Like many good modern romances, our friendship with Kaarina started over instagram. We had a little chat with the model and writer about what she’s currently working on, how she got into modelling and what brings her joy! Meet Kaarina Parker.
Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do?
Ko Kaarina tōku ingoa. Nō Aotearoa me Airangi ōku tīpuna. Kei te noho au ki Tāmaki Makaurau.
Kia Ora! My name is Kaarina, I’m a writer and model from Aotearoa (New Zealand).
What do family and friendship mean to you?
Family and friendship mean absolutely everything to me. I think often that we don’t place enough importance on platonic relationships. To me, family means unconditional love and support, which were values I was privileged enough to be raised by. I think friendships should bring joy, love, honesty, and should challenge you when you need it.
What is a message you would give your younger self?
Putting yourself out there is much less scary than never trying any of the things you secretly yearn to do.
What are you writing?
I love history, and I’ve always been fascinated by the untold stories of women. I’m currently working on a novel called FULVIA, about an extraordinary woman who lived in ancient Rome. She became a politician, organised an uprising that burned down the senate, was the first woman to have her face on a coin, and went to war with the emperor Augustus. Eventually, I want to create a whole series of novels that tell the stories of the other incredible women from Roman history, whose names deserve to be known.
How and when did you first get into modelling?
It was February 2020, which I’m sure we all remember was the best possible time to be getting into anything. I have a good friend who is a very talented photographer and stylist – we would mess around with little editorial shoots for fun, then one day I sent the photos to an agency and got signed.
What motto do you live by?
“What other people think about you is none of your business.”
What brings you joy?
Sunsets, cheeseboards, laughing with my friends over a bottle of wine until my cheeks hurt. Writing on rainy days with my cat on my lap. Seeing my family happy.
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