Caiya was born in German Valley, Illinois, USA to Patricia Jacobs (mother) and Richard Higar (father).
She was scouted by model agent Eileen Ford, while shopping with her mother in Chicago.
Soon after she went on to model for famous brands such as Chloe, Salvatore Ferragamo, Giofranco Ferre, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, amongst others.
As a result, she started working in the Japanese entertainment business and appeared in an array of TV shows, commercials, movies, and dramas.
She has authored lifestyle books on topics such as cooking, English, DIY, interior design, fashion, and beauty.