Simon Tham: A Model Star in the Making

ABDI OLOW

Fresh off from a shoot for Ralph Lauren, the modelling world’s newest discovery and Major Models current “it” boy, Simon Tham, shares his life and work with us.

The perfect blend of ethnicities, as his New York agent Thomas Winslow calls him, Simon is a star in the making.

A New York Minute

GLOSS: What’s it like modelling in New York?

Simon Tham: So far it’s great! It’s a fast-paced lifestyle with a lot of uncertainty, which is probably not for everyone, but I enjoy it. I like walking around the city and having a pretty good amount of free time. I grew up in the sprawling suburbs of Mississauga, so to live in New York is an exciting change, at least for the moment.

Discovery

GLOSS: What motivated you to get into modelling, or how were you discovered?

Simon Tham: I was in first year at The University of Western Ontario, and was in an annual charity fashion show called Caisa for the Children’s Health Foundation. Brandon Hall from Sutherland Models in Toronto was at the show to scout, and I started with them shortly after, when finals finished. He was impressed with my dance moves.

Modelling 

GLOSS: What is the most difficult part of being a male model?

Simon Tham: I could see it being staying positive and keeping focused. I don’t think they really apply to me though, because I’m new and I intend to not let them affect me later.

Undressed

GLOSS: A lot of male models are always put in little or no clothing for editorial shoots. What is it like and how does one get comfortable being in front of the camera with little clothing?

Simon Tham: Well, I had to get used to it pretty quickly upon arriving to New York! Obviously, being comfortable with your body will make it easier, as will feeling comfortable with the photographer and crew. Maybe skinny-dipping in Cuba helped too.

Reality 

GLOSS: How do you deal with rejection?

Simon Tham: I’ve adopted a mentality of not placing too much hope on booking certain jobs, and rather focus on the castings I have ahead of me and other things I want to do with my day. I understand that rejection is part of the industry. Even coming to New York, I figured I’d stay as long as things are working out for me. If they don’t, I’ll head home and continue with my life.
 
Under the Microscope

GLOSS: How does it feel to constantly be judged (i.e., being a model, going to castings, etc.)?

Simon Tham: It’s another thing models just have to get used to. Personality matters, but often there isn’t even a chance for the clients to get to know you as they take Polaroids and move on to the next model. Obviously it’s superficial, but regardless of occupation, everyone is constantly being judged in one way or another.

Modelling Misconceptions

GLOSS: What is one thing that people don’t know about the male modelling industry?

Simon Tham: People may have the impression that models aren’t very smart. The TV show America’s Most Smartest Model doesn’t exactly help. However, I’ve met many intelligent and down-to-earth models in the short time I’ve been in the industry.

Canadian Boy

GLOSS: Where are you from?

Simon Tham: Mississauga, Ontario. I just say Toronto now that I’m in New York, and I usually follow that up with Canada.

GLOSS: What do you miss most about home when travelling?