From small town to big city lights, model Sergio Perdomo’s journey into the world of modeling steadily rises ever higher
Meet Sergio Perdomo, the Colombian sensation making waves in the fashion industry. With a physique that turns heads and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, he has become the face of major brands such as Dsquared2, Hugo Boss and Emporio Armani. As his presence graces the pages of DAMAN, he opens up about his life’s journey…
DAMAN: Great to have you with us, Sergio. Your rise in the fashion world has been remarkable. Could you share your journey and what inspired you to pursue this career?
Sergio Perdomo: My journey into modeling started as a way to make some money, but it transformed into something serious when I made the move from my small town to the capital of my own country, Colombia. What really inspired me was the people who started to believe in me, seeing not only a random boy from a little town but a real professional.
I LEARNED TO STAY FAR FROM THE INDUSTRY’S TOXICITY, REMEMBER WHERE I COME FROM AND NEVER FORGET MY PARENTS’ LESSONS
DA: Coming from Colombia, how do you think your cultural heritage or experiences have influenced your modeling approach?
SP: Coming from Colombia, where nature is everything, I learned to appreciate life’s simplicity and appreciate the little things around me. My family has always been very religious. I learned a lot from listening not just to their prayers but also from their speeches about gratitude. They have always taught me to value the little things, which has helped me greatly in my job. The fashion world can be tough and not always fair, but I learned to stay far from the industry’s toxicity, remember where I come from and never forget my parents’ lessons.
DA: Your portfolio boasts prestigious editorials and major campaigns. If you could pick one that meant the most to you, which would it be?
SP: One of the most significant editorials I’ve had the privilege of working on was with Matthew Brookes—an influential figure in the fashion industry—for Man About Town magazine. The location was in Hydra, Greece, with stunning landscapes and an environment that made me feel truly comfortable. This job helped me discover another part of myself, thanks to the photographer who pushed me and gave me the confidence to believe in what I was doing. It was not my first time working with the magazine, but it was definitely the most impactful.
DA: Over the years, the modeling world has seen significant changes. What are your thoughts on the way the industry has evolved so far, particularly in today’s increasingly diverse environment?
SP: The modeling industry has changed a lot as the world is moving quickly. Beauty today isn’t what it was 20 years ago, when the standard type was tall, skinny, with a perfectly proportioned face. Now, there’s more diversity, including different body types and a broader definition of beauty that’s become subjective. I agree with the inclusivity of new kinds of beauty and particular features that distinguish the person.
DA: Modeling can be competitive. How did you navigate the challenges you have had to face?
SP: I find modeling really competitive. There are a lot of people dreaming about the same things, having the same goals. You really have to take every opportunity to stand out. I can describe myself as lucky in this field because I never had to face problems with other models. But the most impactful challenge that I had to face was with myself. I always try to eat healthy, have discipline and consistency in my workouts, and be present at every opportunity. I start every new year with a new me, with new people and cities.
DA: Collaboration is crucial in the modeling industry. What qualities do you believe contribute to a successful collaboration between models, designers and photographers?
SP: It’s simply about being yourself without any pretense. It might sound straightforward, but I’ve found that being genuine has always had a positive impact on my work. It allows people to see my true identity and they can feel the innocence in what I’m doing. It’s all about energies: giving back the same positive energies you receive is crucial.
DA: Are there any photographers or brands you would love to work with?
SP: I would love to work with James Brodribb, Richard Phibbs from Ralph Lauren and Mikael Jansson. Other than that, working for Versace is a big dream of mine.
DA: What is your favorite moment when working on a shoot?
SP: My favorite moment is when I have to be myself, doing little crazy things for a cool shoot.
DA: We also learned that you enjoy being outdoors and hiking. Does that influence your personal and professional outlook?
SP: Well, it keeps me fit, but being outdoors also gives me good energy. I enjoy being under the sun and work out outdoors in my free time; that’s why I look tanned.
DA: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is clearly important to you. Besides hiking, can you share some key habits to help you meet your fitness goals?
SP: Being healthy is an essential aspect of who I am. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about alimentation, spirituality and how the mind and the body are connected. While my alimentation can seem extreme, incorporating daily fasting has given me a lot of discipline, allows me to exercise control over my mind and provides me with energy for the day.
What we eat shapes who we are. I used to struggle with food, especially having addictions to chocolate and sugar. However, studying others who went through similar experiences changed a lot for me. Eggs are a staple in my diet because they provide the essential energy to get through the day. I love having a healthy lifestyle; I try to work out outdoors every day to soak up the sun and be in nature. My exercise routine includes dynamic exercises and cardio, ensuring I consistently train my heart.
DA: How do you cultivate your mental well-being?
SP: I do a lot of meditation, connecting with myself and being in nature. Expressing gratitude for even the smallest things and thanking God for what happens in my life makes me feel peaceful and grateful.
DA: You have quite an online following, especially on Instagram and TikTok. How do you engage with your thousands of followers while staying true to yourself?
SP: I share what I like to do and what I like to eat. So, while my followers enjoy this content, they can also learn something from me.
IF YOU HAVE A DREAM, GO FOR IT NO MATTER WHAT PEOPLE SAY AND BE DISCIPLINED IN PURSUING WHAT YOU WANT
DA: What advice would you give aspiring models looking to break into the industry?
SP: Believing in themselves is the key to basically everything. If you have a dream, go for it no matter what people say and be disciplined in pursuing what you want.
PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING BY ALDRIN DEL CARMEN
Model Sergio Perdomo/ Two Management NY