my image and helped me build a strong portfolio. A year is a long time, and it was a crazy and high stress time, but Nijah/New Faces Development committed to me. So I focused on my goals, and it made it all worth while."

"The development is very important, especially in how you interact with agents and creative directors," she said, recalling the knowledge she gained with Nijah/New Faces Development. "They showed me everything I needed to know to succeed in the industry, even information about what goes on behind-the-scenes." When discussing her own experiences utilizing development, she notes the ill effect of being unprepared. "This is a really small community and one mistake can change the perception of you as a model."

When preparing for meetings with agents, she never allowed herself to be negative. "Most often, people think if you don't get a callback or noticed at that moment, you won't work. That's not true. You have to keep developing. I tried to make it on my own, too, and I was one of the 'pretty' girls who was rejected initially. You just never know," Zhanna said. And her own inspiration? "It's Tyra Banks. I remember Tyra sending flip-flops to everyone at the agency, from entry-level to the supermodels. She never thought she was better than anyone, and that's not only the level I want to reach, but the kind of attitude I always want to have."

Zhanna is now seen on television each week. Does it ever become frustrating to hear the misconceptions about the industry? "They're so wrong. It doesn't happen overnight, it is a lot of work and development is a part of the work you have to do. While I do take care of myself, I'm not a robot without a personality. You have to make a real commitment to this, because there will always be competition. But there is more to it than just looks. From the styling to the portfolio, you have to be exposed to the right opportunities by the right people. It didn't really happen until I got involved with Nijah/New Faces Development."