THE ADVENTURES OF DON GHOTTI & DON PITTS: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - SUPER MODEL

SUPER MODEL - ONIRA TARES

We sat down and and spoke to the beautiful and very talented Supermodel Onira Taresand here's what she had to say:

1. Where are you originally from?

Originally I am from the Bay Area in California. East Palo Alto to be exact, but I've moved around a lot. I've gone from there, to Jersey, to DC, and now I've made Atlanta my home. We'll see where I end up next!

2. Who or what influenced you to get into the fashion industry?
Well honestly, it's interesting, I kind of fell into this industry. I originally fought the idea of being a model. My mom used to try to get me to model a lot when I was young, but I was more interested in theater and acting. I finally gave it a chance when I moved to Atlanta, and I'm so glad that I did. It's just the excitement of it, the beauty of it, even the chaos of it all that drew me to the fashion industry. It's amazing the different emotions that come along with showcasing a simple garment. There's just an energy about it I can't fully explain.

3. How did you get started in the industry?
It's kind of a funny story. When I first moved to Atlanta, I was in a library printing out some resumes looking for a job, and on my way out I met someone who invited me to a rehearsal for their fashion show and asked me to be in the show. Of course I was hesitant, but something told me I should just check it out. So, I ended up going to the rehearsal and from that moment, I fell in love. It was a little scary at first, but I knew this was something I wanted to continue doing. I then started doing several fashion shows in the Atlanta area and decided to get runway training, which led to print work, and it all grew from there. It just seemed I was in the right place at the right time! It somehow shows me that this was all meant to be.
4.Who is your favorite designer?

Mychael Knight of Project Runway: Season 3 I have to say is my fave! Everything he makes fits me to a tee, and he has a great way of capturing your personality in each of his pieces.

5.Which do you prefer print or runway?

That's a hard question! I love both so much! There's nothing like strutting down the runway, there's such a rush, it's exhilarating. But there's also nothing like losing yourself in front of the camera either. I love that each garment I model allows me to embody a different character. From pose to pose, there's a transformation. I love it! Sorry, I don't think I answered the question, ha ha! I guess I love them both!
6. I read that you are an aspiring actress. Which is more exciting modeling or acting?
Well I do have to say that acting is my first "true love", but I have grown to love modeling very much also. There's just a passion that acting gives me that nothing ever will. Acting, to me, is about teaching people and touching people. There are so many stories out there waiting to be told, and being a part of putting a smile on someone's face or touching their heart is the true blessing behind acting. Being able to make someone actually feel your emotions by simply watching you on screen is absolutely amazing to me. I'm getting excited just thinking about it!

7. How much dedication does it take to become a successful model and/or actress?
It takes SO much dedication! You truly have to live and breathe what you do in this industry. You constantly have to stay on the grind, looking for that next job, that next opportunity, even if you are working. And while you are working, you still have to make time to grow in your craft. If you want to be successful, you have to know that you must do what it takes to stay on top of your game. Take the acting classes, study the magazines, it will only make you better. With all that being said, there are still sacrifices to be made. Sometimes one's social life may suffer because you are constantly working, or you may miss your family because you are constantly traveling. But if you truly love what you do, it will all be worth it.

8.What is it about the fashion and entertainment industry?

Well I think Beyonce said it best: "It's the Lights! Action! Hollywood!" Of course the excitement that comes along with the industry is part of what makes it so great. You get to meet tons of people, travel, all while doing what you love. However, it's not all peaches and cream because it takes a lot of hard work. There are such long hours, it literally never stops. But for me, it's about the passion. It's about connecting with people inside. It's about the growth. I love it all inside and out.

9. What advice can you give young men and women who are trying to get into the industry?

I would just say never give up. The only way you can fail is if you stop trying. You simply have to believe in yourself and put in the work, and success is sure to follow. Do the networking, take the classes, and build on your craft. People can be very cut throat in this business so you also have to know who you are. Never let anyone change you. Know what you will and will not do. Stay grounded. And always, always be humble! Thank God every day for all that you have accomplished…

10. With your busy schedule do you have time for a social life?
Well, not as much time as I'd like to, but again it's just a sacrifice I've had to make. But honestly, even when I get really busy I just have to make myself MAKE TIME. Although it's easy to become engrossed in what you do, there also has to be some type of balance. All work and no play doesn't work for me too long, ha ha!

11. What is attractive to you?
Ambition. Passion. Spirituality. Hard work. A Challenge…

12. Any new projects that we should be looking out for?
Yes, I am currently working on a couple of film projects that I am set to begin shooting shortly. I just wrapped up a film titled "Seven Days of Yellow", featuring work from an Emmy nominated Director of Photography! It's very exciting, so you can look out for that early next year! I am also currently featured in hair ads that run in "Black Hair" and "Hype Hair" magazines. Also be sure to check me out in upcoming ads for Mychael Knight's new fragrance, "Majk", which is set to be released very soon. Please check your magazines! Of course, I will certainly keep Felicitous updated on all there is to come!

Thank you Felicitous for letting me share my thoughts with you and your audience. It was a true pleasure! God Bless.