Evelyn Sato takes on the world

• Photography: Rutvik Katuri • Model: Evelyn Sato • MUAH: Faith Stanek • Wardrobe: Showroom Seven

With a strong passion for modeling, Evelyn Sato began as a professional at the age of 11. She has walked runaways, done campaigns for high fashion brands, and has always inspired people that they can achieve anything in life once they pour their heart into their passion. We don't say you should listen to her, but we just said it.

Jacket & pants by Richards Radcliffe, Jewelry by Erickson Beamon, Heels by Tom Ford

You have a psychological master’s degree, but you work in the modeling industry. Does it help in understanding other people’s emotions or actions?

Being a model with a psychological master’s degree has been a good boon for me in this industry. I understand people’s feelings and reactions from multiple perspectives. I have knowledge of theories of personality. Hence, it makes it easier for me to understand and be aware of how someone with a particular personality type may feel or act in various situations.

What’s the biggest misconception most people have about this field of work?

Many people presume modeling is easy and all luxurious. On the contrary, the reality is that just because it looks easy doesn’t mean it’s easy. There’s a lot involved in being a model that people understandably don’t know about. It is a commitment to fitness and self-grooming too.

Dress by ZCRAVE, Jewelry by Erickson Beamon, Boots by Versace

From what I know, you also have experience in acting. Do you ever think about going back to it?

Yes, I’m currently auditioning for a couple of projects. I’m also expanding on my training with acting classes.

You are very much into taking care of your body and mind. How do you do that?

I have always prioritized taking care of my body and mind. Even when I am swamped, I fit in time for exercising or even taking a break by stepping away from what I am doing. The things I do for my growth and health help me to be more productive at the end of the day. I like to tune in to my mind and body to check what I need and adjust to get that balance.

Coat by LK Bennett, Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

Many people never (or very rarely) find time for themselves. I think it’s absolutely important, no matter what, right?

We function better when we take care of ourselves. Finding time for oneself is an essential part of self-care.

How can we do it if our schedule is close to insane?

Pick what you enjoy or may need at a given moment and try to be creative to achieve it. I like to step away from what I am doing, even if for only 20-30 minutes, to go for a walk, listen to music, and refresh my face with a cleanse and a fresh skin regimen during a hectic schedule.

Blazer & Trouser by Mola Walker, Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

Since you are doing a lot of things, is there one you hold closer to your heart than others?

I always make time to speak to loved ones like my mother. Keeping connected to others is not only part of my self-care and balance in my life, but it is something I love and care to do.

Do you believe in luck or hard work?

Hard work will always pay off. Being at the right place at the right time can create an opportunity. To make that opportunity come to life takes hard work. I am a firm believer in hard work.

What’s your take on expectations – a good or a bad thing?

I think expectations are reasonable, as long as they are realistic. Having expectations guides what I am looking for or working towards.

Coat by LK Bennett, Jewelry by Erickson Beamon

We all know it’s like that, but why do you think so? We want something, we get it, and the minute we get it, we want the next thing.

We get gratification and move on to the next thing that will give us that same rewarding feeling. These days, most people spend less time being present at the moment; how technology has progressed, affects our ability to stay with that gratification for longer.

What are you currently working on?

I’m excited to be getting ready for the upcoming New York Fashion Week.

What's your biggest dream?

It has always been a dream of mine to be on the cover of a fashion magazine. I am making my dreams come true through modeling, and I am super excited for the near future in the fashion industry that I love dearly.