Photo by Donald Chiu
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Gabriel Leung, or Shu Q, is a name that resonates with versatility and adaptability. His journey through high-profile modeling campaigns, major film productions, and potential ventures into singing exemplifies a modern-day Renaissance man. Leveraging his unique cultural background and relentless drive, Shu Q has crafted a career that spans multiple disciplines, each reinforcing his dynamic presence in the world of entertainment.
Effortlessly transitioning between various realms of the entertainment industry, Shu Q embodies the essence of being multifaceted. Initially gaining prominence through his stunning modeling work with major fashion brands, he consistently brought a level of professionalism and dedication that left a lasting impact.
This story delves into the myriad aspects of Shu Q’s career, exploring the skills and dedication that have enabled his success across these varied fields. More than just a tale of professional achievements, it is an exploration of the personal journeys and experiences that have shaped Shu Q into the versatile talent he is known for today.
Cultural roots and early aspirations
Growing up in the vibrant cities of Hong Kong and Shanghai deeply influenced Shu Q’s aspirations in the entertainment and fashion industries. Immersed in rich visual and performing arts from a young age, he experienced a unique blend of cultural influences. “Hong Kong is a fascinating crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures – I grew up hearing my grandmother listen to Peking Opera on the radio, while also going to concert halls for orchestral performances of Beethoven,” he recalls. This exposure to diverse artistic expressions sparked his ambition to become a Chinese performer who could cross cultural boundaries.
Shanghai’s dynamic environment further fueled his dreams. “Every corner was a bright billboard of a commercial or campaign,” Shu Q remembers. The sight of actors and models prominently displayed on billboards inspired him to pursue a career in modeling and entertainment on an international stage.
A journey across continents
The journey from Asia to Canada, and ultimately to New York City, profoundly shaped Shu Q’s career and artistic expression. It was in Canada that he truly embraced his cultural identity. “Canadian clients and artists celebrated unadulterated artistic and cultural roots,” he explains. This environment allowed him to be recognized and appreciated for his authentic self without needing to justify the fusion of international influences he embodied.
This newfound sense of artistic freedom empowered Shu Q to take his talents to New York City. “It was with this liberated sense of artistic self that allowed me to take my talents to New York City and continue sharing my unique perspective with the world,” he shares. In New York, he continued to showcase his unique blend of eastern and western artistic influences, further establishing himself as a versatile and authentic talent in the global entertainment and fashion industries.
Balancing modeling and acting
Balancing the demands of modeling and acting, Shu Q prepares for each with a nuanced understanding of their similarities and differences. He notes that both fields require a keen awareness of how one’s body and facial expressions translate on camera. “Modeling and acting are both part of the visual medium. The hired talent in both industries have to exercise a high level of proprioception, as well as physical and situational awareness,” he explains. This shared need for acute self-awareness and the ability to listen and collaborate with the broader production team underscores the interconnectedness of these art forms.
However, Shu Q also highlights the distinct approaches each profession demands. In modeling, “It is my job to stay fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” he says, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for castings and photoshoots. In contrast, acting requires a deeper focus on emotional readiness and mental sharpness. “Staying mentally sharp allows for the actor to effectively embody a character and react authentically to the dynamics of the scene,” he elaborates, illustrating the necessity of emotional preparation in delivering compelling performances. This dual approach enables Shu Q to excel in both fields, leveraging his versatility and dedication to meet the unique challenges of each.
SA voice for Asian talent
Shu Q views the current state of Asian representation in modeling and film with a sense of gratitude and optimism. “I am incredibly thankful to be an Asian model and actor during this pivotal time of change in the entertainment industry,” he reflects, acknowledging the long-standing struggle for recognition and appreciation of Asian cultures. The past decade has seen significant progress, with Asian performers achieving unprecedented success. Shu Q is proud to be a part of this transformative wave, expressing his gratitude for being “a drop in this growing wave.”
Despite the positive trends, Shu Q acknowledges the challenges that come with increased competition among Asian artists. “As I see more demand for Asian models and talent, I have experienced moments of disappointment when I am close to booking a big photoshoot but ultimately lose the opportunity to another Asian model,” he admits. However, he emphasizes the importance of viewing these moments through a supportive lens. “While it is disappointing, I often remind myself that the opportunity is still being given to someone who deserves it just as much as I am,” he notes. Shu Q’s perspective highlights a collective victory for Asian representation, reinforcing the idea that each success contributes to the broader goal of increasing visibility and opportunities for all Asian talents in the industry.
Career defining moments
Reflecting on his career, Shu Q identifies not just the high-profile campaigns with brands like Canada Goose and Samsung, but also the consistent, recurring gigs that truly advanced his career. “The apex of my modeling career was actually my consistency in booking recurring gigs with clients who kept calling me back for e-comm photoshoots,” he reveals. These opportunities required more than just a striking appearance; they demanded a robust work ethic, patience, and strong interpersonal skills.
E-commerce photoshoots, as Shu Q describes, are rigorous and demanding, involving “40+ looks that each require at least 5 angles and 20+ photos.” Maintaining a positive attitude and delivering high-quality results under such conditions showcases his dedication and professionalism.
Building a solid reputation with recurring clients like Abercrombie and Fitch, Walmart, and Target was pivotal. “These are the clients who saw my hard work and knew I would always consistently deliver them high-quality results,” he emphasizes. This consistency and reliability not only solidified his standing in the industry but also underscored the importance of perseverance and adaptability in achieving long-term success.
Advocacy on the public stage
Shu Q takes his role as a public figure seriously, recognizing the unique responsibilities that come with representing the Asian, LGBTQ+, and immigrant communities. “As someone who is at the crossroads of intersectionality, I feel it is important that I use my public platform to speak up on issues that matter to me,” he explains. This sense of duty is reinforced by the feedback he receives from fans who find a sense of belonging and representation through his visibility. “Seeing my face on a billboard or on screen…made them feel like they belonged in their community just a little bit more,” he shares, emphasizing the profound impact of representation.
Shu Q’s aim is to inspire and pave the way for future generations within these communities. By setting precedents and showcasing diverse identities in the entertainment industry, he hopes to encourage young people to pursue their dreams and find success. “I strive to continue to inspire and set precedents for the Asian, LGBTQ+, and immigrant communities…so that younger generations can see themselves on screen or in advertisements and feel that they also belong,” he states. This commitment to advocacy and representation underscores his dedication to using his influence for positive change, ensuring that his public presence contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.
Creative harmony
Expertly balancing his diverse talents in acting, modeling, and possibly singing, Shu Q relies on meticulous time management. “Every evening, I would plan out my next day, from my daily trip to the gym to studying a script for audition,” he shares. This daily planning allows him to efficiently manage his busy schedule while ensuring he stays on top of his various commitments. To prevent burnout, Shu Q strategically incorporates buffer times between his scheduled activities, providing flexibility and reducing stress.
Equally important to his routine is the inclusion of personal time. “I always allocate 30 minutes each day as ‘personal time’,” he explains. This time is dedicated to activities that help him stay centered, such as meditating, listening to music, or reading a novel. “I think it vital to not let my life be swept away by the happenings of my careers,” Shu Q emphasizes, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between professional and personal interests. This practice not only helps him stay grounded but also nurtures his overall well-being, allowing him to bring his best self to each of his creative pursuits.
Goals for continued growth
Looking ahead, Shu Q envisions a future filled with exciting opportunities and continued growth in both acting and modeling. He aspires to feature in more box-office hits, following the success of “Smile” in 2022, and to secure high-profile international campaigns. “I also look forward to booking more international and high-profile campaigns and modeling photoshoots to continue my global exposure,” he shares, underscoring his ambition to expand his influence worldwide.
Shu Q also dreams of landing a recurring role in a TV show, possibly a comedy or sitcom, where he believes there is greater potential for impactful storytelling. “There is often more room for the talent to make an impact with roles that recur over a few episodes,” he explains. Additionally, he harbors aspirations of working with a major luxury brand or featuring in a globally-viewed show on a streaming platform like Netflix or HBO. “If I were to really dream big, I would absolutely love to do a photoshoot or campaign with a major luxury brand; or to feature in a show on a streaming platform that can be viewed globally,” he says. These goals reflect his dedication to broadening his horizons and leaving a lasting mark on the entertainment and fashion industries.
Shu Q’s journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication across multiple facets of the entertainment industry. From the rich cultural roots of Hong Kong and Shanghai to the dynamic landscapes of Canada and New York City, Shu Q has consistently demonstrated an ability to adapt and excel. His work with major brands and his notable role in the film “Smile” highlight his impressive career. Shu Q’s commitment to representation and advocacy for the Asian, LGBTQ+, and immigrant communities further underscores his impact. As he looks to the future, Shu Q aspires to continue expanding his reach through high-profile campaigns, recurring television roles, and international recognition, aiming to inspire and pave the way for future generations of diverse talents.