2011 and we would expect the world to be more advanced, more diverse and more equal. So then why is it, in regards to the modelling and fashion industry that we still find a huge gap? A huge gap of where models and even so women of colour, are kept on the sidelines. This industry needs more colour, more diversity. Asian and ethnic models are just as good, if not better than the 'typical' average type of models used on covers of magazines and fore-fronting all the big labels. So why is it that we cannot see them commercially?

Yes, there is a clear definition of beauty within the industry, but it opposes that of the public, so then why do coloured models not get the same chances? We are at a point where even Asian magazines are starting to hire up non-ethnic, non-asian models. What chance do we have? A HELL OF A LOT, if we remain focused and believe in ourselves. The more we ethnic models push and dedicate ourselves, the more we shall find ourselves deeper within the industry. We can make magazine covers look sexy and fashionable, we can walk elegantly with huge heels on the runway and yes we can most definitely, model confidently and with pride.

We have the likes of Lara Dutta (Miss India), who won Miss Universe in 2000 and Aishwarya Rai, who won Miss World in 1994, both have gone on to major works in television and modelling, just that there is no way near, enough of models like these nor half of which are given the chance. When I started modelling 9 years ago, Indian females modelling to even lingerie was somewhat of a big deal, and even nowadays in 2011 it still is. We can change this view. This view of it being sinful and cheap. The more chances we take at going mainstream and the more we succeed, the more we will be showing hope for the newer models, but even more so, to such people with really narrow-minds, that do not see enough of this, for them to think it is something only lower-class people do.

Remember, you are not 'different' for being coloured within the fashion and modelling industry, you are just 'not the same'. Standing out is the key, we don't want to blend in. Keep positive, you will get there.

Love your colour, love your skin, most of all love yourself!

Miss Ramilla Sisodia xoxo