Executive of many talents

Interview with model Mohd Hanif Shaarani (Hanif Shawn) for The Mod Life

AS A qualified physiotherapist, Zumba instructor and corporate communications executive Mohd Hanif Shaarani, who goes by the name Hanif Shawn, has his sights set on modelling too.

Having stopped working at a hospital late last year, he now works in corporate communications by day, practises physiotherapy on a freelance basis and conducts Zumba classes in his spare time.

“I made the decision to shift to the corporate world for the sake of my ambition, because I want to see advancements in my career,” explained Hanif, who is from Subang Jaya.

Although his recent venture into modelling was somewhat by accident, Hanif is eager to develop himself further as a model.

While he was working as a physiotherapy lecturer in 2013, he stopped by to check out a booth that, unbeknown to him, was recruiting for a model search contest in a local youth magazine.

“They snapped a picture of me and a few months later, I received a call telling me I was shortlisted for the contest and I had absolutely no idea what they were talking about,” said Hanif.

He won third place in the competition and was rewarded a photoshoot in Bali, Indonesia, after which his photos were featured extensively in an issue of the magazine.

Though he does not have the height for runway modelling, Hanif is keen on getting into modelling for more photoshoots and television commercials, and he would also love to be a television host someday.

Hanif admitted to being a bit of a workaholic and hardly has time on the weekends, as he is either dedicated to work or working out at the gym.

“Outside of work, I am at the gym almost every day so I have only weekend nights to spend time with my family, catch a movie or catch up with friends,” he added.

What is your favourite music genre?

“I love R&B because it is a little slower and more relaxing to listen to.”

What is one activity you would like to try?

“I actually have not tried trampolining at JumpStreet yet. I never have the time to try it but I really want to go someday.”

Where is one place you would like to retire to?

“Maybe on the outskirts of Istanbul, which is one of three places in the world that I would really like to see.”

Who is one fictional character that you admire?

“I was into Harry Potter when I was younger and I think one thing that I admire about him is how he survived and endured all the challenges that he faced.”

What is one pet peeve that you have with other people?

“I cannot stand rude people in general.”

Factfile

Model: Mohd Hanif Shaarani

Born: Nov 3, 1987

Ethnicity: Malay

Fluent languages: English, Malay, Mandarin (conversational)

> StarMetro accepts outside requests to feature both male and female modelling talents in The Mod Life. Those who are interested may send their enquiries to the writer via email.