The Autumn/Winter 2018 season of SA Menswear Week (SAMW) introduced new faces. Here are my top 6 picks from the runway.
Emmanuel Kayenda in Unknown Union . Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
1. Emmanuel Kayenda, 25, Boss Models Cape Town
How were you discovered?
I’ve been in the industry from 2014 after I was discovered by Kutlwano Magazine in Botswana. It has been an amazing journey, challenging but worthwhile.
Your career highlights?
I won Botswana top male model in 2015 and 2016, and my move to Cape Town for a contract with one of the biggest agencies in South Africa. Another highlight is walking for Maxhosa by Laduma at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week last year. I respect and admire Laduma’s work.
What do you enjoy about being a model?
It is fun and exciting, you get to travel and meet new people each day and learn about new cultures. In this dynamic world, it is interesting because it teaches you tolerance, and it’s a good way to stay healthy and fit.
How do you stay in shape?
I go to the gym three times a week and try to eat healthy every day.
Where can we follow you?
At instagram@emmanuelkayenda and Facebook: Emmanuel Kayenda.
Clinton Samuel in Maxivive. Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
2.Clinton Samuel, 24, 20 Model Management SA (parent agency).
How were you discovered? I
was scouted by Nigeria Top Model and I have been modelling for eight years.
What’s the biggest misconception about the male modelling industry?
That people think male models can’t be as successful as female models but there is more demand for androgynous models, which means more opportunities for us.
What are your other passions besides modelling?
I’m also a singer, actor, stylist and a professional Kizomba dancer.
Where can we follow you? Facebook: Clinton Samuel Instagram: @theclintonsamuel
Website: clintonsamuel.co
Richmond Ekow Barnes, wearing Sol Sol. Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
3. Richmond Ekow Barnes, 23 20 Model Management, Cape Town Novel Models Elite, NYC LED MEN, Nigeria
Your career highlights?
Shooting for Puma for Fashion TV and a campaign for Uber Ghana. Getting published in magazines, GQ South Africa and Fashion Shift.
What is the biggest misconception about the male modelling industry?
That we are dumb. Also that to become a model you need a pretty face and a toned body. This is simply not true. Being a model requires determination, persistence, motivation, a good attitude, a good head on your shoulders, support from those in the industry and courage!
What do you enjoy about being a model?
My favourite aspect of modelling is the freedom of expression through clothing and posing and getting to inspire people. What keeps me excited about modelling is knowing that there is always room to be creative and always something new to try and I get to meet some awesome peeps in the industry.
Where can we follow you?
Twitter: @EkowBarnes
Instagram: @EkowBarnes_
Hakim Nkengurutse, wearing Magents. Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
4. Hakim Nkengurutse, 20, Cape Town: Models International. Durban and Joburg: Pace models
Your career highlights?
The first male Burundian model to feature at SA Fashion Week, SA Menswear Week and Durban Fashion Fair. It’s been a dream come true doing summer campaign for Edgars and appearing in Nike adverts, among other things.
What do you enjoy about being a model?
I enjoy almost everything: travelling, meeting and working with amazing people, taking photos and, of course, the pay cheque.
.How do you stay in shape?
I maintain my weight by running and do weight training at the gym.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram: @hakimnkengurutse
Facebook: Hakim Nkengurutse
Bryan Edward Edem in Arakani. Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
5. Bryan Edward Edem, 20 Model Management
Your career highlights? I would say I’ve been really blessed. During my first season, I featured in SA Menswear Week to the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. I have also been blessed to shoot with top photographers and work with respected clients and brands.
What’s the biggest misconception about the male modelling industry?
We are not all gay; also models aren’t drug addicts and we are not overly obsessed with our bodies.
How do you stay in shape?
Modelling is a cut-throat business which requires seemingly baby-smooth skin and a flawless body. As a result, I live a healthy lifestyle. The moment I decided to be a professional model, I knew it was time to forgo the piles of doughnuts, the boxes of chocolates, fries and other junk food. I work out in the gym to stay toned.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram: @sirbryanedward
Facebook: Bryan Edward Edem.
Brandon Alastair, in LemFux. Picture: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo
6. Brandon Alastair, 24, FANJAM Model Management
Your career highlights?
My highlight has been my career. Coming from Ruimsig on the West Rand, it has been a complete whirlwind.
What’s the biggest misconception about the male modelling industry?
That we aren’t intellectual; I myself have two degrees.
What do you enjoy about being a model?
I love the lifestyle it affords me. I get to meet new and interesting people each day and learn from them all. I think that is the most important thing in life!
Where can we follow you?
I
nstagram: @brandonalast air and all other social media platforms.
See the all of the SA Menswear Week runway shows here: http://www.menswearweek.co.za/