Performing Arts

From Nairobi to US Fashion Runways

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Shanelle Nyasiase, a Sudanese-Kenyan model in an Alexander McQueen shoot. PHOTO | COURTESY

At only 21, Shanelle Nyasiase has already travelled half the world cat walking on numerous international fashion runways. From her humble beginnings as a Black girl determined to put her footprints in the modelling industry, she shares her journey to becoming a supermodel and being the face of British fashion designer and couturier Alexander McQueen. She has also appeared on Valentino, Givenchy and Versace runway shows— a big deal for really dark-skinned women. Besides Shanelle, more African models are finding spaces on international runways including Grace Bol, Anok Yai, Aduth Akoth, all originally from South Sudan.

Who is Shanelle Nyasiase ?

I am South Sudanese-Kenyan. I was born in Ethiopia and grew up in South Sudan, then moved to Kenya. I lived with my uncle in Nairobi when I was 13 years so as to get better education. I’m the second born in a family of four.
I always wanted to be a model ever since I was young but it seemed like a dream. I struggled early in my career in Kenya but because I love fashion, I wanted to prove people wrong. No one wanted me to be a model, including my family. Also, in the Kenyan fashion industry, I was never really accepted because I am too dark and skinny.

When did you start modelling?

Just after high school. I started modelling in Nairobi. In 2016, I got scouted by Ingrid Tamborin and Daniele Tamagni. I then signed with MP Management, a models agency in Europe. [The late Mr Tamagni was a Italian photographer best known for documenting the fashionable dandies of the Congo].

How were you able to get into the international market?

It was not easy. I was lucky I met the right people. I have a team that markets me.

What are some of the challenges you face as a super model?

There is too much competition. They are many models and very few spaces to fit everyone. It  isn’t easy, but what I have come to learn is that you have to stay focused to stand out.

Do people look at you differently?

Yes, because I’m a stunning, young African girl who is travelling around the world working with top clients. But people treat you differently if you allow them to.

Which top designers have you worked with?

Gucci, Valentino, Versace, Tom Ford. I have been the cover model for Dazed magazine [a UK style magazine] and I am the face of Alexander McQueen campaign.

What does it take to become a supermodel?

There’s more to being a supermodel than simply being tall and pretty. Any girl who wants to become a model and make a career should be tough, motivated to succeed and be willing to work really hard.

Which designers in Kenya do you look up to?

In Kenya?  Designers like Adele Dejak, Ann McCreath of Kiko Romeo and Sunny Dolat (a fashion stylist.) Those were the only people who believed in me then.

What are some of the do’s and don’ts of an aspiring model?

First, don’t think like a model, think as a business woman.

Don’t work for free. Don’t believe all the promises people make.

Don’t take short-cuts.

Don’t hate on other models because you cannot own the business alone to be a successful model.

Don’t drink too much.