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Chioma Nnadi, a name synonymous with innovation and inclusivity in the world of fashion journalism, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone that reverberates far beyond the glossy pages of magazines and runways. She has etched her name in history as the first Black woman to assume the esteemed position of Editor-in-Chief at British Vogue. This monumental achievement is a watershed moment for an industry long criticized for its lack of diversity and a testament to the power of breaking barriers.

A Remarkable Trailblazer

Chioma Nnadi’s journey to the top echelons of fashion journalism is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Nigeria and raised in London, she developed a deep passion for storytelling and fashion at a young age. Her educational background in English Literature and Theatre set the stage for a career that would blend her love for words and style.

Before making history at British Vogue, Nnadi’s impressive career included editorial roles at publications like The Fader and Interview Magazine, where she honed her craft and gained valuable insights into the world of fashion and culture. Her knack for spotting emerging talents and her commitment to showcasing diverse narratives quickly made her a respected figure in the industry.

Championing Diversity and Authenticity

One of the standout qualities that Chioma Nnadi brings to her role as Editor-in-Chief is her unwavering dedication to diversity and authenticity in fashion. She has been a vocal advocate for increased representation of Black voices and faces within the industry. Her editorials have consistently pushed boundaries, challenging traditional beauty norms and celebrating the beauty of individuality.

Under Nnadi’s leadership, British Vogue is poised to continue its journey toward greater inclusivity. Her vision for the publication includes creating a platform where a multitude of voices can be heard, and where fashion reflects the rich tapestry of cultures and identities that make up our global community.

Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring Change

Chioma Nnadi’s historic appointment at British Vogue serves as a powerful reminder that representation matters. It challenges stereotypes and opens doors for aspiring Black journalists, writers, and creatives who previously may not have seen themselves at the pinnacle of the fashion world.

As the first Black woman to lead British Vogue, Nnadi is not only breaking barriers but also inspiring change within an industry that has often been criticized for its lack of diversity. Her journey exemplifies the importance of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to effecting positive change.

A New Era for British Vogue

As Chioma Nnadi embarks on her journey as Editor-in-Chief of British Vogue, it heralds a new era for the iconic publication. Her leadership promises to usher in fresh perspectives, celebrate diverse voices, and challenge the status quo. Her remarkable achievement is a testament to the progress being made in the fashion industry and a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and representative future.

In celebrating Chioma Nnadi’s historic appointment, we acknowledge not only her individual accomplishments but also the collective strides being made toward a more inclusive and equitable fashion industry. She paves the way for others to follow their dreams and shatter ceilings, proving that with talent, determination, and a commitment to diversity, there are no limits to what one can achieve. Chioma Nnadi’s name is now etched in the annals of fashion history, and her legacy is bound to be as influential as it is inspiring.

Janet Jumbo is the first Nigerian model to walk for Louis Vuitton. The 16-year-old made history after walking the runway for the popular international fashion brand.

Jumbo strutted down the runway during the Louis Vuitton Women’s Fall-Winter 2019 Fashion Show at the Louvre in Paris. 

Her agency took to Instagram to announce the exciting news writing,

“TODAY, JANET JUMBO IS THE FIRST NIGERIAN MODEL TO WALK THE LOUIS VUITTON SHOW EXCLUSIVELY. WE FEEL NOTHING BUT ALL SHADES OF HAPPINESS AND WE CAN’T CONTAIN IT.”

Janet who is  from Rivers State in Southern Nigeria was spotted on her way back from church on a Sunday. Since then, she has been signed to an agency called Raw Model Management Nigeria. Jumbo is also signed to IMG Models Worldwide. 

This agency manages some of the most famous models in the world like Kate Moss, Alek Wek, Gisele Bündchen, Joan Smalls, Karlie Kloss, Miranda Kerr, and Candice Swanepoel.

Jumbo also shared the exciting moment on her Instagram page.

The #MeToo movement has found its way to this part of the world, and the essence of it, is to remove the shame that’s typically associated with speaking out as a victim of sexual assault.

The end goal is to turn male-dominated and abusive power structures on their heads, and the Nigerian fashion industry has woken up to this, with models naming and shaming abusers they’ve come across in the past.

Nigerian models recently rallied together in a bid to stop the casual sexual violence they suffer, by calling out rampant perpetrators — specifically photographers and booking agents — as well as giving advice to young, aspiring models.

The success of a model’s career is largely dependent on the rooms her booking agent can get her into, and from the testaments shared on an Instagram page dedicated to this cause, it’s clear the men in these positions realised their power and used it to prey on these models.

Speaking to Konbini about this, top model Aduke Bey said:

“I’m lucky enough to never have experienced any sexual violence in fashion so far, but I know so many people who have. In fact, more people than not have been assaulted and it’s such a shame. 

First of all, we need more women in the industry as photographers, cinematographers etc, so that we can feel more comfortable around each other, and we won’t always be at the mercy of sometimes wicked men.

I’m glad that people are speaking up now, but we really need more people coming out and saying their stories. There’s still so much to uncover, and we’ve just scratched the surface. Silence gives these abusers more power”

Nigerians have a very limited understanding of a model’s importance in the fashion industry, and therefore cast the job aside as indecent and unserious. As a result, models sometimes feel pressure to entertain unwanted sexual advances in order to get ahead in their careers.

Models are actually crucial in fashion, as there would be no catwalk or runway shows without them. Designers need them to model their clothes in campaigns, and publications need them when creating their content. Given the importance of their role, they should be protected by those in power.

 

 

Credit: konbini.com

The woman who pionered professional modeling in Nigeria and became Nigeria’s first super model, has died.

Yemi Fawaz died yesterday February 20th at New York Lenox Hill Hospital. She was 64 years old. Ms Fawaz had been battling colon cancer for a while. She also had a hole in her heart and her kidney had began to fail her.

Nigeria

 

Yemi Fawaz started her modeling career and became a super model in the late 70s. She also established a modeling school and did a lot for the fashion industry in Nigeria. She left Nigeria in 1997 and didn’t return until 2016. She is survived by her 33 year old daughter. May her soul rest in peace.

NigeriaNigeria

 

Credit: LIB