Maya Simone
www.myspace.com/mayasimone

AutoSportz (AS): How did you get started in the import scene?
Maya: I knew about the import scene in high school but wasn't into it. I went to a NOPI event last year in Budds Creek, MD and had a good time. I decided to submit photos to HIN and next thing I know, I was invited to be part of the M Lounge. I was so new and did not even know how to get 8x10s so I decided to work for Subaru instead and watch how the M Lounge worked from afar.

AS: Did you always want to be a model or did it just happen by chance?
Maya: I had thought about it in high school but did not really pursue it because I thought there was really only one kind of model...thin, 5'8"+, and caucasian.

AS: When was your first car show?
Maya: My first car show was Hot Import Nights Chantilly, VA.

AS: Where are you originally from and where did you grow up?
Maya: I was born in New York, NY and spent half my childhood in Queens and
the rest in Southern California.

AS: What should people know about you?
Maya: I am a goofy dork.

AS: Are you the good or bad girl?
Maya: Depends who you ask and if it's that of the month ;-P

AS: Who has been your biggest influence or role model?
Maya: My biggest influence is my mom. Although she is on the other side of the country and we don't talk all the time due to our schedules, she is always in my thoughts. She is a very passionate, caring, humble and strong woman. She has taught me kindness, humility, and
unconditional love.

AS: Besides modeling, what interests or hobbies do you have?
Maya: I am an adrenaline junky which have attributed to many hospital visits
and stays. Sorry mom for all the stress! I like rockclimbing, mountain biking, surfing, riding SeaDoos, and I am in love with snowboarding. I just enjoy all kinds of sports. I just started mountain biking and it's a great substitute for surfing...since there is no surf here in the Washington, DC area.

AS: What do you like about import cars and why?
Maya: They remind me of Transformers, the cartoon.

AS: What kind of vehicle do you drive?
Maya: 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4-door Prerunner. It just makes sense for me. I can keep sand, dirt, and whatever else in the bed of my truck and not
worry about cleaning it.

AS: Do you have any plans for your ride or have you already finished modding it?
Maya: It needs a wash or two...

AS: If you could afford any car what would it be?
Maya: I love traveling...so instead of a car I'd like a private jet.

AS: Is there anything about your import modeling career that you wished you would have done differently or regret?
Maya: Hmmm...ask me next year.

AS: What advice would you give to young women who are just getting started in import modeling?
Maya: Follow your instincts! Be professional. Have fun!

AS: Do you have anything coming up that you want to tell your fans?
Maya: Check out my official MySpace page: www.myspace.com/mayasimone

AS: Anyone you wish to give thanks to?
Maya: First, thank you AutoSportz for inviting me to be featured on your site. =) I also thank my family, friends, and fans for the continued love and support. Last but not least, I thank the photographers and models I have worked with from on the set to at the shows for their support and advice.