A former Sunshine Coast schoolgirl’s spirits are soaring now that her modelling career has taken flight to America.
Eleven years of persistence in the fickle industry has finally paid off for Noosa local Elke Kahler.
Being the ‘face of Qantas’ has helped the 26-year-old take her career from national to international level – a step many models only dream about – after recently making the move to the USA.
“I’ve worked for Qantas on three different occasions over the past four years in numerous digital and print ads,” Elke said.
“However, the most recent and my favourite was an ad shot in Perth which is currently airing.”
The 2013 Sunshine Beach State High School graduate said she was ready and excited to “make a splash” in the commercial market in Los Angeles.
“I’m excited to see what opportunities arise for me in the US,” she said.
“At this stage, I see myself based here for at least three years and I definitely hope to keep working with Qantas in the future.
“They’re one of my favourite clients.”
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Elke’s humble start in modelling was on Noosa’s picturesque beaches.
She relocated to Bondi Beach just a few years ago.
“My parents put me into modelling from about six and I’ve loved it ever since,” Elke said.
“My very first job was a print ad in a magazine for the cinema at Sunshine Plaza with my brother.
“From there, I’ve done a lot of fashion, fitness, swimwear and lifestyle modelling, as well as now having done countless TV and social media ads, including being splashed across buses for a national Amazon campaign.”
Elke said her key piece of advice for others aspiring to follow a similar path was to never turn down an opportunity.
“My advice would be to try and get in front of the camera as much as possible,” she said.
“It’s all experience so the more you can shoot with whatever photographers you can, the more comfortable and confident you will be and that definitely resonates in the images.
“Also, get a solid portfolio together and send it out to agencies.
“Always take advice from agents and keep persisting. For me, it’s been a long journey to get to where I am but definitely rewarding.”
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