Over the past years, we have seen a surge of different models that have unique features own the run walk and feature in high fashion magazine spreads.

The modelling world has definitely opened up to incorporating diversity, not only through their designs but also through their selection of models.

It is no secret that the runway is catching up to our ever changing social norms, beauty perceptions, and gender stereotypes. Need we say, we love it! 

Take a look at some of Africa’s precious gems that you know and love on our runways:

1. |Tanzania| Herieth Paul

Herieth Paul (25) is one of the top models of the world and has been for years. A quick scan of her Instagram shows that she is not only on the runway in Paris (Balmain, anyone?) giving legit Blue Steel, but she is also inspiring others to appreciate themselves.

She appeared in a lot of advertising campaigns and editorial spreads, and was even named Maybelline’s global spokesperson.

The Tanzanian, moved to Canada when she was 14 and she has been making waves ever since.

Nudes 👁

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Behind the scenes!!! So excited to walk that runway 🇫🇷 #vsfashionshow #vsfs2016

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2.  |Angola| Maria Borges

Maria Borges (25) is an Angolan fashion model. She has many accolades to her name. She was named by Forbes Africa Magazine, as the top model of 2013 and she also made history in 2015 by being the first black model to ever walk in the Victoria’s Secret fashion show whilst wearing her natural afro hair.

Her journey has not been an easy one. She was raised by her siblings during the Angolan civil war until was discovered in 2010 by an agent, after competing in the Elite Model Look Angola contest.

She has been featured in advertisements for Givenchy, Bobbi Brown, L’Oreal Paris, Maybelline, Tommy Hilfiger, C&A and H&M. She also walked the run ways of Temperley, Trussardi, Vionnet, Wes Gordon, Yeezy and Victoria’s Secret.

MUSE at Brazil’s Carnival ✔️ #carnival #rio #muse #fantasia #mariaborges

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3. |Somalia| Fatima Siad

We were first introduced to Fatima (30) through America’s Next Top Model search. She appeared shy and reserved on the show but she has since evolved into a Top model, slaying in her own right.

She has participated in campaigns for Avon, Ralph Lauren and cosmetics giant, Pantene and walked for some of fashion’s most coveted designers, She is definitely no stranger to walking the runways at New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week.

#tbt #BCBG current mood, Moroccan chilling style

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4. |Nigeria| Victor Ogonna Ndigwe

Victor (27) redefined history by being the first male Nigerian model to make an appearance at fashion weeks hosted in Paris, Milan and London. He has modelled for the Italian luxury brand, Versace and some other reputable brands in the world and in 2014, he scooped the Elite Model Look Nigeria prize.

He has a fresh look and strong distinctive features. Vogue, got it right, he is really one of the male models to look out for. We have our eyes trained on this talented young man.

#Dark_Chocolate #victorndigwe

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5. |South Africa| Sanele Xaba

Durban born Sanele (24) is a model who is definitely comfortable in his own skin, we all know it and we can see it. He is pushing beauty boundaries and and redefining the catwalk stereotypes, one step at a time.

He is an activist and raises awareness about albinism. He appeared in magazines such as GQ and Marie Claire, and has been dubbed as Africa’s first albino male model to receive international recognition. Sanele is recognised as the most profiled model in 2016.

6. |Uganda| Aamito Lagum

Aamito Stacie Lagum is a Ugandan model, famous for being the winner of the first season of Africa’s Next Top Model. She was born to her single mother Sidonia Ayaa in Kampala.

After winning Africa’s Next Top Model, Lagum was signed with Boss Model Management in South Africa and was featured in an editorial for Marie Claire South Africa in August 2014. She later signed with DNA Model Management and relocated to New York City.

Lagum debuted in the F/W 2015 season, walking for the likes of Lacoste, Marc by Marc Jacobs, J. Mendel, Rag & Bone, Giles, Jonathan Saunders, Paul Smith, and Bottega Veneta.

She then went on to open Balenciaga in Paris, making her the first model of color to open the show under Alexander Wang. She continued her streak, booking more shows like Lanvin, Dries van Noten, H&M, Giambattista Valli, and Hermès.

7. |SOUTH AFRICA| Eugon McNeil

Cape Town born model, Eugon Mcneil (21) was discovered at a wedding, where he was the best man of a stylist in 2012. He has walked the fashion runways of Milan, Paris and New York at the tender age of 18. He was also named one of New York’s top black male models in 2014.

He has also modelled for many household names such as GQ, Salvatore Ferragamo, Andrea Pomilio, Onitsuka Tiger, Ports 1961, Craig Port, David Tlale, Andrian Kuiters, Cosmopolitan 3D Fashion, Elle Magazine and he is currently based in New York City.

A beautiful portrait captured by Photo: @ryanpfluger

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Warning: Ladies, this will problematic as it leads to long hours of cyber stalking and drooling. If you’re with your boyfriend, kindly excuse yourself so you can enjoy a few minutes of eye candy in peace.

Watch: Top 10 Black Super Models

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Categories: Fashion Lifestyle