At the age of 21, you can be forgiven if you are not too sure what you want to do with your life. For Shana Larsen, this has never been a problem. Our cover girl for 2012 knows exactly what she wants to do in the future; in fact she has it all planned out.
A goal-oriented person, Shana is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Physical Education. “I decided to do a conjoint degree because I want to be a PE and English teacher,” she says. Shana is extremely fit and has a keen interest in health and nutrition, and it's lucky she is so healthy because she leads a very busy life.
During the week she studies in Hamilton, but every weekend she drives back to her home in Waiuku where she works part time as an aerobics instructor at Waiuku Health and Fitness.
It was at work where she first got her 'big break' in modelling. “I was teaching one of my classes when I met a photographer who promised to help me out with a portfolio.” Rebecca Futcher works for Northern Exposure Photography and she soon noticed Shana's talent both in front of and behind the camera.
“I went along with Rebecca to a wedding and took a few photos. I realised I was quite good at it and have been taking photos ever since.” A model herself, Rebecca taught Shana how to work to the camera and gave her some great insider tips. “I'm her little apprentice and she is my mentor. She has given me some really good contacts within the business,” says Shana.
In 2010, Shana decided to apply for elocal's cover girl. “I didn't even get into the top eight,” she laughs. “Last year it was a bit of a long shot, but this year I had more confidence in myself and a better understanding of what the competition was all about.”
And if you thought she was already quite over-committed, with university, modelling and working at the gym, you haven't heard anything yet. Shana has four horses and enjoys show jumping when she has the chance. “I hope to become a more competitive show jumper in the future, but I just don't have the time at the moment.”
Shana also works at Rever Restaurant as a waitress and gives aspiring models advice on how to be successful in the fashion industry. She is the perfect role model for her younger sister Brittany (19), who is following in her big sister's footsteps as a model. “I photographed her portfolio and have given her some advice. I really like helping people,” says Shana.
The future is bright for 2012's Cover Girl, who enjoyed “every minute” of the elocal Cover Girl experience. “But it isn't over yet. I have a whole year to enjoy showcasing local businesses, and I love being part of the elocal team.”