There are all sorts of stories about how some models get their start. Some are scouted while casually walking in a mall. Others launched their careers by visiting a local modeling agency. Nana Delatour has an interesting story to tell about how she broke into the modeling industry. She had just made one of the most reluctant decisions of her life—chopping her hair down—and was having second thoughts. But as she walked down the streets, and received compliment showers from random strangers, she realized that changing her look may not have been such a crazy idea—after all.
Nana was living in New York at the time and decided to return to her hometown in Haiti. While in Haiti, she was contacted by a well-known photographer. Would she like to set up a photo shoot? Of course, the answer was an enthusiastic “Yes!” From there, she built a portfolio and started posting her looks on social media sites. Her unique look got the attention of other models—not to mention stylists and photographers—and Nana Delatour—the model—came into being.
Kreyolicious: Models are constantly on display. Do you think that has affected your mentality?
Not at all. Modeling is very similar to acting. You’re basically pretending to be someone else in front of the camera. But when the job is done, you break out of that role and get back to regular life. It’s actually kind of refreshing because it’s a break from the real world. I learned to be more patient and tolerant as well as not judge people so easily. You don’t know what struggles a person is going through. We have no idea what demons they are fighting inside. So, what right to we have to judge their looks or behavior?
Photo Credit: PhotoTale Studio
Kreyolicious: What does being beautiful mean to you?
Being beautiful is someone who is confident, not about their looks but about their character. Flawless skin, shiny hair, and a great body doesn’t qualify you as beautiful if you are vain, selfish, rude—or have any other bad qualities you can think of. A beautiful person is willing to help others because it’s in their nature to do so—not because they will want something in return for it.
Kreyolicious: You get an assignment. Then what?
You head to the shoot well-rested—because it will most likely last all day. There’s a team there ready to glam you up and make you look fabulous. Make-up artist, hair stylist—I usually never need one…[Laughter] Clothing stylist, photographer, and the photographer’s assistant. You will pose in front of the camera for hours and after taking a thousand shots, you hope the photographer will find a handful that he likes and can work with.
Kreyolicious: What’s the most memorable assignment you’ve had thus far?
I would definitely say working with Sarodj Bertin for the 2015 I love Haiti calendar. I worked with another model, Hencha who I’ve been friends with for majority of my life. This was also one of the hardest assignments I’ve had because it lasted 12 hours. We were on the road traveling to some of Haiti’s most treasured locations, but it was worth it. The pictures came out beautifully and the experience was amazing. I am still grateful for this opportunity.
Kreyolicious: Are your parents big supporters of your modeling career?
Yes, they are. My parents support me no matter how far-fetched my goals are. They are truly the most loving and encouraging parents out there. My mom is my rock. I talk to her constantly and she always knows just what to say to lift my spirits up. She is a living angel and the biggest blessing God gave me.
Kreyolicious: How do you stay connected with Haitian culture?
I was an editor for two years for Magic Haiti magazine. I learned so much about how wonderful our culture is. The articles I edited included hole in the wall restaurants, up-and-coming artists, secret getaway locations, interviews with entrepreneurs and the list goes on. We have a very dynamic and colorful culture. Haitians are some of the strongest people I’ve ever met. We’ve been through it all, but no matter how many times we fall we stand up more vigorously each time. There is so much to be proud of. Our people are sympathetic, very talented—but most importantly—indestructible.
Photo Credit: PhotoTale Studio
Kreyolicious: Throw some pearls of wisdom to all the aspiring models out there.
Never give up. Continue being determined and don’t let others discourage you. Life is too short to not go after what you want. And if you’re not successful, so what? At least, you know you tried your hardest and gave it your best. That’s all that really matters.
Kreyolicious: Lots of women start out as models, and then move on to something else. What are your goals?
Music! I’ve been writing songs, short stories, and poetry for as long as I can remember. Whenever I’m writing, I feel as though I’m in a different realm from everyone else. I’m really good with words and using them to to expose a wide variety of topics from controversial issues to more personal ones such as an emotional and enlightening experience. In the past year, I’ve written over 25 songs and I will be recording some for the first time [this year].
[Photos Credit: Second and last photo PhotoTale Studio; All others furnished by subject.]
