The Fame Game Featuring Dannielle Kerkoven
By Thasmina Sookoor
Sri Lanka’s fashion and pageantry landscape has long been shaped by individuals who bring both legacy and individuality into their craft. Among them, Dannielle Kerkoven stands out as a name synonymous with elegance, resilience, and evolution. Appearing on The Fame Game with hosts Kumar de Silva and Rozanne Diasz, she offered a candid reflection on her journey, from a young model stepping onto the ramp for the first time to a confident woman embracing motherhood, mentoring, and new opportunities.
Q: Dannielle, you began modelling at a very young age. Coming from a strong fashion background, was modelling always your goal?
A: Not at all. In the beginning, I never really thought about becoming a model. It was not something I had planned. Of course, I had the background, as my family was already involved in the fashion industry, but that did not automatically mean I wanted to pursue it. My entry into modelling happened quite organically. My uncle invited me to walk in his show celebrating 50 years in the fashion industry. I wore my mother’s bridal outfit for that show, and that was my very first experience on the runway. After that moment, something clicked. I realized that this could actually be something enjoyable and fulfilling.
Q: Did your family background, being related to well-known figures in the industry, give you an advantage?
A: It was a mix of both advantage and challenge. Yes, being part of a family deeply connected to fashion opened doors in terms of exposure. However, it also brought criticism. In the beginning, there were many comments suggesting that I was getting opportunities purely because of my family connections. Even my uncle faced criticism because of me. In fact, he was very careful not to favour me, precisely because he did not want to reinforce those perceptions. So while my background gave me visibility, I had to prove myself independently. Every opportunity I received had to be earned.
Q: Looking back at your modelling journey, how do you feel about what you have achieved so far?
A: I feel content and grateful. I believe I have done quite a lot, and I am happy with what I have achieved. At the same time, I strongly feel that I still have so much more to offer. There are many things I want to explore and be involved in. In fact, I feel like I am only now opening up to new opportunities. It is interesting because I feel more confident now than I did earlier in my life. I believe everything happens at the right time, and for me, this feels like the right phase to expand further.
Q: You mentioned confidence. Do you think age plays a role in how you approach your career now?
A: Not at all. I truly believe that age is just a number. It should never limit what you want to do. In fact, I feel that now is my time. Earlier, I may not have been as confident or ready, but today I feel empowered to pursue everything I have always wanted. There is a certain clarity and courage that comes with experience, and I think that makes all the difference.
Q: Motherhood seems to have had a significant impact on you. How has it changed you?
A: Motherhood has changed me completely, in the best possible way. It has made me calmer, more positive, and more grounded. I also feel that I became a mother at the right time. If I had done it earlier, I do not think I would have been able to handle the responsibilities as well as I do now. When I was younger, I was more adventurous and focused on exploring life. Now I am more settled, and I can fully embrace the challenges and joys of motherhood. My son has truly been the biggest blessing in my life.
Q: Let’s talk about your Miss Sri Lanka journey. What was that experience like?
A: It was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I was inspired to participate after watching Aishwarya Rai being crowned Miss World. That moment stayed with me. In 2006, I was selected to represent Sri Lanka at the Miss World pageant in Poland. I was only 18 at the time, and it was my first major international experience. I had to travel alone, manage everything independently, and even deal with challenges like losing my luggage for nearly 48 hours. Those experiences shaped me. They made me more independent, more mature, and more aware of the world. Meeting contestants from over 100 countries exposed me to different cultures and perspectives. When I returned, I was not the same person who had left.
Q: Are you still in touch with your fellow contestants from that time?
A: Yes, especially with those from the Asian region. We were grouped by continents, so we spent a lot of time together. Today, thanks to social media, it is much easier to stay connected. Many of us are now married and have children, and we often share memories from those days. It is always heartwarming to look back.
Q: How do you see the evolution of international pageants from 2006 to now?
A: It is a bit of a mixed feeling. In some ways, pageants have improved as they are more inclusive and modern. However, I also feel that the prestige and seriousness associated with them have reduced. Earlier, representing your country at a pageant was seen as a major honour, and there was a certain standard and class attached to it. Today, with so many pageants available, that exclusivity has diminished. That said, I believe contestants today still work very hard, and individuals like Anudi have done Sri Lanka proud.
Q: If you were to compete again, would you do things differently?
A: Definitely. With the experience and maturity I have now, I would approach everything differently, from preparation to presentation. However, one thing I would never change is the friendships and memories I made. Those were truly invaluable.
Q: You are now mentoring young talent. What inspired you to start teaching?
A: It took time because I wanted to feel ready. Initially, I planned to conduct a weekend masterclass. But as I started developing the content, I realised there was too much to cover. That is when I decided to create an eight-week workshop instead. I wanted to ensure that every student gains something meaningful from the experience. I also feel that this is the right time for me to give back. Over the years, I have learned so much, and I believe it is important to share that knowledge.
Q: What makes your training approach unique?
A: I do not believe in competition between trainers. There is space for everyone in this industry. Each trainer brings their own experiences and perspectives. For me, the focus is on helping students discover their individuality. I always tell them not to imitate others. Your walk, your expressions, and your presence have to come from within. At the same time, passion is key. If someone enters this industry for the wrong reasons, it will not sustain. You need to genuinely love what you do.
Q: How different is the modelling industry today compared to when you started?
A: It is very different. When we started, there were very few formal training opportunities. We learned from each other. There was a strong sense of camaraderie. We supported one another, shared experiences, and worked closely together. Today, while there are more opportunities and structured training, I feel that sense of unity is not as strong. There is more competition and less collaboration.
Q: You are also involved in presenting and emceeing. How did that come about?
A: It is something I always wanted to try. I remember telling Rozanne about it, and she immediately supported me. She introduced me to Kumar, and that is how I got my first opportunity. I do not have stage fright, so it came naturally to me. I enjoy being on stage and engaging with people. The only challenge is that I love to talk, so I have to be careful not to say too much.
Q: You have received offers in films as well. Why did you not pursue acting?
A: I did receive offers, especially during my time in India. However, I did not feel ready. I was alone, unfamiliar with the language, and unsure about the environment. Even now, I do not feel a strong inclination towards acting. It is not something I see myself pursuing at this stage.
Q: How does your husband support your career as a public figure?
A: He is incredibly supportive and very easygoing. When he met me, I was already in this industry, so he understands what it involves. He has always been my biggest supporter, encouraging me and standing by me through everything.
Q: You have mentored the current Miss Sri Lanka, Prathibha. What are your thoughts on her journey?
A: I am very proud of her. From the beginning, I told her to believe in herself and see herself as the winner. She worked extremely hard and remained committed despite challenges. There were moments when she felt discouraged, but she stayed strong. Her dedication paid off, and I truly believe she will continue to do well.
Q: What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to enter modelling or pageantry?
A: Enter the industry for the right reasons. Do it because you are passionate about it, not because of external influences or expectations. Be prepared for both the positives and the challenges. It is a rewarding industry, but it also requires discipline, resilience, and integrity. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. Authenticity is what sets you apart.
Q: Finally, how would you describe your journey so far?
A: I am extremely grateful. I have had the opportunity to meet amazing people, experience incredible moments, and grow both personally and professionally. There have been challenges, of course, but overall, it has been a wonderful journey. I am thankful to my family, especially my husband and son, for their constant support. I am also excited for what lies ahead. I feel like there is still so much more to come.
--------------------------
Dannielle Kerkoven’s story is one of quiet strength, evolution, and authenticity. From a young girl stepping onto the ramp by chance to a woman confidently shaping the next generation, her journey reflects not just success, but purpose. As she continues to explore new paths, one thing remains clear. Her story is far from over.
