9 Rwanda's Female Models Continue to Shine on International Fashion Stage 2024: Here's Why

In recent years, Rwanda's female models have been making waves on the international fashion scene, gracing runways from New York to Paris, Milan, and London. Their success raises intriguing questions: How have these Rwandan models managed to break into the competitive global fashion industry? And do they embody the spirit of Ndabaga, a legendary figure in Rwandan history known for her bravery and defiance of traditional gender roles?

The Rise of Rwandan Models on the Global Stage

The journey of Rwandan women in modeling is a relatively recent phenomenon, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the country's cultural history. Traditionally, Rwandan women were known for their beauty, secrecy, and responsibility in taking care of family and home. However, their roles were often limited, with certain jobs and activities considered off-limits.

Rwanda's women earlier in 1880 [Photo Credit: MR]

The 1994 Tutsi Genocide marked a turning point for women's roles in Rwandan society. In the aftermath, women played a crucial role in helping the country recover from this tragedy. Gradually, societal norms began to shift, allowing women to enter previously male-dominated fields, including modeling.

Initially, modeling was viewed with skepticism by many Rwandans, often dismissed as a frivolous or even disreputable profession. However, through the efforts of pioneering individuals and agencies, modeling has gained recognition and respect as a legitimate career path.

Models: Anifa Umufite, Isheja Morella, and Christine Munezero [Photo credit: IG Models]

Spotlight on Rwanda's International Models

Let's take a closer look at some of the Rwandan models who have made their mark on the international fashion stage:

Anipha Umufite: Known professionally as Anipha Kay, she has walked for prestigious brands like Prada, Fendi, Dior, Hermes, and Dolce & Gabbana. In 2022, Umufite landed a deal with Kanye West's 'Yeezy Gap' collection and featured alongside supermodel Naomi Campbell. In May 2024, she appeared in Vogue Italia.

Mushikiwabo Denyse:  She has showcased collections for Tommy Hilfiger, Balmain Paris, Victoria Beckham, Carven, Gucci, and Prada, among others. Mushikiwabo's talent has been recognized by agencies like The Wave, Select Models Paris, and Muse Model NYC.

Christine Munezero:  A regular at major fashion weeks in Milan, Paris, London, and New York, Munezero has worked with renowned brands such as Maison Valentino, Maison Margiela, Chloé, Dior, Versace, and Gucci.

Umutoni Ornella:  She presented designs for Loewe, Hermes, and MIU MIU at the Paris Fashion Week in February 2024. Umutoni is signed with agencies in the USA, Italy, France, Barcelona, and Greece.

Esther Niyirera:  Making her debut at Paris Fashion Week in early 2024, Niyirera has quickly risen to prominence, working with fashion brands from the UK, Italy, and France.

Jennifer Girukwishaka:  Since her international debut in Paris in October 2021, Girukwishaka has become a familiar face on global fashion stages, represented by agencies in Italy, England, France, USA, and Spain.

Ines Pamela: Pamela's journey began in 2021 with the help of 'We Best Models Management'. Pamela has since graced prestigious runways for Louis Vuitton, Balmain, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen.

Morella Isheja:  One of the youngest Rwandan models making waves internationally, Isheja has impressed at London Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week, representing brands like Courreges and Giambattista Valli.

 Kentha Kirezi:  Isheja's sister, Kirezi, is part of the emerging talent in the fashion industry. She has walked alongside industry icons like Naomi Campbell and Winnie Harlow at London Fashion Week.

The Spirit of Ndabaga: Courage and Determination

The success of these Rwandan models on the international stage can be seen as a modern embodiment of the spirit of Ndabaga, a legendary figure in Rwandan history. Ndabaga's story is one of sacrifice, determination, and breaking gender barriers.

Rwanda's female holding a spear earlier in 1880 [Photo Credit: MR]

According to legend, Ndabaga was a young woman who disguised herself as a man to replace her father in the king's army, as there was no son to take his place. She trained rigorously in warrior skills and even went to the extreme of removing her breasts to maintain her disguise. Although eventually discovered, Ndabaga's bravery and skill impressed the king and led to changes in the military service system.

Rwanda's King Yuhi V Musinga and his warriors [Photo Credit: MR]

Like Ndabaga, these modern Rwandan models have shown incredible determination and courage in pursuing their dreams. They have overcome cultural barriers, skepticism, and fierce competition to make their mark in the global fashion industry. Their success challenges traditional notions of women's roles in Rwandan society and opens up new possibilities for future generations.

Kids on the runway in a fashion show in Kigali [Photo Credit: RCFS]

Factors Contributing to Rwand’s Models  Success

Several factors have contributed to the success of Rwandan models on the international stage and these include; Natural Beauty and Unique Looks: Rwandan women are known for their striking features, which stand out in the diverse world of international fashion.

It also includes; Height and Physique: Many Rwandan women possess the tall, lean physique prized in the modeling industry, Cultural Shift: The changing attitudes towards women's roles in Rwandan society have opened up new opportunities in fields like modeling, Government Support: Rwanda's government has been supportive of initiatives that showcase the country's talent on the global stage.

“Women are an important pillar of the development of our country,” President of Rwanda H.E Paul Kagame | International Women’s Day [Photo Credit: PO]

ALSO READ: Official Launch: What should models expect from the Rwanda Fashion Models Union?

There are other factors such as International Exposure: As Rwanda becomes more connected to the global community, opportunities for its models to be discovered by international agencies have increased, Persistence and Hard Work: The success stories of these models are marked by their dedication, resilience, and willingness to seize opportunities.

 In the photo models: Denyse Mushikiwabo, Isheja Morella, Anifa Umufite, and Jennifer Girukwishaka [Photo credit: IG Models]

The rise of Rwandan models on the international fashion stage is a witness to the changing face of Rwanda and the determination of its women. Like Ndabaga of legend, these modern-day heroines have broken barriers and challenged societal norms. Their success not only brings recognition to Rwanda but also inspires future generations of Rwandan women to dream big and pursue their ambitions, regardless of the field.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS