Late Fall 2006

If there is one word that can describe 22 year old supermodel Shauna Faith, it’s plain and simple: brand. Despite officially entering the modeling business in 2004 within the already-crowded New York City scene, the aspiring entrepreneur has gone from rookie to leader of the pack, becoming arguably the top minority fashion/commercial model in the greatest city in the world, in addition to one of the biggest names in the country. And to make matters even better, “Faith” (as she’s referred to by peers) took the old-fashioned method to success: good work ethic and a “take no prisoners” approach. Understanding that the urban modeling world produces more popularity instead of paper, this Jamaican Bombshell invaded the commercial modeling scene with only one purpose: the number one spot.
With curves for miles, a businesswoman’s demeanor, and one of the best smiles in the business, it’s no wonder that Shauna Faith has single-handedly revived the recently struggling modeling scene in the New York City metro area among minorities. Avenue 1 caught up with the self-proclaimed “Golden Child” to talk film, having a “bad girl” persona, the myspace madness, and music instruments.

Now when it comes to the modeling industry, most people think its one big social outing and picture taking party. What’s the biggest thing most people misinterpet about the modeling industry?
Some people think that modeling is taking photos and looking pretty. But, little do they know it is hard work and mentally challenging akin to other demanding careers. Depending on a project, modeling for a certain type of photos is hard. Looking good all the time for castings and photo shoots, you have to be on top of your game, which can be arduous for me at times. Working out all the time, getting your hair and nails done, making sure your skin is clear, is strenuous. On top of that I am very lazy. But, it is work, so I have to maintain, and it takes time consuming.

Wow. So you’ve done film, videos, acting, and TV. What’s more different about doing media as opposed to the modeling?
The difference in film, videos, and television oppose to modeling is that I am more than a face; I am speaking, I am moving, I am a character. And its challenging at first, because you have to make that right move and say lines perfectly. Modeling you take a bunch of photos, choose the best one, do some editing, and you are done.

How many times are you told daily you resemble a certain Destiny’s Child band member? I’m sure you hear it every day!
Are you talking about Beyonce? I hear that about 2 or 3 times day when my hair is similar to hers. I do not think we favor that much. Nevertheless, when some people see a light skin girl with blonde hair, they think Beyonce. I bet if I dye my hair black and cornrows, people will think I look like Alicia Keys.

With the myspace craze, obviously men are finding new ways to make themselves look more and more desperate with their notes and comments. I know you have had a comment or marriage proposal or 2 come your way.
I guess you can say that.

Don’t be afraid to speak on it. It’s the men who are crazy enough to propose on a community website, not you. If they are embarrassed or offended, they can simply stop doing it.
With this new myspace thing, some men try to be someone they are not on the internet because they know they can’t be that person in reality. Especially, younger black men. I got about 4 notes saying things like, ‘Wassup Hoe’ or ‘You wanna be pimped?’. I didn’t take any of the messages seriously, because these messages were from young men between the ages of 14 and 17. However, I was completely flabbergasted on how these young black men are talking to women. I know its not their fault entirely, and it’s more of the media and/or the way they grew up. Something needs to change.

I say blame it on Bobby Brown, since everybody else does. So moving back to behind the scenes: Do people think you’re a “bad girl” because you own your own business and treat your modeling much like it as well? You know how most minorities view focused-minded women as the B-word because they are strong and in total control of their careers.
A lot of people do not know I own a business. I incorporated last year, so it is fairly new, I don’t go around telling everyone that or heavily advertise it. People will realize and take notice sooner or later when it hopefully grows and develops more. I will let you know when the website and details are up.

Now I’m sure men are throwing everything they own your way, while their women are pulling for them to stay away from you. But have you ever had a time where somebody stoled your man? Any catfights?
One time when I was 12 years old, but I didn’t care. Three times while I was in high school, but again, I didn’t care. I wasn’t much of a relationship person in high school. Recently, not really. However, there was a time when I stole some ones man. They were in a relationship for about 4 years. I helped him leave her. It was meant for me and him to be together, not them.

Breaking up the happy homes, huh! I’m for certain he made the best choice. So we hear you do your thing with the music instrumentation too. How long have you been playing instruments? And are we ever going to see you venture into music?
I have been playing instruments since I was 7 starting out with the flute. I eventually moved on to the French Horn. I also practiced the guitar and piano in the past years. I am working on building my own studio. It cost a lot. But, that’s my ultimate goal. I produce, compose, write, and arrange now with what I got. Eventually, when my studio is completely built, I want to do it right with the right equipment. I will get there, and sooner or later I will be making hits.

Damn is there anything you can’t do? That’s great though, we need more like you in the world. So admit it, you can tell all about how Chuck and the gang conned you into doing this interview, including a 3-step payment.
Of course he conned me. I am playing. It’s cool though Chuck is a really a good person with a bright future. I am honored to work with him. Thanks Chuck.

Tell the truth – are you doing the chicken noodle soup with a soda on the side in clubs?
Haha, no. Who does that anyway.