Pictured Above: Givenchy Wool jacket; Hermès Cotton crepe tanktop

Congratulations on winning the Men’s Folio Model Of The Year 2022 competition. What were your thoughts when you first heard the news?
I was in disbelief for sure but also relieved that all the anticipation that came with this competition was over. I feel blessed to have all the love and support from the people that were rooting and voting for me till the final stage of the competition.

Can you describe yourself to the readers?
I’d describe myself to be a very spontaneous person. I would think I have a friendly personality and am always eager to meet new people and make new friends from all walks of life. It makes me realise how much of this world I haven’t discovered. I am generally passionate about anything athletic and the outdoors, be it going on a hike, fishing, or bowling — you name it. I love a challenge.

Was modelling something you ever thought you would try out?
I’ve honestly never considered modelling before this. I used to be an active photographer, and at some point, I just became so used to being behind the camera that being in front of it had never really crossed my mind.

What has changed about you since you started modelling?
The biggest change I saw in myself was my sense of fashion. The number of shoots I’ve done with many expressive individuals has heavily influenced me to break out of my comfort zone and try on other types of clothing styles. I’m out of my monotonous B&W era, and before this, I think I never knew what my style was or what I felt good in. I used to throw on whatever looked presentable — a formal white shirt, long black pants and lace-up shoes. Over time, I’ve received so much pleasant commentaries on how I’ve expressed myself through my newfound flair, and it wouldn’t have been possible if not for modelling.

You mentioned on set for this shoot that this was all a random and bizarre experience. Could you tell us more about what you’ve learnt from modelling?
Through modelling, I’ve learned to carry myself in the most confident and poise manner, especially when I get to be the canvas and bear the beautiful work of others. I’ve learned to be composed in front of the camera without being too self-conscious. In the past, I remember being very cautious about how I looked, and it included even the nitty-gritty details. I’d like to assume that it also came from my lack of confidence in myself and my doubts.

What do you think of the modelling scene in Singapore?
I think the modelling scene in Singapore has potential. It comes with many high expectations, and it’s nice seeing a lot of familiar faces on social media becoming models. A lot of people, in my opinion, at least, don’t think of modelling when they start creating content on social media. We don’t think of how doing one thing could lead to something fulfilling. But it is definitely more accessible now.


Louis Vuitton Wool-blend baseball jacket, nylon pants; Silas’ own cotton briefs

There are only a handful of minority models like yourself in Singapore. Would you consider that the biggest challenge facing representation in the industry today?
I wouldn’t consider it the biggest challenge. In fact, I take it as an opportunity to inspire others like me — as a minority — that they’re capable of taking a shot in this industry. It’s also about taking a leap of faith and putting their talent out there in good faith that this industry is working towards equality.

What do you think can change?
It’s the lack of opportunities and variety of minority talents in the local creative industry that I believe needs improvement. It does tend to bring down morale, especially when we don’t get to see much of our own. We see a few other Indian models coming forward with their experiences on how dark or light their skin tones matter as pre-determined requirements. Here in Singapore, we’re getting better at issues such as racism and colourism, but I think we’re far from perfect. We need more inclusiveness with our minority models to see more of them come into play confidently.

Have you gathered some goals now that you are a signed model with Mannequin Studio?
I’d be thrilled to do a commercial for a luxury brand for sure. Also, walking a runway is something I wish to do in the near future.