Sara Baena’s passion for fashion ignited at age 10, inspired by Vogue and her elegant mother. Her journey began with modeling and acting classes at 11, laying the foundation for a career rooted in style, grace, and a deep connection to her Colombian heritage. We sat down with her for an interview and discussed her journey into the world of fashion.
1. Can you tell us about your earliest memories of fashion and how they influenced your decision to pursue a career in modeling?
Sara Baena: My earliest memories of fashion are deeply intertwined with my childhood. I remember being around 10 years old and feeling an intense fascination with style. I would spend hours flipping through Vogue magazines, mesmerized by the elegance and beauty on each page. I dreamed of seeing myself in those magazines one day. That passion only grew stronger when I began studying modeling and acting at 11. Those early experiences were the foundation of my career, helping me realize that fashion was not just a dream, but a path I was destined to follow.
2. Your mother seems to have been a significant influence on your life. Can you share more about how her elegance and grace shaped your own style and aspirations?
Sara Baena: My mother has always been my biggest inspiration. She was a successful businesswoman who carried herself with such grace and sophistication. Watching her prepare for business meetings, choosing her outfits, and applying her makeup with such precision, left a lasting impression on me. Her daily ritual of elegance sparked my interest in fashion and beauty. She taught me that style is not just about clothes but about how you carry yourself in the world. Her influence shaped my aspirations and guided me as I pursued a career in fashion.
3. You’ve spoken about your mission to showcase Colombian talent on a global stage. How important is it for you to represent your culture in the fashion industry?
Sara Baena: Representing Colombian talent on a global stage is incredibly important to me. Colombia has so much to offer in terms of creativity, beauty, and talent. I see my work in the fashion industry not just as a personal achievement but as a platform to showcase the richness of our culture. I want to open doors for other talented individuals from Colombia, to show the world that our country has a unique and valuable contribution to make. It’s about more than just beauty; it’s about pride in where I come from and helping others from my homeland find their place on the world stage.
4. Spirituality plays a central role in your life. How has yoga and meditation influenced your work and personal life?
Sara Baena: Yoga and meditation have been transformative for me, both personally and professionally. In the fast-paced world of fashion, it’s easy to get swept away by the demands and pressures of the industry. But yoga and meditation help me stay grounded and centered. They provide a space where I can connect with myself, reflect, and find balance. This spiritual practice nurtures my body, mind, and spirit, allowing me to approach my work with a sense of peace and purpose. It’s a holistic approach that keeps me aligned with my values and helps me navigate the challenges of my career.
5. How do you maintain a balance between the fast-paced world of fashion and your commitment to personal growth and spirituality?
Sara Baena: Maintaining balance is a constant effort, but it’s something I’m deeply committed to. I make it a priority to carve out time for my spiritual practices, whether it’s through yoga, meditation, or simply spending quiet moments in reflection. This balance is essential for me because it allows me to approach my work with clarity and intention. I’m also very selective about the projects I take on, ensuring they align with my values and don’t compromise my personal growth. It’s about staying true to myself and remembering that success is not just about external achievements but also about inner peace and fulfillment.
6. You’re known for being selective about the projects you undertake. What criteria do you use when deciding whether to take on a new project?
Sara Baena: I’m very meticulous when it comes to choosing the projects I work on. For me, it’s essential that any project I undertake aligns with my life’s purpose and values. I look for projects that resonate with who I am and what I stand for—those that allow me to express my creativity and passion while also contributing something meaningful to the world. I also consider the impact of the project on my personal life and spiritual well-being. If a project feels right on all these levels, then I know it’s something worth pursuing.
7. One of your proudest achievements is your work with RCN. Can you tell us about “Yoga Time by Sara” and what it means to you to have your own segment on a channel you grew up watching?
Sara Baena: Working with RCN is truly a dream come true for me. Growing up, I never imagined that I would one day have my own segment on a channel that was such a big part of my childhood. “Yoga Time by Sara” on the show “Trendiando” is a project that is very close to my heart. It allows me to share my love for yoga with a broader audience, teaching basic postures and discussing their benefits. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’m helping others discover the peace and balance that yoga can bring. This segment is not just about fitness; it’s about sharing a part of my spiritual journey with the world, and that’s something I’m immensely proud of.
8. As you continue to evolve in your career, what are your long-term goals, and how do you plan to make a meaningful impact on the world?
Sara Baena: My long-term goals are centered around continuing to merge my passions for fashion, spirituality, and helping others. I’m currently working on projects that combine these elements, like developing guided readings aimed at providing psychological support. I want to use my platform to make a positive impact on people’s lives, whether it’s through fashion, wellness, or mental health. Ultimately, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams with authenticity and to find balance and purpose in their own lives. Making a meaningful impact is what drives me, and I’m excited about the future and the opportunities it holds.