I do not have a size 2 body or a tiny button nose, nor am I 5’11” and always acne free – Haoquing Geng

Haoquing Geng was born and raised in Beijing, China until the age of 19. She’s proud and grateful for her culture and ethnicity. She has lived in NYC since 2019 and loves the nonstop buoyant energy here. The industry has shown her some tough love, and she’s growing every day as a model.  

Here is the interview of Haoquing Geng with us. 

How do you spend your free time? 

I enjoy my weekly yoga and Pilates practices, going for a walk in a park or a neighborhood to soak in the beauty of the city, the endless selections of amazingly curated museum exhibitions and galleries around town, and thrifting. I also fancy going out when my schedule allows, because I always make heart-striking connections that remind me of how big and complex the city is.  

Who got you inspired to get into the fashion industry? 

I watched the entirety of “Sex and the City” in middle school, so SJP(AKA Sarah Jessica Parker) must be the answer! 

What were the major challenges faced by you in the industry? 

I do not have a size 2 body or a tiny button nose, nor am I 5’11” and always acne-free. These “imperfections” make it harder for me to be a traditional fashion model, but I am completely confident and proud of my natural look. I do my best to showcase authenticity because I believe that it is the most valuable asset in the industry. 

How helpful and friendly do you find people in the industry? 

From my fellow models who show me support and care, to makeup artists and hairstylists that I work with all the time, to photographers and stylists that give me tips and suggestions, to casting directors and scouts that I get to meet occasionally, and designers that I love and look up to — everyone has something I can learn from in the industry. I have received help from countless aspiring and kind people over the years, and I am truly thankful for everyone, even the scammers that teach me valuable lessons. 

What are your views on World Model Hunt and their diversity project? 

I find the work done by WMH Magazine to be inspiring and influential. I am an advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the industry and knowing that I am collaborating with a publication that shares the same values are very important to me. I loved every step of the process, and I am grateful to be on the cover of the magazine. 

According to you, what was the point in your career that made you realize that you can, and you will pursue modeling as a career? 

It was during my first paid runway show here in the SS2019 season when I first moved to the city. Being a part of NYFW, facing the paparazzi at Pier 59, meeting the casting directors putting together the show, getting my makeup and hair done by the professionals, getting to know models from all around the world and chasing after their dreams like me, I felt like I belong in this place. I was accepted, respected, taken care of, and treated fairly. That moment was the cornerstone that gave me faith, courage and love for all my hard work, progress, and persistence over the next few years.