Meet the model: Aya Jones

I GREW UP WATCHING AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL__. It was my only experience of fashion before I was scouted on Rue de Rivoli in the center of Paris. Modeling had never occurred to me before, but I’ve always been adventurous and impulsive, so I thought I’d give it a shot.

I LIVE IN NEW YORK BUT PARIS IS MY HOMETOWN. I grew up in the 11th arrondissement on the same road as my father’s Ivorian restaurant. I loved it because it was such a lively, warm environment. Every Friday, my dad would organize shows where African dancers and musicians would come to perform. Now I’m based in Manhattan’s East Village; I miss my family and friends at home but I have a really good circle in New York. I’m building a home here, too.

IMAGE-MAKING IS A COLLABORATIVE PROCESS. My parents say that, even from a young age, I loved to pose for photographs – I’ve always had a strong sense of self, and I think this has been really vital to my success. But when it comes to high-fashion photo shoots, it’s a team effort. I get direction from the photographers and stylists, and together we all create a mood and a character. I love seeing the final results because they’re always bursting with creativity.

MY JOB COMES WITH A LOT OF PERKS. For me, the best thing about being a model is that you get to travel the world and encounter all kinds of different places and people. Plus, it allows me to make a good living at a young age and take care of the people I love. The only thing I don’t like about my job is the shoes: there are times when I have to walk the runway in super-high heels that are three sizes too small.

I HAVE A LOT OF ROLE MODELS IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY. I had the pleasure of meeting Grace Coddington when I was just starting out and she told me to keep my eyes wide open and to observe and learn from everyone and everything. I’ve lived by that advice ever since. Naomi Campbell is also a huge inspiration to me: not only is she beautiful, elegant and tenacious, her success and longevity paved the way for other black models like myself. She’s a true icon.

I NEVER MISS A WORKOUT. Staying in shape is very important for a model. I have a lot of fitness apps on my phone so even when I’m on the road I keep up with my regimen – you can squat and crunch anywhere!

MY STYLE CHANGES EVERY DAY. It really depends on how I’m feeling and what I’ve got planned. One day I might be really relaxed in jeans or track pants and sneakers, then the next I’ll go for a really feminine vibe with a dress, makeup and statement jewelry. Since I’ve started working in the fashion industry, my look has definitely become more sophisticated. But in general I just try to hit the mark between effortless and imaginative.

I’VE PERFECTED THE ART OF PACKING. I travel constantly for work so I’ve learned to pack light and only bring the necessities. For a sun vacation, I bring lots of light layers and floaty dresses, plus one smart outfit, just in case. The main thing for me is to be comfortable when I’m traveling as that makes the whole process more pleasurable. I really want to visit the Ivory Coast soon; it’s where my father is from and I haven’t been back in about 15 years. I want to reconnect with roots, my family and my culture.

Follow Aya on Instagram @iamayajones