The modeling industry has, in recent times, embraced inclusivity so much so that people, who in the past, would have been told they’ll be square pegs in round holes if they took up the profession, now have all the needed confidence to give it a shot.
Thanks to this diversity evolution, we are seeing campaigns that involve not just the “everyday model.”
In September for instance, Grammy award-winning musician and fashion designer Rihanna made the news with her Savage x Fenty show at the New York Fashion Week when the models strutting the runway were of different shapes and sizes, skin color, ethnicity, sexuality and physical appearance.
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A rather unorthodox lingerie fashion show, the Bajan beauty was praised for promoting diversity with some even calling for her show to replace Victoria’s Secret, which has, in recent times, been getting some stick for its lack of inclusivity and diversity.
As more diverse models are now being given the opportunity to showcase their talent, we spotlight those with albinism that are breaking glass ceilings. For the first edition, let’s take a look at these five black make models.
Check them out below:
Shaun Ross — Photo via @shaundross on Instagram
Shaun Ross
“I don’t want people to feel sorry for me because I don’t feel sorry for myself. I am extremely proud of myself and I wish everybody would be proud of themselves,” said Shaun Ross.
Born in The Bronx, New York, Shaun Ross is the first international male model with albinism. He has worked for various high-end fashion brands and featured in campaigns for Alexander McQueen, Vogue, GQ, Givenchy, just to mention a few. He has also made cameo appearances in music videos for Beyoncé and Lana Del Rey.
Sanele Junior Xaba — Photo via @sanele_xaba on Instagram
Sanele Junior Xaba
Initially bullied for his skin condition, Sanele Junior Xaba has risen above all obstacles to become a top model. The South African has modeled for several fashion outlets, including Adidas. He has also been featured in GQ.
Besides modeling, Sanele is also an activist. Speaking with The Guardian, he opened up about his involvement with a charity organization that advocates for the rights of people with albinism.
“The charity provides the kids with sunscreen and medical treatment because a lot of them have skin cancer,” he said about Inside The Same. “Now that I’ve realised I can use my looks to raise awareness and to challenge the perceptions and stereotypes about the condition, I’ve started to take a lot more pride in my own albinism.”
Jewell Jeffrey — Photo via @jewelljeffrey on Instagram
Jewell Jeffrey
Jewell Jeffrey is a man of many professions. Besides being a model, the Congolese-French is also a DJ and an actor. He has featured for various fashion brands, including Jean Paul Gautier.
Adama Dosso
Adama Dosso
Adama Dosso is a French model of Ivorian origin. He made a cameo appearance in Beyoncé’s music video Flawless.
