Model Jayarubini Sambanthan takes a leap of faith going into Asia’s Next Top Model while dealing with the darkest phase of her life
SPORTING a blazer and mini skirt ensemble with her short locks tucked behind her ears is Jayarubini Sambanthan, the next local beauty to look out for.
With a charming smile, she greets the Press for this interview. She exudes a gleeful vibe and an affable personality.
Jayarubini, or Rubini as she’s fondly known, is the only Malaysian representative in Asia’s Next Top Model (AsNTM)season 6.
“I feel so honoured to be representing my country for this reality modelling competition. Who knew that I’d be where I am today. The journey has been a dream,” she said.
But the dream had also turned into a nightmare as she also had to deal with the death of her brother.
“That was the darkest phase of my life. My mental health was just not in the right state,” she said.
The opportunity to be a part of AsNTM came while she was still reeling over the loss of her brother.
The 27-year-old was close to her sibling and his death had a great impact on her.
She revealed that the show’s production crew members had scouted for her through Instagram.
“They sent me messages telling me how they would love to have me on the show. I was hesitant at first due to the heartbreaking situation back home, I wasn’t sure if it was the right time to pursue this.
“But after words of encouragement from my family and boyfriend, I decided to take a leap of faith,” she said.
She admitted that part of the reason she agreed to it was to keep busy and distract her mind from feeling sad.
“There’s this void that possibly won’t ever be filled. But I told myself that if I don’t do this now, when will I ever do it? An opportunity like this doesn’t come often,” she added.
“I often say this — turn your struggles into strength. And this is what I did for myself,” she added.
PLATFORM TO SHARE STORIES
Some girls venture into the world of modelling for the fame and glamorous life but that’s not the goal for Rubini.
As she did not come from a wealthy background, Rubini worked various jobs after her SPM to help support her family.
“My objective in life is to ease my family’s financial burden.
“My younger brother is pursuing his master’s degree so the responsibility falls on me now that my other brother isn’t around and my parents have retired.
“I know what it feels like to struggle. These are the kind of stories I hope to inspire throughout my time with the show.
“I am always looking for a platform to share my stories and inspire others, and AsNTM is a big enough platform to do so,” said Rubini, who has a degree in Accounting and Finance.
KEEPING IT PROFESSIONAL
Having represented the nation at the Miss International pageant in Japan in 2014 (which she won), Rubini shared that the most important work ethic of a model is professionalism.
“How you carry yourself in this modelling world is important. Being the oldest among the contestants in the competition is a challenge but I have to keep things professional and prove that I can bring my A-game too,”she said.
“Malaysians will be watching my every move on the show, so I have to be professional despite the drama.”
BREAKING STEREOTYPES
“Models are perceived as bimbos and that’s what I’d like to change.
“I hope to break the stereotype and show the world that modelling isn’t just about the glamorous life.”
AsNTM6 premieres on Aug 22 on Astro FoxLife (Astro Ch711 and 722 HD, and Unifi TV Ch 455).