About
Shanina Shaik is an Australian fashion model whose striking green eyes, caramel complexion, and down-to-earth charm have taken her from suburban Melbourne to the runways of Paris, New York, and Milan. Born on February 11, 1991, she burst onto the international scene in 2011 when she walked in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show—a career-making debut that instantly placed her beside industry legends. Since then, she has fronted campaigns for brands such as Chanel Beauty, Bebe, Net-a-Porter, and Kérastase, while gracing the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle. Although she’s often photographed in glamorous settings, Shanina openly celebrates her multicultural roots (Pakistani, Saudi, Lithuanian, and Australian) and credits that heritage for her adaptive spirit. Away from flashing cameras, she champions mental-health awareness and animal-welfare causes, using her platform to encourage kindness and resilience.
Before Fame
Growing up in the working-class suburb of Broadmeadows, Shanina was a shy child whose height made her stand out in primary school. Her mother, Kim, and father, Hanif, supported her early interest in fashion by signing her with a local children’s agency when she was eight. A brief career pause followed as she focused on studies at Werribee Secondary College, where she excelled academically and dreamed of becoming a lawyer. Everything changed at age 15 when she auditioned for the national reality show Make Me a Supermodel. Finishing as runner-up gave her a confidence boost and a network of industry contacts. Soon afterward, the teenager moved to New York City—alone, with two suitcases and a determination to succeed—to sign with Next Model Management. Long hours in casting lines and the challenge of adapting to a new country tested her resolve, yet she booked catalog work for Macy’s and Target before landing her breakthrough slot with Victoria’s Secret at just 20.
Trivia
- Runway ritual: Shanina listens to upbeat R&B tracks backstage to calm nerves and boost energy before stepping onto the catwalk.
- Fitness philosophy: She swears by Pilates, boxing sessions, and balanced meals rather than extreme diets, often sharing smoothie recipes on social media.
- Acting cameo: In 2017 she appeared briefly in the film The Mummy starring Tom Cruise, sparking interest in future acting projects.
- Travel tally: By her late twenties she had stamped her passport in more than 40 countries, yet insists that Melbourne coffee still reigns supreme.
- Philanthropy: She partnered with the Australian mental-health group ReachOut to promote digital resources for teenagers facing anxiety and depression.
- Style hallmark: Oversized blazers paired with sneakers are her go-to off-duty look—a nod to her Aussie love of comfort fused with New York edge.
Family Life
Shanina’s background is a rich blend of cultures. Her father, born in Singapore to a Pakistani-Saudi family, introduced her to South Asian traditions, while her Lithuanian-Australian mother nurtured a love for European cuisine. The model describes family gatherings as “a fusion feast” of biryani, pierogi, and pavlova. In 2015 she married DJ Ruckus (Greg Andrews) on the island of Eleuthera after a beachside proposal; high-profile guests included model friends Jasmine Tookes and Hannah Ferguson. Their union ended amicably in 2019, with both prioritizing personal growth.
Love blossomed again when Shanina began dating advertising executive Matthew Adesuyan. The couple welcomed a son, Zai, on September 16, 2022. Motherhood, she says, has re-shaped her priorities: late-night fashion events now share space with bedtime stories, and she often posts candid reflections on balancing career goals with parenting joys. Though work frequently carries her abroad, she maintains strong ties to her Melbourne relatives, visiting during holidays so her son can bond with grandparents and cousins.
Associated With
Throughout her career, Shanina has shared runways and photo shoots with a constellation of fashion icons. She opened for Jason Wu alongside Karlie Kloss, posed for photographer Mario Testino, and appeared in Victoria’s Secret segments flanked by Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel. Her friendship circle includes fellow Australian models Miranda Kerr and Abbey Lee Kershaw, who inspired her during early New York days. In 2020 she joined model Ashley Graham in a digital panel discussing body positivity and industry inclusivity, reinforcing her commitment to progressive change. Agencies Elite Model Management and The Society keep her bookings diverse, from Fendi couture in Rome to Beautycon panels in Los Angeles. With every collaboration, Shanina Shaik continues to prove that a grounded attitude—and a warm smile—can turn a tall girl from Broadmeadows into an international fashion force.
