Nur Qamarina Syafira Syaiful Azrie, the grand winner of the 2024 I Am Model Search International, discusses how modelling contests have helped her become more disciplined, resilient, and capable of managing her time.
A teen model’s journey to triumph
“This girl is pretty zealous, I must say! What experiences has she gone through to reach the level she is at today?”
When I met 15-year-old Nur Qamarina Syafira Syaiful Azrie in person for a photo shoot with our photographer, Ramidi Subari, I formed that impression of her.
I believed some individuals might have had doubts about this teen. Despite her young age, Syafira dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her modelling role.
Just so you know, in January of this year in Kuala Lumpur, this student from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kota Samarahan was crowned the grand winner of the 2024 I Am Model Search International, after triumphing over contestants of all ages from 22 countries.
With this wonderful accomplishment, Syafira has become the first (teen) participant from Sarawak and Malaysia to hold such a title in the I Am Model Search International competition.
Imagine achieving this great feat at the age of only 15. How does she manage to do it all?
“The key is my parents’ unwavering physical and emotional support and prayers, combined with my own perseverance,” she said.
Despite her success, this young lady with mixed Malay and Sikh roots did not downplay the fact that she had to give up her weekends to attend classes in posing and catwalking to hone her modelling skills.
“While buddies of similar ages might go to movies, hang out outside, and do other things together, I’m the complete opposite.
“Modelling classes and extra tuition sessions always take up my weekends and school holidays.
“I believe that in order to be successful, no matter the field, education should never be neglected.
“Education is crucial because it shapes people’s attitudes and ways of thinking.
“I acknowledge that my academic performance throughout the 2024 I Am Model Search International competition was a little lacking.
“My parents searched for the best tutors to teach the subjects I had missed, as they were aware of this.
“Hence, I made a self-promise to always give my all in both my modelling and academic endeavours because I am so appreciative of their sacrifice.
“InsyaAllah, if there is rezeki (sustenance), I will continue my career in modelling after completing my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia,” said the eldest of two siblings.
Journey to the throne
Syafira said she did not anticipate her significant victory because all of her rivals were excellent.
According to her, throughout the five days of the event, she made sure to constantly demonstrate unyielding perseverance and persistently push forward in the face of challenges or setbacks, knowing that her opponents had their own specialties.
She added that she always strived to be punctual for all events, carried out her responsibilities with a strong sense of duty, and exuded passion and energy.
Additionally, since the competition puts a strain on competitors’ physical, mental, and emotional strength, she noted that she was prepared to meet obstacles head-on with a positive outlook and a problem-solving mentality.
Syafira also believed that her success was primarily due to her strong focus and determination, fuelled by her deep-seated passion for modelling, as well as the solid support and prayers of her parents.
Priceless experience
This former kid model for Sereni & Shentel noted that the 2024 I Am Model Search International contest really aided in the development of her confidence as a teenager by teaching her how to carry herself professionally and garnering encouraging comments from professionals in the industry.
“I learned so many useful skills that I can use in a variety of professional settings outside of modelling, like posing, walking the runway, and taking direction.
“Moreover, the competition introduced me to a network of professionals in the field, such as agents, designers, and photographers, which may lead to future employment prospects.
“As an adventurer, the best part for me was that I could travel to different locations for shoots and shows, providing me with exposure to new cultures and experiences, and, not forgetting, the most valuable for me, my new friends of various nationalities,” she said.
Syafira added that participating in the modelling competition helped her develop time management, discipline, and resilience, all of which have become a part of her.
Another priceless experience she gained from this global event was building a professional portfolio that highlights her adaptability and experience, which may come in handy if she decides to pursue opportunities in the fashion industry and other sectors as well.
Unearthing the talent
Syafira’s mother, Yusmafarina Busrah, said that since her oldest child was hesitant to engage with people and a little shy, she opted to send her to modelling contests as early as seven years old to boost her self-esteem.
“As a parent, I have seen that Syafira has improved greatly as a result of these competitions, transitioning from modest school-level dress modelling to the prestigious I Am Model Search International.
“She used to prefer being alone, but these days she feels more comfortable interacting with others and has realised how important it is to be on time.
“Syafira has been exposed to new experiences through frequent travels to different locations for shoots. She also gained valuable knowledge from her participation in international-level competitions earlier this year.
“Everything she went through, I believe, will help her a lot if she wants to pursue her interest and career in the fashion and modelling industry,” she said.
In the meantime, Syafira’s father, Syaiful Azrie Muhammad Farid, counselled other parents to provide their young children with full support and encouragement if they have a propensity for modelling, pageants, or any other activities.
But the most crucial thing, he continued, is to keep in mind that education is the key to everything.
Professionals in the fashion and modelling industries who are still seeking fresh, young talent can get in touch with Yusmafarina (013-8006238) or Syaiful (019-8567220) for any inquiries regarding modelling for their daughter.
