In an exclusive interview, The UBJ sat down with Cindy Cederlund to talk Cannes Film Festival and life before Los Angeles.
Hi Cindy, welcome to The UBJ! Was it always your dream to be in the entertainment industry?
No, it wasn’t at all. I grew up in Brussels, known for being the capital of Europe where you have the European Commission and Parliament. Being in such an international environment, I wanted to become a UN ambassador or diplomat. I had this ideal that if the world was more multi-cultural, there would be less conflicts and I wanted to be part of that change. I applied in the top program to be a diplomat in Sweden and got accepted with scholarship. In 2016, I went to the Cannes Film Festival with my friends for fun and randomly got scouted onsite. I then moved to Los Angeles got sidetracked from diplomacy and have been modeling since between the US and Europe which I like a lot.
What got you into modeling and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
My first modeling job was 10 years ago for Abercrombie and Fitch and Hollister. Then I took a break and decided to study in College in Sweden even though I kept on getting modeling job offers. When I was discovered by a major film company and offered to move to California, it felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity and I couldn’t resist to say YES. I have been working since as an international model which gave me the right foundation for stability and to follow my dreams. Also working in the industry taught me about my management skills of making things happen and to bring people together on an exciting creative vision.
How would you describe the projects that you typically prefer?
I love working on campaigns and during fashion weeks because I get to meet fashion designers and connect with incredible people.
Has there been one particular moment in your career that you’re most proud of?
I would say I’m proud of my whole journey overall because of the incredible opportunities that it came with and the wonderful people I have met along the way. Each moment of my modeling career was necessary and special.
What’s been the pros and cons of pursuing your career?
For me the highs are that I love meeting all these talented people that come your way with modeling. Fashion designers, photographers, directors, hair and make- up stylists. They really are fantastic people with interesting stories. Also, you get to travel to exotic or beautiful destinations for work and sometimes you even get to keep the goods which is always a perk.
The only con is that I can get a bit restless while waiting around during castings. Sometimes it can be up to two hours or more if there are any delays. Now I always bring with me a book or my computer to get some work done and be productive while waiting.
As a successful model, you have worked with many brands, do you have any others on your bucket list?
I love fashion and haute couture, but the dominant brands today have European heritage and I think the next generation of luxury brands would be American. It would be an honor to work with the next upcoming Marc Jacobs or Tom Ford. I have always wanted to collaborate with cosmetic or jewelry brands as well.
If you weren’t into modelling what else would you be doing?
I would either be in diplomacy or a filmmaker. You never know!
Finally, any advice you would give any model or even actor who is trying to break into the entertainment industry?
It’s one thing to have beauty and charms but hard work and determination is more important.
How can people find and follow your journey?
Thank you so much. People can follow me on Instagram.
Our thanks to Cindy Cederlund for taking the time for this interview.