Luxe life

Risa Aoki on enjoying only the finer things.

- Chise Alcantara

Risa Aoki’s family owns a yacht. We’re on it. We don’t get to do that often. Correct that: we don’t get to do that at all. But Risa was kind enough to let us in on the experience as part of doing our job. And so we find that Risa, seemingly spoiled as she is, is a self-made and very busy woman. She is a model and an entrepreneur running a rare whisky business. She poses and takes business calls with equal ease. She says it’s all about taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. So we’re heeding her advice; we’re taking this chance to get to know her a little better...

What got you into modeling?

I signed up with a leading acting school and upon completion of the program, I got in touch with modeling agencies to attend VTRs. I approached modeling as though it were an acting career because I think models should know how to act in front of the camera apart from just looking good. The good thing about modeling is that I’m in control of my time. I think it’s important that people explore all possible sources of income to be able to maximize your potential as a person.