Name: Kristina Akheeva
Place of Birth: Russia
Agency: People Management
Been here for 1 month

HOW DO YOU FIND SINGAPOREANS?

They are so friendly, and they are so willing to help! When I first arrived, I had to go for a casting, but I didn't know how to get there. I asked some people, but they couldn't explain it to me. Next thing I know, they got into their car, drove up to me and offered to drive me to the casting. I thought that was really lovely of them!

There was one guy who works at a 7-Eleven. I was trying to use the phonecard I bought, but it kept telling me that I got the wrong number. He spent one hour with me just trying to dial the numbers for me. Then he gave me his number and said that if I ever need help again in Singapore, I can call him.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT BEING A MODEL?

I like being able to portray different characters. Sometimes I'm a classy lady, sitting on a beautiful sofa, and sometimes I'm something else. That may not be you naturally, and you have to know how to portray different attitudes with your eyes.

HAVE YOU EVER DONE PHOTOSHOOTS THAT YOU'RE NOT COMFORTABLE WITH?

Initially, like when you have to do a shoot that portrays you as nude, even though in reality certain parts of you are covered up. I don't think that the photographer is looking at me in a sexual way. All the photographers see is the product that needs to be marketed, and the finished photoshoot that is meant for advertising. Knowing this helps me become more comfortable.

This article was first published in The New Paper on Aug 31, 2008.