Modeling has been on the lips of everyone following the Miss SA saga with Chidimma Adetsheni. Gabby as she is popularly known is a young model on the journey to be on the cover of magazines and your TV screens. She is our cover story for November, here she is in her own words.
Hey, my name is Gabaza Ramuhashi. I am 19 years old, from Kempton Park, and I am a model. Modeling has been a passion of mine since I was a child. As I grew older I started researching the industry and discovered that the modeling industry is vast.
It is not only about the beauty pageant but there is so much more.
I started modeling at the age of eleven years old, starting in community and school beauty pageants. I won my first beauty pageant when I was twelve years old, that was my first school pageant.
I have joined several agencies including my training agency at the time which is called Figures Model. In 2020 I stopped modeling because of the restrictions and resumed again in 2022. Upon my return, I became Miss Teen Eastrand Finalist. In 2023 I became Miss Teen Universe Finalist 2024. My heart is fully set on modeling which is why I decided to join Toast Talent Modeling Agency before my current agency.
What I liked about this agency is that they offered different modeling categories. I aimed to get into commercial modeling. Throughout my modeling journey, I learned a lot about how the industry works. I have appeared in a few casting agencies, and in August I modeled for Blank Collections on their campaign. This led to me being accepted by one of the biggest agencies in the country, 33&Me Talent Agency.
I am currently raising funds to make a payment so that my portfolio can be upgraded so that I get representation by the agency. Should you wish to support me please click on Fund Gabby.
Joining an agency is critical because you have an advantage when it comes to casting opportunities. It is almost impossible to get casting opportunities as an independent artist/model. An agency can help you adhere to the strict requirements in the industry. You get exposure to several opportunities. Most importantly as the talent, the agency manages you accordingly, making your life a lot easier. Being part of an agency does not guarantee jobs, it is up to you the individual to impress the employers.
For me to become a model it meant that I have the confidence and the positive mindset. The industry requires an open-minded person with lots of patience. It is not only about beauty, you also need a sharp mind, confidence, and a bubbly attitude to go far.
My family has really been my pillar of strength with their support. Even though they do not fully understand the different categories in the industry, they are standing with me. Their support gives me energy and boosts my confidence. It really is the most important aspect of this journey.
I want to conclude by congratulating Miss Chidimma for her recent achievement in the Miss Universe Pageant. Her courage and resilience in the face of adversity is unfathomable. A great inspiration about not allowing circumstances no matter how tough, to get in your way. To go as far as the 1st runner-up even after such discrimination is something to be admired. Ends.
You can follow Gabaza on her Instagram or subscribe to her YouTube channel. As Gabby said she is currently raising funds to pay for representation. Tag My School has donated, It is pretty simple, just click back a buddy. And follow the instructions. Gabby is such a ball of fun and energy, has a beautiful heart, and is overall a great human being, did we mention that she is drop-dead gorgeous? Please support and follow her journey to stardom.
Below is the list of some of the modeling categories as mentioned by Gabby in her interview.
Fashion & Editorial
Fashion modeling sells a lifestyle and editorial modeling tells a story. Overall, the fashion and editorial Model category tends to be the most selective of all the Model types. The ideal Fashion/Editorial Model is incredibly tall, naturally predisposed to a slim build, and poses a unique ‘look’ before being considered the ‘complete package’ by fashion houses. These Models are large agencies represented by the top fashion agencies. Once you gain visibility, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experiment with a range of designer styles, fabrics, garments, makeup, and hairstyles.
Commercial Modeling
Commercial modeling is more about selling a product or service, and therefore these Models shoot for a wide range of advertisements in catalogs and commercials for clients across all industries. Commercial Models live in areas where reputable modeling agencies are located and can comfortably work full-time in this capacity. Core traits of the best commercial Models are a strong, adaptable, relatable repertoire with an innate ability to invoke feelings, emotions, and passion through their work for the client’s desired audience to purchase their product or service.
Runway Modeling
Runway Models should be at least 5’8” tall as a female and 6’0” tall as a male, however taller is always preferred. Runway Models must have precise measurements so they’re able to fit the clothes that designers are going to be showing to their clients. Fashion Models also must be photogenic, know their good angles, and be skilled in positioning the body to be flattering. Meanwhile, runway or catwalk Models require more physical skills on top of, such as being able to spin or walk backward in different types of clothing whilst remaining composed and photogenic.
Swimsuit
As a Swimsuit Model and/or Lingerie Model, you will work with the latest swim and lingerie styles and motivate the viewer to buy these. Swimsuit and lingerie models may work for designer lingerie and swimsuit brands and may be featured in the swimsuit and lingerie editions of popular magazines.
Fitness
Working as a Fitness Model is a little more flexible than fashion and swimsuit/lingerie modeling. Clients are typically not too specific about height or skin tone requirements. However, you will have to work consistently to maintain your fitness levels and maintain a toned figure at the size you are comfortable with.
Print Modeling
Print Models are often found in magazines, billboards, campaigns, booklets, flyers, and posters. Print Models have clear skin, and exude a warm and friendly persona, with the most essential element – they need to boast health/wellness and an attractive, appealing smile.
The term ‘Print Model’ is often referred to as ‘real faces’ or ‘average look’. Print Models are displayed in magazines, billboards, newspapers, campaigns, catalogs, and various other print mediums. While some Print Models are selling a product, others are simply photographed based on the needs of the client. Print Models are typically people who can look like everyday people – the girl/guy next door, your mother/father, etc.
Bridal Modelling
Wedding modeling is an elegant and enchanting facet of the fashion industry, dedicated exclusively to showcasing bridal attire. In markets like the UK and Australia, wedding modeling is not just about presenting beautiful dresses; it’s an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of matrimony. Models in these markets often represent diverse backgrounds, embodying the inclusive nature of modern weddings. They showcase a range of styles from classic to avant-garde, catering to the varied tastes of brides-to-be. UK and Australian wedding fashion often reflect the cultural diversity and contemporary trends of these nations, making each fashion show a display of unique artistry and cultural amalgamation.
Body Parts Modeling
Brands are often on the lookout for models with the perfect hands, feet, noses, and other body parts to market specific products and services. Trust me when I say that while parts modeling does not sound as glamorous as other high-fashion modeling options, this category provides plenty of opportunities for a lucrative career.
Parts Modelling is typically used to promote commercial products like jewelry, footwear, gloves, watches, wallets, and other smaller essential accessories. Physical traits like height, age, and overall beauty in appearance don’t play a huge role in deciding your potential for success in this category as they do in other Model categories. However, there will be specific attention to maintaining picture-perfect nails and smooth clear skin as an essential requirement to work in this niche.
Fit Modelling
Fashion designers and other experts in the fashion industry depend heavily on Fit Models for clarity on how a specific garment or creation would look on an actual moving human being. While you may not make any public appearances as a Fit Model, it is an incredible way to get a deep insight into how fashion design works and can even help you make some strong connections with people within the brands you work for. You may also get to work with some top designers and brands in the industry. Height and other requirements for fit modeling vary based on several factors of the brand, including whether they offer petite, tall, curved, mature, or maternity ranges.
Promotional Modelling
A Promotional Model is a Model hired to drive consumer demand for a product, service, brand, or concept by directly interacting with potential customers. Most promotional models are conventionally attractive in physical appearance though it’s more about having an engaging personality.
For this category, you need the looks and the smarts, as you’ll be trained as ‘Brand Ambassadors’ for each of the clients you’re promoting. Training can be anywhere from 30min before your shifts, or over hours/days in the lead-up to the job (aka brand activation) depending on the client and the depth of knowledge about the brand/product you need to be aware of.