Insanely nomadic and sanely curious, modeling is meant for Sussan Zeck who can stun you by her witty repertoire. The writer model from Germany loves to explore the new faces and spaces, wandering through different lands and stopping at different cafes reading, writing and dinning her affair with herself.
Being followed as a ‘Fresh Face’ by Fashion TV recently in Milan, it’s high on heart, soul and brain, Sussan who is inspiring and enlightening enough to be known. Here is Sussan Zeck herself, taking you through an interesting journey.
Tell us something about your academics and early life?
You could say I was a little Speedy Gonzales. I spent my childhood in Germany surrounded by many animals, always trying to run faster than the slowest cat to grab them. Part of my early life was also my violin, which I had studied since I was a little kid. Later on I attended a high school for special musical and arts education, spending hours a day practicing my violin and getting voice training. Once I graduated, I started travelling for modeling but kept studying new languages and writing for magazines.
The dizzying heights you touched make you stand apart from the rest. Tell us something about your journey from a simple starry eyed lass to a ramp scorcher. How modeling happened to you?
Can I hang your first sentence over my fridge? It will brighten each morning. Fate got me into modeling and this journey was possible because someone believed in me. I got discovered as a teenager by my first agency owner. This moment was the beginning of a new and exciting chapter of my life. My first destinations were Paris and Milan. Sin
ce then, I’ve travelled non-stop. My journey in one sentence: Got a ticket, took a ride.
How do you plan your future and what next goals have you set for yourself?
Keep on keeping on! Professionally, as a model, I want to make all those who helped me on my way & believed in me, proud. And show all those, who never believed in me, that they were wrong. Making exact predictions is tricky, as I usually don’t even know what my plans for the next few hours and days are. I know that I want to build a network which keeps me in any job in the fashion industry, and modeling is a fantastic opportunity to get great contacts. In my personal life, I’d love to visit India. India has a unique blend of colors, history and culture. In life, I don’t go for looks or position, but for the inside of a person. I try never to forget my roots and to stay happy. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Any social cause or issue that has stirred you and you are working for?
For a long time I’ve supported animal welfare with all my heart! But I believe socially-conscious living starts in our daily life. So live your life like a social cause – treat others as you wish to be treated, and help wherever you can. Think once before giving, twice before taking and a thousand times before demanding.
How do you see the future of fashion in India?
I see a bright future for India as an international fashion market. Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Grazia- you name it, India has it! India has an enormous history of art and design based on a wealth of mixed cultural influences. I think the larger global community is starting to remember that again. And with such a large, youthful population, there’s a lot of talent to be developed, discovered, 
and shared. For any model, India is a perfect destination for collecting great print material. Apart from that, India has some of the most promising designers and jewellery designers.
Having been in one of the most glamorous industries, how do you see fashion, from an insider’s point of view?
Fashion is its own lifestyle, and working in fashion is a school for life. Fashion is based on illusions and dreams.
Fashion in India has undergone dramatic changes in a very short span of time and has grown manifold as well. You have been associated with it, so how would you describe the changes in the fashion scene? What about the modeling industry globally and in India at present and what it has grown from?
There are positive changes in sizes, ages and racial diversity. Some markets started having guidelines for working conditions for models. The markets got more competitive everywhere though.
What is Sussan Zeck like as a person? What books do you like; what sort of music do you enjoy; What comprises the most essential part of you other than modeling?
I’m a nomad at heart – that’s probably part of why modeling is a great career for me. But because I’m always travelling, a lot of my interests are mobile ones. I love wandering through old markets collecting antique jewellery, but most of my free time I spend sitting in cafes writing. I read lots of books, books are my life. I listen to all kinds of different music, and speak to all kinds of people. I’m curious about 
the world and try to explore a wide range of experiences so as to stay open-minded.
Tell us also the story backstage about your interactions with the choreographers, model co-ordinators who put together such a picture perfect show?
I believe there is a sun inside of each person, you just need to make that sun shine: teamwork, professionalism, a strong work-ethic, and staying positive and motivated are essential factors to putting on a great show. No matter what time you have to show up, or how long you’ll need to practice, you need to stay motivated by focusing on what you want: a picture perfect show. Whenever I work, I’m working hundred percent but I’m expecting this from the rest of the team as well. Being punctual and friendly is a sign of mutual respect.
What is the secret of your beautiful skin and perfect body?
I once read, each day, a baby gazelle is born knowing she needs to run fast enough to escape the fastest lion, but also each day, a baby lion is born knowing he needs to run faster than the slowest gazelle so as not to starve. No matter if you’re a gazelle or a lion: before the sun rises, you should have started running. I’m always getting up early trying to make the best of every day. Always with a positive attitude ;-)
What is your most treasured possession?
All the memories I keep locked in a box inside of my heart.
Peek – A – Boo
Favourite Indian Designers and why? : Too many talented ones to name them all. Jewellery is my passion and I’m currently obsessed with creations of Cheny Wagma, Tj’s by Tanay Jain and Mira Gulati. Manish Arora and Komal Sood amaze me too.
Favourite International Designers and why? : I love playing different roles, both in front of the camera and in my private life. That’s why I love many different designers and collections, always depending on my mood and the day.
Favourite Food : Italian pasta.
Favourite Holiday Destination : Any big city, watching sparkling city lights at night.
Favourite Perfume : Tom Ford Estee Lauder collection- Amber Nude
Favourite Lingerie Brand : Oops, I forgot the answer…..(winks)
Your Greatest Fear : Right now? That the next question is even trickier…..(smiles)
What do you Love and Hate most?: Hate is a very strong word and I don’t want to hate anything. What I love most is life and all the excitements and chances it brings. That, and being surrounded by my loved ones.
What are you Addicted to (if any)? : Coffee and cookies.
