interview

Name:
Aljan Jandarbekov (@jndrbkqvv)

Pronouns:
he/him

Agency:
Elite Paris, Silence Models (Almaty – mother agency)

Age:
18

Height:
6’2.5″

Place of Origin:
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Ethnic Origin:
Kazakh

Birthsign:
Aquarius

Did you always want to be a model? Tell us about how you were discovered.
I didn’t always plan on becoming a model. People often told me I should try it, but I never took it seriously and just saw it as a compliment. I was discovered after my photos were shared in a modeling group chat in Kazakhstan and caught the attention of my future mother agency.

Most memorable modeling experience so far?
My most memorable experience was receiving a call confirming me for Dior while I was backstage at my debut show Louis Vuitton. I couldn’t believe it when it happened the first time, and then the exact same thing happened again this season. Walking for both Louis Vuitton and Dior on the same day, two seasons in a row, still feels completely surreal to me.

One song you have on repeat, and why?
I’m one of those people who can never name just one favorite song. But when I find something I really 1 like, I listen to it on repeat until I know every detail. My favorite genre is electronic music, and lately I’ve been listening to more ambient tracks, like “Worry” by LONOWN and “Afterglow” by NBSPLV. I also listen to songs over and over because it makes it easier for me to pick out the melodies by ear and play them later on the piano.

What other passions do you have aside from modeling?
My biggest passions outside of modeling are music and cooking. I’m a self-taught pianist, and I love learning melodies by ear and creating my own interpretations of them. Cooking gives me that same feeling it allows me to experiment, be creative, and express myself in a different way. For me, both music and food are languages through which I can share my emotions and personality.

What is something you’ve always wanted to do/try?
I’ve always wanted to go skydiving. There aren’t many opportunities to do it in Kazakhstan, but as soon as I get the chance, I’m definitely doing it. I’ll probably be terrified, but that’s exactly why I want to try it.

What’s one thing people may be surprised to find out about you?
I have seven cats and one dog at home. Every day feels a little like living in a zoo, but I honestly love it.

What change would you like to see in the world?
I would like to see a world where more people can live happy and peaceful lives, without having to suffer from hunger or war. Everyone deserves to feel safe, have access to basic necessities, and have the opportunity to build a better future.