Five Minutes With: Arna Walts – The First Caribbean Model to Grace our Digital Covers
A recent Photograph of Arna Walts taken by Teresa Geer
We caught up with the gorgeous and witty Arna Walts to talk about life after being one of our cover stars, her love for acting and the rise and rise of African fashion globally - “Arna was the first Caribbean model to grace our digital covers back in February 2011″
• Tell us how life has been after being on our February 2011 Cover?
It was great to be on the cover of Zen Magazine for two reasons – Zen was my first magazine cover ever and I was also the first Caribbean model to get a front cover feature. It was a great feeling to know that I achieved my first cover through Zen and also made a part of the magazine’s history. Since being on the cover of Zen Magazine, I have had so many great modelling opportunities from catwalk, music videos, photo-shoots to commercials and I have really benefited and grown not only as a model but also as a person.
• We heard you started getting regular acting roles, how has that experience been for you?
I have been acting since the age of 16 and since working with Zen Magazine I have taken part in a variety of projects in film, television and stage and each production has been a great stepping stone as it has helped to get me to where I am today and where I am heading to in the industry.
Arna photographed at the London School of Fashion
• Away from the movie scene, we know how connected you are with fashion. Since our last feature, what has changed for you in terms of style?
In terms of style, I would say I am always changing my fashion sense depending on the weather, occasion, event or my mood. Some believe fashion is what you wear I believe it’s how you wear it. In terms of style I have definitely gone from laid back and summery to cosy and snug to adapt to the winter season. Just like the season fashion changes too.
• Do you think African prints are doing well on the global scene?
I know for a fact that African prints have made an impact on the global scene and African fashion has been put on the map. Whether it’s the printed maxi-dress or floral print clothing, you can easily connect with African designs through the details in the fabric. African print has inspired the detailing of many fashion garments today.
• You always seem to look so slim – do you diet or have a workout program?
Thank you. I don’t diet, I think everyone has probably tried some form of diet and as we all conclude it doesn’t really work and if it does the result doesn’t stay for long. I think the best way to stay in shape is to go for a good old fashioned run, to the gym or to take part in some form of exercise that you enjoy so it doesn’t really seem like work. I never really go to the gym or run as I think it’s important to find something you enjoy doing and keep at it. I started to attend basketball sessions once a week in the evening to keep up with my fitness as part of a group activity, I attend Zumba classes now and again, I like to cycle and swim occasionally and I enjoy walking on a regular basis.
• Who inspires you?
There are many people that I am inspired by. I am inspired by God on a daily basis as God is the reason I am here today. My mother, family and friends also inspire me.
• What’s most important to you in your career now?
The most important thing for me in my career right now is being myself and enjoying the experiences that have come, appreciating the different people I get to meet on a daily basis and being able to look back at the progress that I have made from the start to this present time. I am looking ahead as I know where I’ve come from and I know the future is looking bright.
Photographs by Teresa Geer
