''I have never dreamt of success but I have worked day and night for it.'' This was my introduction to Mumbai-based model and actor Maitrik Thakkar who is walking for India Luxury Style Week. Confident. Focussed. Ambitious.

''People ask me why I chose modelling and acting as my career path. It’s not an attraction; it's my interest, my passion; posing in front of the camera, walking on the ramp, endorsing brands and styling myself is what I love doing…three years back, when I was doing Chartered Accountancy, everything was stable but the important point was *I was not happy, I was not being true to myself * so I chose to be show the real me. I'm glad I did. Each day I'm learning and growing by observing people who have a lot of experience in this field, and yes with gleaned knowledge of lighting and styling, I  can pose in creatively and add value to the projects I have undertaken.

I've done print campaigns including eBay, Myntra, Flipkart, Idea, Alpha Mall and Pantaloons and have acted in television serials 'Diya Aur Bati Hum'-star plus, 'Qubool Hai'-zee tv, 'Yeh Hai Ashiquee'-bindass, 'Tum Hi Ho Bandu Sakha Tumhi Ho' -zee tv, 'Tu Mera Hero'-star plus and several others. As a model and actor, one needs to experiment with different looks, perhaps play with the hair and beard, cloths and accessorization. You must stand out to garner a following. And, of course, I must stress here upon the important of being fit in this profession!! I do cross fit training everyday and maintain a strict diet of15 boiled eggs, 250-gm chicken, two bowls of salad and an  apple each day.

Based on my experience of three years, aspiring models must get their portfolio done to make a style statement because that would be the first impression. If you are entering this industry for fame, money and partying, then my dear ,you should choose another career! If you genuinely feel modeling and acting is your only interest and that make's you happy then don't worry about how to earn; you will surely make it with dedication, hard work, confidence being prepared. My next project is India Luxury Style Week in Bengaluru and I am very excited and looking forward to working with RD as he is a gem of person! This would be the first time I am walking for ILSW so I looking forward to giving my best! Amongst other projects are a film where I play lead; commercial with Shri Narendra Modi for swachh bharat abhiyan and three print shoots.''

— JASMEEN DUGAL