When Shirin Akter Shela walks into a room, one cannot help but gasp at her commanding presence. The former Miss Universe Bangladesh is no stranger to representing Bangladesh on the international stage, and this time, she won the Model Star Award in South Korea's Asia Model Festival, which she also judged.

She gave an exclusive over-the-phone interview to The Daily Star, just after the event.

Where are you right now?

I am still in South Korea, at the after-party of the event. It has been exhilarating, to say the least. In 2019, I was a participant in the same event, and now I took the judge's seat – it is truly and honour. It is also very heartening to see the Bangladeshi contingent perform well here.

Who, among the Bangladeshi participants, did well?

Mir Maryam Ahmed reached the Top 10 of the 'Face of Asia' segment. Besides her, Hasnat Jami was also noticeable in the event.

Where is does the modeling industry in Bangladesh stand right now?

Despite our greatest efforts, there is a lot left to be desired in terms of events. For example, we used to have the Bangladesh Fashion week, which does not take place any more. Whatever achievements that we have in this field, it is the result of earnest efforts from a very limited number of people in this sector.

On that note, I would really like to thank Azra Mahmood for her constant mentorship and support for this programme.

You have achieved a lot at this young age. Do you feel like you could mentor some up-and-coming models in the future?

I cannot even think about mentoring someone, as so many seniors whom I idolize are still in their prime. I just mentioned Azra Mahmood, and there are many other talented individuals, who deserve the title of a 'mentor'. I am just happy to be able to represent Bangladesh.

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Shirin Akter Shela is now a judge at Asia Model Festival

We saw at a recent event by The Daily Star, that you are great at dance as well.

(Laughs) When Blender's Choice-The Daily Star OTT and Digital Content Awards asked me to perform here, I was already learning Bharatnatyam for three months! I am glad that I was able to pull it off with limited experience, and after seeing that, Chorki also hit me up for a performance for their one-year anniversary programme.

You really came into your own as an actor in "Pett Kata Shaw". Do you want to sign up for more acting gigs now?

I might, but I want to state clearly that my identity will always be as a model. I have lived and breathed this industry for a long time. If I had to pick an alternate career, it would be to act, but I will never forget my roots.