Born in the vibrant cultural hub of Singapore and seasoned by decades of global corporate leadership, Christina is far from your typical fashion story. At 45, she made the intentional choice to return to her original calling, bringing a “culturally layered” perspective and a CEO’s mindset to the industry. From the pages of Harper’s Bazaar to the runways of New York Fashion Week, Christina proves that true style is built on experience, resilience, and an unwavering sense of self.
1. Christina, you were born in Singapore and have a very diverse cultural heritage. How has growing up between Asia and the West shaped your personal and professional identity?
Born in Singapore—a melting pot of cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity—to parents of mixed heritage, my childhood was defined by constant global travel. Eventually, I moved to Hong Kong and New York City before settling (for now) in Miami.
I’ll admit that while this upbringing was beautiful and enriching, it was also confusing and, at times, alienating. However, a little structure and a quick perspective shift changed everything. Today, I am 100% aligned with the fact that growing up between the East and West blessed me with an incredibly layered identity. I don’t see myself as “fixed”; I’ve learned to carry my experiences with fluidity. This adaptability allows me to step into different environments and narratives while remaining deeply secure in who I am.
2. During your 20s, you chose to step away from modeling to build a global corporate leadership career. What lessons from that business world do you apply to your fashion career today?
Choosing a corporate path over modeling was a difficult decision. To keep a long story short: in my late teens, I lacked the stability and foundation needed to pursue what might have been a calling at the time. A 9-to-5 with a steady paycheck provided a much-needed sense of relief, and in the years that followed, I became addicted to the success that came with it. Fast forward twenty-odd years, and one day it hit me—it just didn’t feel like me. Talk about a dealbreaker! As much as I tried to fight it, a pivot became essential.
That said, my corporate experience gave me the exact business acumen I use as a full-time model today. It taught me discipline, financial prowess, and how to be relentlessly resilient with a strong sense of accountability. I view modeling as a serious career that should be run like any entrepreneur runs a business. It’s a craft that requires focus, dedication, physical and mental awareness, and—my favorite part—a great support system. It has also given me the perspective to prioritize professionalism and communication, allowing me to approach each job with intention rather than just reacting to opportunities as they come.
3. At 45, you made the intentional decision to return to modeling full-time. What motivated you to prioritize longevity and a long-term vision over fleeting trends?
I don’t consider myself to have ever really “left” the industry—the world is, and always will be, my runway! Honestly, it wasn’t about returning to something I’d left behind; it was about returning to the version of myself I was always meant to be. Except this time, I’ve come back with an elevated sense of clarity. At this stage, I’m not driven by trends or quick wins. I understand myself much better now and am exclusively interested in opportunities that align with who I am at my core.
4. You’ve been featured in international editorials like Harper’s Bazaar and walked in New York Fashion Week. Which of these recent achievements has been the most meaningful to you?
Achievements?! I’ve only been back at this for two years! I truly feel like I’m just getting started—check back with me when I’ve earned my place among the industry icons. In the meantime, every experience has been a blessing. There are days when I can hardly believe I’m living a reality where I can pursue this wild dream. Make no mistake, even in this short time, there have been many challenges, but you find those in any path you choose. I prefer to stay focused on the wins; they provide all the affirmation I need to keep going.
If I had to name a major milestone, it would be my 2025 goal of getting signed by reputable agencies in both New York and Miami. I’m proud to have achieved that within my self-imposed timeline—even if that timeline was a tad insane! But if the “crazy” feels right, I say go for it. My teams have been incredible. I’m actually writing this for Vanity Teen from a hotel room in NYC while here for a job. Like, wait… what?!
5. You define yourself as a “global and culturally layered” woman. What kind of stories or projects are you most passionate about telling through your image at this stage of your life?
In this business, you learn quickly that it’s not just about showing up. It’s about showing up prepared, understanding your role, and delivering with clarity. I’m specifically drawn to work that reflects nuance and pays homage to the “alternative” models who stood their ground before me, paving the way for what I’m able to do today.
I love projects that might start with a single label or category but offer the opportunity to subvert those boundaries. I aim to challenge expectations while maintaining a deep respect for industry standards, aesthetics, and beauty. That is where I live.
CREDITS:
PHOTOGRAPHER: GUSTAVO GRANADOS @GUSTAVOGRANADOS
MODEL: CHRISTINA KALI @CHRISTINAKALI
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & FASHION STYLED: CHARINA CHACON @CHARINACHACON
WARDROBE ASSISTANT: CHARYMAR CHACON @CHARYMARCHACON
MAKEUP & HAIR: PIERINA COLOSANTE @PIERIROS.BEAUTY
WARDROBE : FASHION BOUTIQUE IN MIAMI/ WYNWOOD – RUPEES @RUPEES_INC