Meet the model, influencer and self-proclaimed enigma bringing the passion, presence and versatility. Behold SHANTI GRIFFIN…
Welcome to MAXIM, Shanti, and congrats on your debut cover. How do you feel?
Super flattered and honestly, kind of hyped. It’s a wild moment but came about so naturally. This photo shoot is so me – it’s shot in my hometown; I’m in clothes I actually wear and in a place I adore. This felt authentic and powerful. There’s something fun and sexy about showing up as yourself.
When do you feel sexy?
When I’m dressed like a dream, vibing out to my favourite song and fully in my zone. It’s that unapologetic, IDGAF energy. Confidence hits different when you’re in your own lane.
What is your best asset?
Physically, my eyes. Spiritually, my heart. Mentally, my resilience. I don’t fold – I turn pressure into diamonds.
Give us a little more background about yourself and life story so far.
I grew up on the Gold Coast, raised between the beach and mountains. I’ve been through a lot and come out the other side with vision, fire and purpose. Also, becoming a mother shifted everything – she made me sharper, softer and more driven all at once. Everything I do now is legacy building for her and for the version of me that never gave up.
What would people be most surprised to know about you?
I’m a full-blown rock nerd; I could spend hours fossicking for crystals. I also write songs and poetry when no-one’s looking. I’m a bit of a mystic in a glam girl’s body.
What’s something about your identity that you’re proud of?
Being bisexual. I love who I love and I’m finally in a place where I own that fully and unapologetically. There’s power in being fluid, openhearted and unafraid to feel everything deeply. It’s part of what makes me a bit of an enigma and I like it that way.
What was your dream job growing up and what is it now?
I wanted to be a dolphin trainer. Now, I would love to become an actor. As much as I love modelling, I’ve got stories to tell and I want to take up space.
How did you get into modelling and what’s been your career highlight so far?
I was scouted in a car park in my hometown and the first photo shoot ended up all over Gold Coast tourism campaigns. Since then, I’ve moved to Sydney and have worked on-set with names like Toyota, Havana Brown and Hooligan Hefs. It’s been a ride and it’s just getting started.
You’re also a social media personality. How do you keep your audience engaged?
My life is a beautiful chaos. I never know where I’ll be next or what opportunity is about to hit.
What don’t you like about being an Influencer?
The illusion. People assume everything’s perfect because the content’s curated, but I’m out here juggling dreams, deadlines and motherhood like the rest of us. Don’t let the lighting fool you, there’s hustle behind the glam pictures and a very real and raw life.
What’s the weirdest thing someone has sent you via social media?
Not even DMs – the wildest moments happen in real life because of social media. One time a guy came up to me and said, “Are you Shanti Griffin?” and then took off his “Griffey” baseball jersey in the middle of Woolworths and handed it to me like a trophy. I didn’t know whether to laugh, cry or get security.
Would you ever date one of your social media followers?
If they respect me, there’s chemistry, show up correctly… why not?
What’s the first thing you notice when you meet a man?
His energy, how he carries himself and how he treats people when no-one’s watching.
How can he win his way to your heart?
Loyalty. Presence. Devotion. I don’t need someone to save me, I need someone who sees me clearly and shows up anyway.
What have you learnt about men over the years?
They’re inspired by her. They unlearn the conditioning, lean into emotional intelligence and don’t flinch at vulnerability. The most magnetic ones are grounded, self-aware and know how to hold space without trying to control it. That kind of presence is rare and, to be honest, irresistible.
What’s one thing men should always remember about women?
A real woman upgrades your entire life, peace, purpose and presence. We love, elevate, expand and multiply. We bring the magic, the vision, the calm in the chaos. But take it for granted and you lose her and the version of you that existed because she believed in you. That kind of light doesn’t beg – it walks – and when it’s gone, there can be no going back.
When you’re not on social media or posing for the cameras, what else would we find you doing?
Talking to God, dancing, writing, being creative and spending time with friends eating delicious food and going to beautiful places.
What’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects on the horizon you can share with us?
Absolutely. I’m opening the doors a little wider and letting people in behind the hustle. You’ve seen the highlight reel, now it’s time to see the heart behind it. Stay tuned.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Shanti Griffin
BORN: January 24
HOMETOWN: Springbrook, Australia
CURRENTLY LIVES: Gold Coast, Australia
FIVE WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Looks clever. Walks into walls.”
LIFE MOTTO: “A soft heart and steel spine – that’s the vibe.”
TIKTOK: @shantilanigriffin
INSTAGRAM: @shantigriffin
Photography by CHAD SABSABI
Interview by SANTI PINTADO
Hair & make-up by OLIVIA MAYBERRY
For the full article grab the May 2025 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
