A decade ago, modelling was not something a woman could bravely stand up for and publicly confess it as a career.
This was due to societal norms and expectations which by then considered certain careers as nothing below their names.
For these reasons and more, most girls would shy away from this noble undertaking and as such, would choose to : "do it under the low profile lane."
Some parents and guardians considered it a waste of time, energy and resources.
However, a couple of years later, this rigid and judgmental mentality has changed and as we speak, the paradigm shift has empowered many girls to venture into this fast growing industry and eke out a living.
Meet Sharon Macharia, the 20-year-old reigning Miss Culture Nakuru County who is making it big in this industy.
During a one-on-one interview on Wednesday with this writer, the ever charming beau reveals that it has not been a walk in the park to reach where she is now.
She confided that it has been through daily struggles, sheer determination and believing in herself.
"I'm a passionate Kenyan model who believes in the power of a woman determined to raise against the odds," she introduced herself.
The second born in a family of three, is a first year student at Utalii College pursuing a higher diploma in Travel and Tourism Operations.
In addition, she is the outgoing Miss Tracom college.
Born and brought up in Nakuru, Ms Macharia said her childhood was like any other girl in the estate, and thus no special experiences that would reveal her hidden talent.
The self-proclaimed cartoon and comedy shows addict, derives her inspiration from Oprah Winfrey, whom she describes as a woman endowed with inner beauty.
"Oprah is one of the greatest women I daily look up to. For the longest time I can remember, I have always admired her struggle as a go-getter and how she has made it in life. In addition, I drive a lot of nuggets of wisdom on modelling from her. She is one of a kind as much as we are quite miles away from each other," said Ms Macharia.
When asked about any projects she is working on, Ms Macharia confided that she has been investing a lot of time in a project that would see girls get the opportunity to use modelling to develop their talents and grow since the industry has grown to another level.
She said it is no longer just a "smile and be pretty" career.
"My focus on the project is also to help these ambitious girls to explore more in the modelling industry and just make the best out of themselves. Girls run this world," said a Ms Macharia who enjoys taking a nature walk, skating and reading magazines.
Her advice to fellow ladies: "Believe that you are beautiful but most importantly, be confident in your skin."
Her parting shot; "It does not matter you stand but where you are heading to."