Today we’d like to introduce you to Sahara Lottersberger
Hi Sahara, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Since childhood, I’ve been passionate about performing arts, dance, and music. At 8 years old, I started theater, and later pursued a degree at the University of Theater in my home country. I’m both an actress and a professional flight attendant, but my professional story truly began at 21, when I launched my own Modeling Academy. With the invaluable support of my mother and the Ivana Sánchez Modeling franchise—where I had graduated at 17 as a professional model—I became the Academy’s owner and director.
For two amazing years, my academy became a family, where students not only grew as models but also as individuals. Many of them are now thriving in acting, modeling, fitness, or have launched their own businesses. I’m incredibly proud of their successes and the impact I had on their lives.
However, due to political instability in Bolivia, I had to make the difficult decision to close my academy and start a new chapter in the U.S. While it was heartbreaking, my mother’s words stayed with me: “No one is a prophet in their own land.” This led me to pursue my purpose in a new place.
Now, I’m excited to be working on a new project with my dear friend and colleague, Vine Aduara. Together, we launched the “VSL Fashion Show” (Vine, Sense N Style, Sahara Lottersberger), which held its first event in Miami in June. The night was a huge success, with a red-carpet gala featuring talented designers, models, photographers, and an incredible backstage team.
What made this experience even more challenging was that I was eight months pregnant at the time. Despite the nerves, pressure, and excitement, everything went perfectly, and just weeks later, I welcomed my beautiful daughter, Eleanor MacDonald, into the world. She is my greatest inspiration, and now, I’m more motivated than ever. Our next VSL Fashion Show is set for Washington, D.C., and I can’t wait for what’s to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road. The political crisis in Bolivia was one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced. The civil unrest, corruption, and economic instability forced me to close my Modeling Academy, something I had worked so hard to build. Watching my dreams slip away due to circumstances beyond my control was devastating, but it also taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability.
Relocating to the U.S. came with its own set of challenges. I had to navigate not only a new culture and language but also a completely different business environment. Starting from zero, with no network or reputation here, meant I had to prove myself all over again. Establishing connections and understanding the nuances of a new system has been difficult, but it has also pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined.
Additionally, becoming a mother while pursuing my career added a personal challenge. Balancing pregnancy, and later motherhood, with my professional aspirations required a great deal of emotional and physical strength. There were moments of doubt, but I kept pushing forward, motivated by the belief that these challenges would ultimately make me stronger.
The journey hasn’t been easy, but every struggle has reinforced my determination to succeed. Starting fresh in a new country has given me the chance to rebuild and approach my goals with a renewed sense of purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
It’s always challenging for me to fit myself into one category because I’ve always been multifaceted. From being an actress, writing poetry, singing, and dancing, to being an athlete and studying the mechanics of an aircraft, my interests are diverse. Whenever someone asks what I do, I simply say, “I’m an artist,” because that word encompasses everything I am. I sing, I dance, I’m an acrobat, I love music, and I direct.
I take immense pride in having worked on one of the most popular television shows in my country. It was an incredible experience that allowed me to showcase my talents on a larger platform. I’m also extremely proud of having directed my own business as the owner and instructor of a modeling academy. I love teaching, especially runway, because it allows me to inspire and guide others to believe in themselves and grow their confidence.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend all these different passions into my work. Whether it’s through teaching, performing, or leading projects, I bring the same energy and dedication to everything I do. My diverse experiences and my deep love for the arts allow me to connect with people in unique ways, and that’s what I’m most proud of.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was a ball of energy—full of curiosity and creativity. I’ve always had a hyperactive personality, and my parents nurtured that in the best ways possible. My mom introduced me to the world of classic 80s rock, which still remains my favorite genre today. I grew up listening to bands like Queen, Aerosmith, and AC/DC. My dad, on the other hand, brought a different musical influence into my life with jazz, blues, and country. He’s a singer-songwriter and has written over 30 incredible songs, and it’s one of my dreams to someday share his music with the world.
Theater was where I found an outlet for all that energy. I started at just 8 years old, and it helped me channel my creativity and my sometimes overwhelming enthusiasm. It also sparked my love for literature, especially Shakespeare. I became an avid reader of his works, drawn to the depth of emotion and human experience in his writing. To this day, I still find inspiration in his plays.
Dancing, however, is the language of the soul for me. I’ve always seen it as a way to express emotions and stories without words. I’ve explored many dance styles, and the most recent passion I picked up was tango. There’s something about the intensity and grace of the tango that speaks to me. Dance has been a constant companion throughout my life, helping me stay grounded and connected to my inner self.
In short, I was a mix of bold energy, creativity, and passion. Whether it was through music, theater, literature, or dance, I found ways to explore the world around me with curiosity and joy. Those early influences still shape who I am today.
Pricing:
- At the moment, I’m focused on building my brand and continuing my work in the fashion and arts industries. While I am not currently offering public pricing for services, I am open to collaborations, personalized runway coaching, and consulting for those interested in pursuing their own path in the modeling and arts industry. For those seeking information on specific services or partnerships, I encourage them to reach out directly for customized quotes based on their individual needs and project goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/vslfashionshow
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahara_lottersberger and https://www.instagram.com/sahara_academiademodelaje/profilecard/
Image Credits
Sahara Lottersberger Modeling Academy.
The Narigón Show TV Program.
Top Models of the VSL Fashion Show, Sahara Lottersberger and Eleanor MacDonald, Mother and Daughter.
Miss silhouette of Miss Santa Cruz 2020
New York Fashion Week 2024
