In search of representation: Black models on the runway

I’ll admit that whilst I thoroughly enjoy ogling at couture collections I’m really also looking for something or rather someone. My representative. The Black Model.

Black models continue to be so few and far between that I’ve memorized a select few that’s it’s almost unfair because there are so many of them whose names should be recognized, but because the work is so few, they’re not.  And here’s why: Michelene Auguste was quoted saying when she attended a casting, she was told that agents were not using models of her type.  To receive such a response in this day and age is appauling to say the least.

I will say though, that unlike their American counterpart, the European Vogue shows our girls some love and the editorial spreads are just breathtaking. So, on whose runways can you find them?  Mara Hoffman, Viviene Westwood, Zac Posen, Gaultier, Catherine Malandrino, Versace, DVF, McQueen, and Lanvin to name but a few.  So aside from the usual suspects beauties-Alek, Liya, Chanel and Naomi, I’d like to introduce or re-introduce a few to you that you should be on the look out for.

I’ll be doing a weekly profile of these ladies so look out for that! Special shout out to Essence Magazine for putting together such a comprehensive directory and inspiring this post.  Let’s support our girls.

Ajuma Nasenyana-Kenyan

Ataui Deng-Sudanese

Ajak Deng-Sudanese

Anais Mali-French

Arlenis Sosa-Dominican

Leona Binx Walton-American

Cindy Bruna-Congolese-Italian

Devanie Gobir-Nigerian American

Fatima Siad-Somalian

Grace Bol-Sudanese

Grace Mahary-Eritrean

Herieth Paul-Tanzanian

Kai Newman-Jamaican

Kyra Green-American

Imaan Hamman-Dutch

Jasmine Tooks-American

Jeneil Williams-Jamaican

Malaika Firth-British

Maria Borges-Angolan

Marihenny Rivera Pasible-Dominican

Melodie Monrose-Martinican

Michelene Auguste-Trinidad & Tobago

Nykhor Paul-Sudanese

Roberta Narciso-Angolan

Senait Gidey-Canadian

Sessilee Lopez

Sharam Diniz-Angolan