Katrina Machado shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Katrina, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is the most important to me. Intelligence and energy can take you far, but integrity is what sustains real success and meaningful relationships. It’s about staying true to who you are, even when no one is watching, and treating people with respect along the way. For me, integrity is the foundation that allows intelligence and energy to be used in the right way.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a model who’s passionate about using fashion and creative expression as a way to tell stories and connect with people. My work goes beyond just posing for the camera—I focus on bringing emotion, intention, and authenticity to everything I do. What makes my brand unique is my commitment to growth, discipline, and staying true to who I am, both on and off set. I’m constantly evolving, exploring new creative collaborations, and working on projects that challenge me and allow me to expand my presence in the fashion and media space.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
I taught myself the most about work. I’ve always been self-motivated, and a lot of my drive came from moments when others didn’t believe in me. Instead of letting doubt discourage me, I used it as fuel. Those experiences pushed me to work harder, stay disciplined, and prove—first to myself—that I was capable of more. In a way, the lack of belief from others became one of my greatest motivators and shaped my work ethic into what it is today.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me resilience and inner strength in a way success never could. Struggle forces you to confront yourself, adapt, and keep going even when the outcome is uncertain. It builds character, patience, and a deeper appreciation for growth. Success can feel rewarding, but it’s the hard moments that truly shape who you become and give you the strength to handle whatever comes next.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies my industry tells itself is that comparison is necessary for success. In reality, comparison is the thief of joy—it distracts from individuality and creates unnecessary pressure to fit someone else’s timeline, look, or path. The truth is, the most impactful careers are built by embracing what makes you different and staying focused on your own growth, not measuring yourself against others.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I take time for myself, especially at the gym. It’s where I can disconnect from everything else, focus on my body and mind, and reset. That time alone helps me clear my thoughts, regain balance, and feel grounded—it’s my form of peace and self-care.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katrinashaleen.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinashaleen
