Szandra Akkach is not your typical influencer. With an impressive background in modeling for other brands while building her own fashion empire, Szandra is shattering stereotypes and proving that influencers can be more than just a pretty face. After showcasing her Haute Couture fashion line, Larimar by Szandra, at various high profile events such as Runway Dubai and The Royal Gala in the UAE, she recently pursued an entirely different challenge and completed her Master’s Degree in Law from the University of Law in London. Her journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of diverse passions, with each chapter of her life adding a new dimension to her inspiring story.
Runway Success: A Launchpad to Greater Heights
Szandra’s career representing brands began with a significant milestone – winning a modeling contest that positioned her as the brand ambassador and face of Crest toothpaste across the Arabian Peninsula. This achievement placed her on the prestigious Ahlan Hot 100 list and propelled her into the spotlight with a modeling contract with a top UAE-based talent agency, opening doors to numerous opportunities in the fashion industry. In her teenage years she had already completed the well-renowned Life Model program. This provided her with a professional portfolio and valuable runway experience, after which she walked the runway for brands across the UAE, Kuwait and even Switzerland.
Over the years, she has taken on various roles, from modeling and hostessing to product promotions and exhibitions, building a versatile career that extended beyond traditional modeling. Her experience was founded on client-facing roles and expanded into guest relations and hospitality management, in which she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Switzerland. Szandra went on to represent her home country at the Mrs. Universe 2023 competition as Mrs. Hungary 2023, and also placed as a semi-finalist in Miss Influencer UAE 2023. Yet, for Szandra, modeling was always about more than just being in front of the camera. It was about connecting with people and using her platform to inspire a global audience through her growing online presence.
A Fashion Designer at Heart: Building the Larimar by Szandra Brand
Apart from modeling, Szandra’s creative spirit found an outlet in fashion design. She launched her own fashion brand, Larimar by Szandra, which reflects her artistic vision and commitment to quality. Through Larimar by Szandra, she has been able to blend her love for fashion with her entrepreneurial drive, creating a brand that is not only stylish but also meaningful, representing her artistic vision and showcasing her talents as a fashion designer.
Alongside her degree, Szandra completed various programs through the London College of Fashion and the French fashion school Esmod, including certifications in luxury brand management, fashion design, fashion styling and building a fashion label. Her experiences in the fashion world have helped shape her approach to business. She enjoys networking and working with people from different cultures and backgrounds, which is evident in the diverse and inclusive nature of her brand. “As an entrepreneur, I enjoy networking and working with people from various backgrounds,” she says, underscoring the importance of maintaining a global perspective in her career. Growing up in front of the camera, she equally enjoys bringing to life her artistic vision from behind the scenes and working backstage at runway shows to further launch her personal brand into the limelight.
Breaking Stereotypes: Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Law
In addition to her vast experience in fashion and brand representation, Szandra recently completed her Master of Arts in Law for England and Wales. For her, this accomplishment was about more than just obtaining a degree—it was a statement against the common stereotypes associated with influencers. “It’s important to highlight the value of intellect and education,” she explains. Szandra’s dedication to academic excellence proves that one can excel in multiple fields without compromising on ambition or intellect.
Her law studies are just one of the many ways Szandra continues to challenge herself and expand her horizons. She believes that being an influencer comes with the responsibility to act as a role model for the younger generation and to break molds and demonstrate that success can be multidimensional.
The Influence of Family: Drawing Inspiration from Her Brothers
Szandra’s resilience and determination are deeply rooted in the values instilled by her family. She credits her parents for always supporting her dreams and goals, and her brothers, both of whom she has tragically lost, for shaping her approach to life. Her older brother, who was a film director, inspired her to pursue her passions confidently, emphasizing the significance of empathy and artistic creativity. Her younger brother, who worked in private wealth management,encouraged her to prove herself in challenging environments and excel at her academic success. She has always lived a blend of both worlds; thriving in her artistic passions while excelling academically with a track record of certifications from Harvard, Oxford and the London School of Economics.
Since losing both her brothers, Szandra continues to draw strength from their memory. “They are my angels who shaped the person I am today,” she says. Their influence has been a driving force behind her relentless pursuit of success and the diverse goals she sets for herself.
Viewing Setbacks as Stepping Stones: Szandra’s Mindset for Success
For Szandra, failure is not an endpoint; it’s a learning opportunity. She sees every setback as “one stepping stone closer to success.” This mindset has helped her navigate the highs and lows of a career in fashion, business, and academia. When faced with rejection, such as not being selected for a casting, she remains optimistic, knowing that “sometimes your specific look is not what the brand requires, and that’s okay.” She stays true to her strong values and believes that everything in life, whether good or bad, happens for a reason. Her resilience in the face of challenges exemplifies a mindset focused on growth and continuous improvement.
This positive outlook extends to her interactions with others. Szandra believes in the power of maintaining humble and genuine connections, stating that “nobody wants to work with someone arrogant and entitled.” She emphasizes the importance of being a pleasure to work with and remaining grounded no matter the milestones reached.
Aiming to Inspire: Leaving a Lasting Impact
As Szandra builds her personal brand, she is also focused on leaving a legacy that goes beyond her accomplishments. She aspires to be a positive role model for young girls, encouraging them to pursue their dreams without fear. Her diverse career path is proof that one can excel in multiple areas – whether it’s on the runway and the world of arts and creativity, in the competitive scene of business, or in the field of law where one can aspire to make an impact on the world.
Success, for Szandra, has evolved to mean more than just professional achievements. It’s about being truly happy, surrounded by supportive people, and living a life filled with passion and purpose. “Success now is being surrounded by people I love and those who truly support my journey,” she shares. This holistic view of success is what keeps her motivated as she continues to explore new avenues and set ambitious goals.
Szandra Akkach: Redefining What It Means to Be an Influencer
Szandra Akkach is rewriting the narrative of what it means to be an influencer. With a career that spans modeling, fashion design, and law, she is proving that influencers can be intelligent, accomplished, and multi-dimensional. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and a refusal to be boxed in or limited by expectations. Whether she’s on the runway, in a boardroom, or in a courtroom, Szandra remains committed to being a positive force and an inspiration to others.
As she continues to grow her personal brands and pursue her legal ambitions, Szandra’s journey serves as a reminder that there are no limits to what one can achieve with a strong support system, passion, and perseverance.
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