" We want to meet you in person while we discuss and shape together the future of our fashion industry most especially in the Modeling Sector. We’ve been waiting for this time to meet you and hear about what you are doing, and aiming to do and how better we can collaborate on the series of projects we have for models while we emphasize our recently announced Models Casting and the main Edition 2 of the biggest current Fashion Show in Rwanda" announcement by the Stage Fashion Showcase calling modeling agencies. 

Announcement by SSANDUINA LTD the organizer of the Stage Fashion Showcase [PHOTO SSANDUINA]

Sandrine Mucyo is a former model turned entrepreneur on a mission to bring cohesion to Rwanda's modeling industry through her STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE. However, her efforts have faced resistance from some agency leaders unwilling to collaborate. The STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE, now in its second year, aims to provide a platform for models from different agencies to come together and showcase their talents. Mucyo, the founder, believes this kind of unified event benefits the entire industry. 

Ms. Sandrine Mucyo CEO and Managing Director of SSANDUINA LTD the organizer of the Stage Fashion Showcase [PHOTO SSANDUINA]

"When we work separately, it limits the opportunities for our models," Mucyo said. "By joining forces for events like the STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE, we can elevate Rwandan modeling and attract more brands and sponsors." 

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However, getting agency leaders on board has proven difficult. Some have accused others of being selfish or mismanaging their organizations. There are also long-standing rivalries and trust issues preventing cooperation.

[Second from the right on the first row in a yellow T-shirt] Ms. Sandrine Mucyo with other modeling agency leaders after the meeting in Kigali - PHOTO SSANDUINA

"We've tried collaborating before, but it always falls apart because people put their own interests first," said Jacques Havugimana head of KMM  "Until we can get past that, these efforts won't succeed."

Despite the roadblocks, Mucyo remains determined. The most recent STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE in October 2023 featured models from different modeling agencies sharing the runway.

40 out of over 250 models were selected to participate in the inauguration of the highly anticipated STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE 2023 at the Marriott Hotel [PHOTO NT]

Model on the runway at the Stage Fashion Showcase 2023 [PHOTO SSANDUINA]

"It's a start, but I won't give up on my vision of a unified modeling community here," Mucyo stated. "The benefits for everyone involved are clear. We just have to overcome the egos and politics getting in the way."

Ms. Sandrine Mucyo CEO and Managing Director of SSANDUINA LTD the organizer of the Stage Fashion Showcase [PHOTO SSANDUINA]

As she continues rallying the agencies, Mucyo hopes to make the STAGE FASHION SHOWCASE an unmissable annual event that brings positive attention to Rwanda's modeling talent. The Stage Fashion Showcase is a hub for models that is not only geared towards booking talent on a national level but also towards planning a fashion show, under the auspices of SSANDUINA Ltd, with the goal of discovering, promoting, and growing Africa's models and fashion designers on a worldwide level.

Ms. Sandrine Mucyo CEO and Managing Director of SSANDUINA LTD the organizer of the Stage Fashion Showcase [PHOTO SSANDUINA]

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