In a crowd of phenomenal talent, what does it take to stand out? Being a Celine exclusive or Alessandro Michele’s newest Gucci girl may be a sure-fire way to secure the fashion world’s attention, but for Gen Z, models need to do more than just walk the walk, they need to stand for something too. With diversity and sustainability high on the agenda for change, we speak to seven breakout models—all in Vogue T-shirts, available here—on how they plan to use their platforms to change fashion.
Photographer: Ekua King
Make up: Jodie Hyams @ Background Beauty
Hair: Kat Hand @ Background Beauty
Nails: Michelle Humphrey @ LMC Worldwide
Styling: Alex Kessler
Producer: Jamie Spence
1 / 7
Tash Ogeare
Age: 19
Hometown: Portland, Jamaica
Walked for: Celine autumn/winter 2019
Signed to: Premier Model Management
Instagram: @tashogeare
Making her debut on Celine’s AW19 runway, Tash Ogeare embodies Hedi Slimane’s effortlessly cool, Parisian bourgeois aesthetic. And, she’s just getting started. Name-checking Iman and Naomi Campbell as two of her biggest inspirations, the 19-year-old Jamaican hopes to follow in their footsteps: “Inspiring others while paving my own way to greatness.”
When and where were you spotted?
In late 2017 I went to an audition that was being held by the best agency in Jamaica (Saint International), I met with the founder of the agency, Deiwght Peters, and he scouted me without hesitation.
Why did you decide to become a model?
My mom is my inspiration. When I was feeling insecure about my height, she was the one who made me believe that I could be a model. She’s always been supportive of my career choice.
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
Iman and Naomi Campbell are my role models. They’ve made a huge impact in the fashion industry; both supermodels are very passionate about their career and they’ve never given up, no matter how hard it has gotten. Their determination inspires me.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
Over the years there has been a growth in diversity in the fashion industry. It’s amazing that brands are using different models for jobs, however I think that diversity is limited. I hope to contribute to this by promoting diversity when I’m at a point where I have an influence on the industry.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
I get a lot of motivational support from my loved ones and my manager, so whenever I feel uncertain about anything, they’re the ones who keep me focused.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
Be strong, positive and never give up on your dreams!
2 / 7
Jan Baiboon
Age: 24
Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Walked for: Chanel cruise 2018/2019, spring/summer 2020 was her first major fashion week
Signed to: Wilhelmina
Instagram: @jbaiboon
Already a favourite of Chanel’s, Thai model Jan Baiboon is unparalleled when it comes to versatility, both on the runway and in fashion editorials. Once self-conscious about her height, she credits modelling for giving her the confidence to empower others, with a “call for diversity” in fashion and how we define models in the future.
When and where were you spotted?
Seven years ago I went to a modelling contest in Bangkok. I didn’t qualify for it, but I was scouted.
Why did you decide to become a model?
Before I was a model, I never had confidence in myself. I was the tallest person in high school and felt different from my classmates. Working as a model makes me proud of myself.
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
Liu Wen is my role model. She inspires many young Asian girls who have a dream to become a model. I am one because I was inspired by her story.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
I would like to see the definition of a model change. It’s not only about being tall and slim. I would like to see a variety of models.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
Focus on my goal and do my best today.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
Be yourself. Forget your fears and follow your dreams.
3 / 7
Mitch Greene
Age: 26
Hometown: London, UK
Walked for: Christopher Kane autumn/winter 2019
Signed to: Select Model Management
Instagram: @m_itj
Walking for Christopher Kane’s autumn/winter 2019 show, Mitch Greene has the quiet confidence that’s become a signature of models on the London scene. Her personal style is laid-back, dictated by charity shop finds, and this season, she’s all about taking it as it comes.
When and where were you spotted?
Two years ago in Stratford, Westfield [shopping centre].
Why did you decide to become a model?
I’m up for trying anything. If you have the opportunity, I thought, why not!
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
My role models are anyone who is true to themselves. That’s a good way to be in any job, and life in general I think.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
Change is important and necessary. The direction it seems to be going in is good, so more of that. And kindness, that’s important!
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
Trying to practice kindness every day is a good way to stay positive.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
You never know what’s around the corner, so just try to enjoy it.
4 / 7
Ikram Abdi Omar
Age: 23
Hometown: Stockholm, Sweden
Walked for: Molly Goddard autumn/winter 2018, her official debut was at the spring/summer 2020 shows
Signed to: Premier Model Management
Instagram: @ikramabdi
With her unshakable confidence and goal to “motivate younger girls on how the headscarf doesn’t limit you from anything,” 23-year-old Abdi Omar already understands the power of her platform. Having starred alongside Halima Aden and Amina Adan on Vogue Arabia’s April 2019 cover and taking to the catwalk for the likes of Molly Goddard, this London-based model is well on her way to becoming a real force in fashion.
When and where were you spotted?
I was spotted in Bristol by a casting director who then introduced me to Premier.
Why did you decide to become a model?
I’ve always been interested in modelling, and I felt that the lack of representation in the industry needed a bit of a change—it had to be more inclusive.
Who were your role models growing up?
Naomi Campbell and Iman.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
More inclusion from all races and backgrounds, so younger people can be inspired and get into creative fields. I plan to continue working as a model and motivate younger girls on how the headscarf doesn’t limit you from anything.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
I try to stay away from negative comments and focus on my goals. I like to stay surrounded by family and friends to keep me happy. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, so you have to keep pushing even during the uncertain times.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
A lot of people dream but don’t take action, so I would say make sure you spend time on what you want and create a plan so you can follow it and turn the dream into a reality.
5 / 7
Rose Redding
Age: 21
Hometown: London, UK
Walked for: Hunter Original spring/summer 2016
Signed to: Titanium Management
Instagram: @rose.redd._pole
While modelling may be in her DNA (both parents are former models), Brit model Rose Redding knows that balance is key when it comes to a career in fashion. She’s a true bohemian spirit, with environmental issues “from sustainability to animal conservation” at the top of her agenda for change. She’s a champion of body positivity, too.
When and where were you spotted?
When I was 13, in Camden.
Why did you decide to become a model?
Both my parents were models in the 1980s, so I had been hearing stories from a young age. My dream from a young girl was to be able to travel to as many places as possible and see different cultures.
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
After modelling, my mum took up teaching traditional Satyananda yoga, she really influenced both me and my brother and helped us become who we are now. She taught us to be free and be connected with nature. To not take life too seriously and be at one with the plants, sun, moon and stars. This has influenced my career to not change for other people, to be myself around clients, and to keep myself healthy while modelling.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
I would love to see big brands really making all the effort they can to change the materials they use and to address the ecological climate emergency. My plans are to use the money I have earned to volunteer with animals suffering from human actions.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
I am fortunate, in a sense, that I have lots of friends and family who are involved in projects from sustainability to animal conservation. They keep me motivated and keep my faith, especially in our generation’s ability to make a difference.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
Keep green fingers and spend as much time as you can with the earth. There is something so grounding and magical about tending to plants, I recommend it to everyone. Also, pole dancing has made a huge change in my life—I feel motivated, I have love for myself and I am confident in my own body.
6 / 7
Urvashi Umrao
Age: 23
Hometown: Gujarat, India
Walked for: Yet to make her runway debut
Signed to: Titanium Management
Instagram: @urvashi_umrao
Before Mumbai-based model Urvashi Umrao was scouted, she believed modelling was reserved for Bollywood stars. Today she strives to base her self-worth on more than just looks, and not compare herself to others—for this 23-year-old it’s diversity that will better the fashion industry.
When and where were you spotted?
I was scouted on my college campus during my first year. I was new to Mumbai and new to the culture of the city. I was not even aware of the existence of a modelling industry there.
Why did you decide to become a model?
Initially the excitement I had about being a model was due to the fact that I had never been noticed for my looks before. I was pretty invisible in college. But the biggest push came from my mom, who revealed to me that she always had a secret desire to see me on the cover of a magazine.
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
The very first supermodel I was introduced to was Coco Rocha and I was blown away by her, especially by her personal beliefs (about never posing nude). I also want to be the kind of person who never compromises on her ideals.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux, what changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
I find it odd how teenage girls model for products catering to women in their thirties, forties and older. It’s a disturbing trend which idolises youth. There should be older models. There’s beauty in growing old. There’s wisdom, the kind that only comes with age.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
In a superficial industry like modelling, it is super easy to feel less confident, have low self-esteem and generally be plagued by negativity. I stopped basing my self-worth on just my looks. I tried to curb my habit of comparing my career to other models.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
Never compromise on your education. It’s the one thing that’s going to carry you forward, or at least help you in making decisions about what you want to do later in life.
7 / 7
Delphi McNicol
Age: 20
Hometown: London, UK
Walked for: Gucci autumn/winter 2019
Signed to: The Hive Management
Instagram: @delphi_mc
It’s easy to see why Delphi McNicol is fast becoming a favourite of Alessandro Michele, hers is an aesthetic that fits perfectly with the Gucci creative director’s vision, both on the runway and in campaigns. But for us, it’s the 20-year-old Londoner’s passion for sustainability and social engagement that separates her from the rest.
When and where were you spotted?
I was in Kingston, charity shopping and I was approached as I came out of a shop. This was in my first year at sixth form college—three years ago now. I remember I was wearing one of my dad’s knackered old shirts at the time and I was shocked that someone saw model potential in me!
Why did you decide to become a model?
At first, I was intrigued by the concept of modelling as I’d never done anything like it before. I’ve always been a strong believer in taking advantage of any opportunities life throws your way, so I guess initially it was a, ‘hey, what’s to lose?’ mindset.
Who were your role models growing up and how have they influenced you and your career?
Watching lots of documentaries about some of my favourite musicians/artists/designers (such as The Beatles, M.I.A., Alexander McQueen, Yayoi Kusama) and hearing their stories of how they went from being ‘regular’ people to becoming so influential has helped me to believe that anything is possible, no matter how many setbacks I may have.
The fashion industry is in a state of flux. What changes would you like to see going forward and how do you plan to contribute to that change?
I’d love to see more sustainable fashion brands and the buying of pre-loved/recycled clothing and accessories become the norm. More brands are promising to only use sustainable/eco-friendly/carbon-neutral materials and production techniques, which is something that I feel very invested in. I hope that I can focus my efforts more on working with such brands.
How do you stay positive and motivated in the uncertain times we are living in today?
[I] surround myself with positive, like-minded people. I think it’s important to not ignore what’s going on in the world—politically, socially, environmentally—as being aware is the first step before change can be made. I also try to focus on the good changes that are happening in the world, and in my life, and on bettering myself and those around me.
What advice would you give those wishing to follow in your footsteps?
Don’t compare yourself to other people. This goes for everyone, but especially when it comes to modelling as it’s an industry based on physical appearance. You are beautiful and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
