Sarah Agostini believes that in everything in life there is a strategy. As a model, having worked with many top designers — Peter Elias, Radical Designs, Viksara swimsuits and Micles to name a few — she knows all too well that modelling is much more than just striking a pretty pose.

"You have to be a good listener and listen to the advice of the photographer. Photos are about angles and the wrong angle can ruin everything. In my shots I always try to cross my legs so that they look more elongated. I also try to relax and keep a comfortable expression so that the emotion is not overdone. The next thing is you have to feel the clothes you are in and not be afraid to be you on camera," the 21-year-old advises. As she eloquently gives her tips for the catwalk or the still photos she adds that she is a very shy person and that modelling has increased her confidence. "This industry breaks you out of your shyness. It gives you a different type of confidence," she says. It seems almost unbelievable that the mother of one just began modelling a mere year ago.

For the recent Tempo TV Networks Tabanca Launch in Trinidad, Agostini was a show stopper gracing the catwalk for the Viksara 2012 collection. "I love swimsuits, in fact I have a swimsuit fetish; I love water!" she declares. In addition to modelling, Agostini also works in various promotions as a brand ambassador. "Promoting brands is just another aspect of modelling for me. Many people look down on it, thinking that the girls who do it probably are intellectually limited and they have nothing better to do but the truth is you can make an honest salary and the hours are very convenient when you are studying!" says the ex-student of Providence Girls High School.

Speaking of studying, there is another side to Agostini that many people don't know — she is an aspiring dentist. "Growing up I wanted to become a doctor but I always had a phobia for blood! But when I began working at a dental clinic and while carrying out my duties and assisting in dental surgeries I overcame my phobia. My dream however has now changed from medicine to dentistry, a path which I am embarking on right now."

On the topic of careers and uncertainty in choices, the now resident of St Augustine (she has lived in almost every part of Trinidad) argues that young people are sometimes pressured into choosing a career instantly after graduating from school when they should really be encouraged to do introspection, take their time and choose the field which they think is best for them.

I wanted to become so many things when I was a teenager. I even decided to become a chef but I thought long and hard and I chose dentistry," claims the determined dentist-to-be. Her motivation to succeed comes from her desire to create the best life for her son, "My son is the most beautiful thing in my life. He propels me to work hard so that I can provide the best life for him. Many people were sceptical when I had him at a young age but I never regretted having him, he is my treasure, my joy and I intend to be the best mother even at my 'young age'."

For the August holidays she hopes to make the most of the beach and continue her daily routine of work and study. Wherever her strategic path leads her only time will tell but if one thing is for sure, her drive and dedication will ensure imminent success.