AMANTLE MOKOANA – MAKING WAVES IN MZANSI

20year old Amantle Mokoana from Daveyton east rand is currently signed to Model Republic. He has aprirations to designing his own clothing with an already established brand and branch into creating fashion than consuming fashion.

Background & Inspiration

What first inspired you to pursue modeling?

One of my good friends to date Thatohatsi kuwane a working model, told I should try and he will help me throughout the process.

Who are some models or public figures you look up to?

I look up to Yaya tourai and Njolijean ,the way that these artists compliment their skin tone to their background to their styling is truly an inspiration for dark skin models…!

How did you take your first step into the modeling world?

 Taking test shoots and Polaroid pictures. Building my portfolio was my priority!

What role has your family or community played in supporting your dream?

My family has been the backbone for my stable thinking in this industry. It’s because of my brother I have progressed this far. I thank GOD for blessing me with a family and a community of friends.

Journey & Challenges

What has been the most exciting experience for you so far?

Travelling is one of the best experiences I’ve come to love, and I enjoy how modelling exposes you to different cultures and traditions.

What challenges have you faced as an aspiring model?

The expenses prior to booking my first job.

How do you stay motivated when things get tough?

I visit my friend and I take time of creating and I focus more on consuming other inspirations and ideas.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received along the way?

You know what you have to do.

Style & Identity

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is very light hearted I personally describe it as, any day fashion. It’s pushing the boundaries on everyday wear. Bending the rules slightly to get away with upsetting the ground you walk on.

Do you feel fashion is more about expressing yourself or following trends?

Fashion is about self expression within the trend. A bit of segregation within the masses, I think that’s peak fashion.

What makes you stand out as a model?

 I think difference is a perception of a perspective, to some people I may be the best or to some people I may be the worst. What makes me stand out is my willingness to accept that!

How do you bring your personality into your work?

Music… I have found the most effective way to invite mood into a room is through music. Good personality and charisma will take over…!

Industry Perspective

What changes would you like to see in the modeling industry?

Less gatekeepers… I know your network is your net worth, I genuinely think some people are cool but because of who you are you can’t walk over to them and say “hi”!

How do you think social media has impacted opportunities for new models?

Social Media has been a big leverage for models, and where most freelance models book their jobs. Everyone who is an aspiring model has to have social media presence.

Do you see modeling as a career, a stepping stone, or both?

Models can be career or can be the base of your career, but consistency and good genetics will determine your future as a model

Aspirations & Vision

What types of campaigns or brands would you love to work with?

 I would like to work with maxhosa, viviers and many other brands that are in my area…!

Do you dream of walking any specific runway or working with a particular designer?

Ohh for sure I plan on walking for pharrell Williams and Louis Vuitton and I would like to walk for Ralph Lauren and manny more brands.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Ohh for sure I plan on walking for pharrell Williams and Louis Vuitton and I would like to walk for Ralph Lauren and manny more brands.

If you weren’t modeling, what would you be doing instead?

 In Milan… probably late for a fashion show because my friend forgot to set his alarm.  I would’ve been in the military fighting for my country…!

What message do you want to share with others who dream of modeling?

 Do not overthink it, just start now!