Eastern Mirror’s Style Spot gives you an insider look into the local style scene, bringing you the latest news and trends in the fashion industry. Every Wednesday we offer a fun and exciting line up of artists that you won’t want to miss out on!!
We showcase Designers, Stylists, Models, Bloggers, Make-up Artists and Fashion Entrepreneurs each with their unique perspective on fashion. Whether you love beautifully layered laidback summery vibes in pastel or a bit of Edge in leather appliquéd on cropped jackets and tunics you can find Your Style Inspiration Here!
EASTERN MIRROR: How cool was it to be a top participant on INTM? What have you been doing since we saw you on India’s Next Top Model?
GLORIA TEP: It has been one of the greatest blessings and honor of my life, to be one of the top 13 contestants and not only represent Nagaland but the whole of Northeast, though I must admit that the pressure was on throughout the competition due to this very fact.
At the moment I am spending quality time with my family to just let everything sink in well; I will resume work once I am sorted.
EASTERN MIRROR: Had you done any modeling before this? How supportive were your parents with your decision?
GLORIA TEP: I was quite engaged with my studies throughout so I could not take up any modeling assignments professionally but I often did experimental shoots in my free time for my budding designer and photographer friends as a hobby.
My parents have been the most supportive right from the start I owe everything to them. They always made it very clear that I cannot compromise on my studies but having said that, they never discouraged me and was always very supportive of my hobby. My brother on the other hand has been my greatest critique; he always made sure I am grounded.
EASTERN MIRROR: With what expectations and preconception did you enter the INTM house? What misconceptions have you cleared by participating?
GLORIA TEP: Honestly I expected a lot of catfights and unnecessary back biting when I entered the INTM house since it is a competition and you cannot avoid the drama.
I previously thought modeling is easy but that was the greatest misconception that got cleared through the show. It is a very demanding profession and to be a successful model one has to strive hard.
EASTERN MIRROR: You talked about identity crisis in the first airing of INTM. Did you face that when you were in the house of INTM and who did you bond with the most?
GLORIA TEP: I did not face any identity crisis as such in INTM, we were really busy shooting. I bonded well with Danielle the most as she and I both share the same inexperienced background.
EASTERN MIRROR: Were you surprised when you made it to final 3? What have the last couple of days been like for you?
GLORIA TEP: When I first got into the competition I never thought I would go that far as the other girls seemed pretty experienced and talented. I feel really blessed and I thank God for His grace for I strongly believe that besides my hard work it was purely His Grace that got me this far.
The love and support I got from everyone back home in Northeast has been overwhelming, I sometimes still feel like I got into something not knowing how big it was going to be. I cannot thank God enough for the opportunity; INTM has been a beautiful journey.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you think your persona was shown off well on the show?
GLORIA TEP: The camera is a very sensitive thing, it instantly picks up your personality and the audience sees it accordingly, though a lot also depends on how they edit and show each personality. I think they have done a good job.
EASTERN MIRROR: Northeasterners have distinct features compared with the mainland Indians. Do you think this act as a snag for Northeast people to fit in the showbiz world?
GLORIA TEP: I think a lot depends on how one perceives it to be, we often land up thinking we are different from the mainland Indians (which I don’t deny we are different culturally) and so we don’t try to make our mark but our unique distinct features as a matter of fact can work as our greatest asset if we learn to accept it and be confident of our distinctness. Times have changed, the Indian audiences are open to see culturally different talents in the industry but for that we also have to make an effort to reach out and try our luck.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you feel like your features helped you to be part of INTM at all?
GLORIA TEP: Well I cannot deny that my features have got me casted for INTM, as to be a model one has to fit into the basic criteria required but I do believe that it was not only my features but my overall personality which summed up my place in the show. Only looks won’t take one far in this industry.
EASTERN MIRROR: What has been the best part of being on India’s Next Top Model? Where do we see you next?
GLORIA TEP: The complete journey right from day one till the end has been a blessing as I got to observe and learn a lot in a very short span of time, being able to meet and work with talented people from the industry has been the best part of INTM.
I cannot say right now where you guys will be seeing me next but all I can say is stay tuned. (Laughs)
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you have any advice for girls who watched you on INTM and want to try their destiny, but maybe don’t know where to begin?
GLORIA TEP: It is really important to link yourself with the right kind of people, don’t just jump into anything in the name of modeling, be wise, always try to have something else as a backup plan. I encourage every youngster who aspires to be a model to take up their education also seriously and never compromise on it. Above all surrender everything to God and seek His help, for if it is for you it will surely happen or else something better that is meant for you will come your way. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
