The graceful Ayan Elmi

Ayan Elmi’s been on my radar for a while and thanks to my co-worker a fellow Somali, I’m finally profiling her!

Born in Somalia and raised in Toronto, Ayan was scouted whilst on the bus.  Not one to shy away from trying she decided to give modelling a shot.

She admits struggling in the beginning to find her footing and credits her mentors such as Yasmine Warsame for showing her the ropes and giving her the confidence she needed.  Warsame and Liya Kebede are among her role models.

Ayan proudly speaks of the comraderie that exists between her and her fellow Somalis in the industry where one can often feel very lonely.

She has graced the international runway of the likes of Jean Paul Gaultier and locally for Toronto designers Sunny Fong (VAWK), Joe Fresh and Rudsack.

Ayan has a thick skin and is proof that one can remain grounded whilst living the life model life. Bravo Ayan!