Chitra Soerdjbalie Interview on Turning Visibility Into Authentic Leadership
Chitra Soerdjbalie is an international model, entrepreneur, and founder of Curated Moments by Chitra. In this exclusive interview, she shares how confidence, visibility, and authentic leadership have shaped her journey from her first international runway to building two purpose-driven brands. She also explores why representation matters, how meaningful experiences create lasting impact, and why women should never wait for permission to take up space.
Chitra Soerdjbalie, Business Owner
You’ve built a career across modelling and entrepreneurship; what first made you realize that visibility could become a powerful tool for leadership?
For a long time, I thought visibility was simply about being seen. Over the years, I realised it is much more than that. When people see someone stepping outside of expectations, they often feel encouraged to do the same. Through modelling and entrepreneurship, I discovered that showing up authentically can inspire confidence in others. To me, leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room; it's about creating space where others feel empowered to step forward too.
After walking your first international runway at Milan Fashion Week in 2022, what changed most in how you viewed yourself and your potential?
Walking my first international runway was a defining moment. It wasn't just about fashion; it was proof that opportunities can become reality when you are willing to pursue them. It reminded me that growth begins outside your comfort zone. That experience gave me the confidence to dream bigger, trust my abilities, and stop placing limits on what I thought was possible.
As a curvy model, what conversations about representation do you think the fashion industry still needs to have?
We've made progress, but representation should become the standard rather than the exception. Diversity is about more than body size; it's about reflecting real people with different backgrounds, cultures, ages, and stories. Everyone deserves to feel seen. Fashion has the power to influence confidence, and with that comes the responsibility to show that beauty exists in many forms.
What have brands gained when they move beyond traditional ideas of beauty and embrace more authentic representation?
Authenticity builds trust. Consumers connect with brands that reflect the world they live in, rather than an unrealistic ideal. When people genuinely see themselves represented, they feel included and valued. That creates stronger relationships, greater loyalty, and ultimately a more meaningful impact than simply following trends.
You often connect fashion and event planning through storytelling; what makes a memorable experience regardless of the industry?
People rarely remember every detail, but they always remember how something made them feel. Whether it's a fashion campaign, a runway show, or a carefully curated event, the most memorable experiences create an emotional connection. Both industries are about bringing a vision to life, paying attention to the smallest details, and creating moments that leave a lasting impression.
What is one practical way someone can build confidence when they feel hesitant about being seen or heard?
Start before you feel completely ready. Confidence isn't something that appears overnight; it's something you build through action. Every small step, speaking up in a meeting, sharing your work, or saying yes to an opportunity, helps strengthen your confidence. Waiting until you feel fearless often means waiting forever.
For entrepreneurs building a personal brand, what helps create genuine connections rather than simply attracting attention?
Authenticity. People connect with people, not perfection. Sharing your journey, your lessons, and even your challenges creates trust because it shows you're real. A personal brand shouldn't be about creating an image that impresses everyone; it should reflect your values and allow the right people to connect with you for who you truly are.
You often speak about creating opportunities instead of waiting for them; how has that mindset shaped your own journey?
Many of the opportunities I've had didn't simply appear, they started because I took the initiative. I reached out, introduced myself, applied, travelled, and said yes to experiences that felt both exciting and intimidating. I've learned that growth often begins with one courageous decision. If I had waited for the perfect moment, many of the milestones I'm proud of today would never have happened.
What is one message you hope women carry with them when they decide to step into greater visibility and leadership?
Don't wait until you feel perfect before taking your place. Your voice, your story, and your perspective already have value. Leadership isn't about fitting into someone else's definition of success; it's about leading with authenticity, lifting others as you grow, and having the courage to be visible exactly as you are.
Sometimes the simple act of showing up is enough to inspire someone else to do the same.
Read more from Chitra Soerdjbalie
