Shanina Shaik: From Victoria’s Secret Catwalk to Entrepreneurial Dreams
Australian supermodel Shanina Shaik, a familiar face on international runways, has opened up about the pivotal moments that shaped her glittering career. While her early break came in the now-defunct reality series Make Me a Supermodel in 2008, it was her debut in the prestigious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2011 that truly catapulted her into the global spotlight.
Now a mother and a seasoned figure in the fashion industry, Shaik, 35, reflects on that first walk for the iconic lingerie brand with profound sentiment. “My first Victoria’s Secret show will always be my favorite memory,” she shared, highlighting the profound impact it had on her professional journey. “Truly, it changed my life and my career. I’ll never forget that feeling of stepping onto that runway for the very first time.”
The significance of this milestone was amplified by the presence of her mother, who travelled all the way from Australia to New York to witness her daughter’s triumph. “I flew my mum over from Australia to watch me walk, and having her there meant everything to me,” Shaik explained, underscoring the personal joy that accompanied the professional achievement. Her subsequent appearances for Victoria’s Secret, gracing the runway in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2018, further cemented her status as a sought-after supermodel.
Beyond the dazzling world of high-fashion lingerie, Shaik has lent her considerable talent to some of the most esteemed names in the industry, including Chanel, Tom Ford, and Seafolly. Her journey, however, is far from solely defined by her modelling prowess. Looking ahead, Shaik expresses a keen interest in exploring new creative avenues.
“I’ve been so grateful for everything I’ve experienced in front of the camera, especially moments like walking for Victoria’s Secret, but I feel like there’s still so much I want to explore,” she stated. This desire for exploration is leading her towards entrepreneurial ventures, with a particular focus on her burgeoning Korean-inspired skincare brand.
Embracing New Roles: From Model to Creative Director
Shaik’s ambition extends beyond the spotlight of modelling. She finds a different kind of excitement in the realm of behind-the-scenes creation. “Lately, I’m really drawn to being more behind the scenes,” she revealed. “Stepping into the founder role for my own brand, being in the creative director seat, the storytelling, the product … that excites me in a different way.”
This shift in focus also hints at a potential foray into acting. While she has had previous acting experience, including a role in the 2017 film The Mummy, Shaik remains open to future cinematic opportunities. “And who knows… maybe one day I’ll sit in a cinema and see myself on the big screen. I think evolving and dreaming bigger is part of the journey,” she mused.
A New Campaign and a Touch of Home
Currently, Shaik is turning heads once again as she fronts the new Bases Flex range campaign for the Australian brand Bonds. She stars alongside fellow Australian supermodels Elle Macpherson, 61, and Jennifer Atilémile. Her striking presence in a vibrant red Bonds set has garnered significant attention.
Working with Elle Macpherson evoked a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. “It was a pleasure to catch up with Elle,” Shaik commented. “There’s something beautiful about this industry bringing you back into each other’s worlds after time has passed. Even those small in-between moments backstage feel meaningful. It reminded me how connected the Aussie community is, no matter where we are in the world.”
Motherhood and a Hint of Aussie Charm
Despite living overseas, Shaik remains deeply connected to her Australian roots, a connection she cherishes through her three-year-old son, Zai, whom she shares with Matthew Adesuyan. Little Zai, it seems, is already picking up an unmistakable Aussie lilt.
“He definitely has a little Aussie accent when he says certain words!” she laughed. “It’s the funniest thing, hearing him switch between his American accent and an Aussie one.” Zai has already had the pleasure of visiting Australia multiple times, fostering a special bond with his maternal grandmother and extended family. “My son has actually travelled to Australia a few times already, thankfully. He absolutely loves visiting my mum and the rest of the family, it’s so special watching him build that connection to where I’m from.”
For Shaik, motherhood has become her most rewarding role to date. “I absolutely love being a mother to my son,” she declared. “Truly, the best thing about being a mum is simply being Zai’s mum. I feel so grateful every single day to have such a fun, loving, sweet little boy. Motherhood has given me a deeper sense of purpose and joy than I could have ever imagined.”
