Ayu Gani Express Struggle To Be A Model In The Where Next Club Series

Ayu Gani (IST)

JAKARTA - The Where Next Club series presented by Glenfiddich reveals the journey of Indonesian model Ayu Gani in the modeling industry. Gani is the winner of the 2015 Asian's Next Top Model (ASNTM) competition.

Gani has built a reputation for herself and expanded her career outside of models such as creating content, being a speaker at motivational events, and guiding models that aspire to be high.

"I always ask myself -- 'where next?' I mean, I won the 2015 ASNTM. That may be the pinnacle of my career at that time, and since then, I can work as a model abroad like in London, around Europe, and the United States," Gani said as quoted by ANTARA, Friday, January 6.

"I always ask myself, 'What else do I want to do?' After that, where is it next? We can get a lot of information there, so I believe that's where it all started," he added.

The beginning of Gani's modeling career, he said, "it happened accidentally." His mother persuaded him to register a model contest sponsored by leading magazines in 2011.

He admits that he is very tomboyed, has never used cosmetics, does not know how to dress well, and has never even worn high heels.

After becoming one of the winners in the cover girl competition, Gani's career skyrocketed. He began to receive many invitations to participate in photo shoots and fashion events, including at Jakarta Fashion Week.

He then got an email casting from ASNTM in 2012, and joined the event in 2015. After becoming the first Indonesian to win the event, Gani admitted he did not know that his spontaneous decision to participate in the competition would have such a significant impact on his life.

Although it sounds very smooth, Gani's journey as a model is also full of challenges. The feeling of insecurity and the perception that she doesn't fit her profession are obstacles she has experienced. In fact, she has also been rejected by model agencies and fashion shows.

However, Gani overcomes these difficulties by never giving up. He said he was always consistent in paying attention to the people who supported him and trying new things.

"Don't be easily satisfied, I believe it is the most crucial thing. I've never been quick to feel satisfied with anything," said Gani.

"In my opinion, the mindset and mind to never stop are very important," he added.

Currently, Gani is forming his model agency while working as a modeling consultant for models in Indonesia. In addition, he also created a model school because he wanted to give aspirations about what it would be like to be a model for those who have high aspirations and want to work in this industry.

Gani also wants to build a modeling business in New York that functions as a liaison between Indonesian and American modeling companies.

"We hope that the continuation of The Where Next Club in Indonesia continues to inspire with these extraordinary stories," said Regional Brand Ambassador for Glenfiddich Southeast Asia Brett Bayly.