As the western world’s preeminent metropolis officially enters its first post-COVID hot person summer, we wanted to check in on the who’s who of it all — who’s hot? Who’s cool? Who’s hot and cool? So we asked New York-based Kiwi photographer Emma Anderson for the hook-up and, of course, she absolutely understood the assignment.
Scroll Emma’s visuals and meet the personalities behind those faces — that’s Rose, Alex, Dillon, Antonio, and Izzy — as they take part in the famous CPC Q&A. You’ll learn about the coolest things they’ve learned so far in 2021, the most rewarding parts of modelling, and what they’re reading/watching of late.
Name: Alexis Carranza
Nickname:
Alex
Age:
24
Star sign: Gemini/Taurus Cusp
How would you describe 2021 in a sentence?
I would describe 2021 as a recovery period.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
Feeling lonely isn't forever.
What are you most proud of this year?
My ability to be patient with both my life and myself.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modelling?
Being able to meet creatives and network.
And the toughest?
The pressure to be perfect.
Best book/documentary/film you’ve devoured recently?
Best book: All About Love by bell hooks
Documentary: Underground LSD Palace
Film: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
Spliff4lyfe
Name: Antonio Stephon
Nickname: Tony
Age: 22
Star sign: Gemini
How would you describe 2021 in a sentence?
So far 2021 is like seeing the world with fresh eyes, a new reality meets a newly developed sense of identity — a perfect match.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
The coolest thing I’ve learned this year is how to set boundaries, which is harder than some might think, but a very important skill to have.
What are you most proud of this year?
Overall I am most proud of how far everyone has come this year. I’ve never seen a greater display of global community tackling very challenging issues together as I have over this past year.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modeling?
I get a chance to represent my family, my community, and my ancestors each time I do a photoshoot, which is pretty awesome!
Also, I get a free cup of coffee at the newsstand every time I'm featured in a magazine LOL.
And the toughest?
The toughest part of modeling is staying disciplined and focused, especially in times of not getting that booking. Reminding the self that something bigger and better is always coming.
Best book/documentary/film you’ve devoured recently?
Currently, I’m reading this book called Mindset by Carol Dweck. Life changing — everyone should read it.
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
I unwind at the end of the day by talking to my roommates and/or having a cute skin care moment, that always does the trick.
Name: Roseline Lawrence
Nickname: Rose/Rosie
Age: 27
Star sign: Libra sun baby!
How would you describe 2021 in a sentence?
Everyday has been a surprise tbh.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
I low-key relearned how to crochet and that’s been kinda fun
What are you most proud of this year?
I’m honestly the most proud of every part of my growth this year, and especially the fact that it's getting better and better daily. I'm very lucky and I know my privilege.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modelling?
Being able to work with amazing teams and meeting new people that are so damn talented, and passionate
And the toughest?
Feeling unseen, or not good enough when you get rejected for a job. Having tough skin definitely helps with that [laughs].
Best book/documentary/film you’ve devoured recently?
I’ve just been rewatching some Bollywood classics; Devdas is iconic. Would recommend.
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
Cook a meal — it's very therapeutic for me.
Name: Dillon Abeysinghe
Nickname:
D(ee)/Deedee
Age: 23
Star sign: Gemini
How would you describe 2021 in a sentence?
Hot boy summer ;)
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
My girlfriend and I recently adopted a cat, so I’ve learned a little about cat behavior and it’s been very cool and rewarding to be able to develop a bond and trust with her.
What are you most proud of this year?
The hard work I’ve been putting in for myself and those around me. I’ve been consistent in working to achieve many of the things I set my sights on at the beginning of 2021.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modelling?
Being given the opportunity to connect with like-minded and very talented individuals to create images that hold significance and tell a story.
And the toughest?
Recognising my flaws and stepping out of my comfort zone. Also learning how to socialise again post-COVID :’)
Best book/documentary/film you’ve devoured recently?
I’m currently reading The Divided Island and it’s giving me a deeper look into the history of my country’s civil war.
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
Either drawing by myself or watching TV or a movie with my girlfriend and our cat.
Name: Izzy
Nickname: Izzy
Age: 27
Star sign: Pisces
How would you describe 2021 in a sentence?
2021 has been a year full of resilience.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this year?
The coolest thing I’ve learned this year is probably to rely on myself for my own happiness. Happiness comes from health and pure love.
What are you most proud of this year?
This year I’m proud of the woman that I have become. I’m excited for the future.
What’s the most rewarding thing about modeling?
The most rewarding thing about modeling for me is seeing what the final outcome looks like. It’s fun shapeshifting and becoming different characters and feelings. I love the artistry behind fashion photography. There are so many creative people that you get to meet. I probably feel most at home when working.
And the toughest?
The toughest is the inconsistency of the industry. It’s up then down then up again. You have to have strong willpower and confidence to stick it out. I also work very hard on maintaining my figure, which can also be difficult at times.
Best book/documentary/film you’ve devoured recently?
So I was obsessed with this series on Amazon prime called American Gods. If you’re into weird sci-fi stuff or any mythological creatures l’d highly recommend. I also love Penny Dreadful and the documentary Amy. I know that was a bit of a jump LOL.
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
I have a steamer for my face. I’ll usually add some rose water, lay back, and let that do its thing, which is relaxing. I’ll also have a hot bubble bath, especially after walking a lot.
Features Editor: Emily Royal Photos: Emma Anderson Fashion: Dominick Barcelona Hair: Izumi Sato Makeup: Chloe Grae
Rose & Alex are represented by APM New York
Antonio, Dillon and Izzy are represented by RM Management
