MODEL CITIZEN

Words: Daniël Geldenhuys | Images: Instagram

The local fashion industry saw Brian Whitby’s potential. This time last year he was on the runway at Cape Town Fashion Week, having shot many a major campaign for South African designers and retailers. Brian was scouted on the streets of his home town in Durban. “He told me to meet him the next day at his office, which turned out to be an old car workshop. I never went back,” says Brian. “But this did spark interest, so I did some research and joined a recognised agency. Things picked up from there.”

Over the past year, modelling has flown Brian to Milan, Paris, London, Sicily and Berlin with clients including Dolce & Gabbana and Burberry. “All my experiences have been nothing short of amazing,” he attests, citing the expert teams and adrenalin rush he gets before stepping onto the runway. Still, “I think there is a misconception that we live a glamorous life and that it’s an easy job,” he says. Being a male model at Paris Fashion Week “can be stressful at times, especially when you have a lot of castings and fittings in a short period.”

With travel comes perspective. “We should embrace our diversity of cultures more,” says Brian. “They’re unique and highly underrated. Seeing the excitement on peoples’ faces when I say I’m South African is proof of that.” That sentiment extends to local design as well. Having worked with everyone from Amanda Laird Cherry to Burberry, Brian notes the importance of how culture is portrayed in the work of South African designers and how the best ones don’t feel the need to follow external trends.

Brian’s top tips for aspiring models feel like universal life mantras. “Have an agency that believes in you. Be kind. Don’t be afraid of rejection, it happens to everyone. It’s good to be professional, as reputation is important in this industry.” So what’s next? As is customary, his next big booking is just a phone call away. Since Brian’s initial introduction to the industry and nights spent watching fashion shows, his goal has been to walk shows in New York and work with YSL. “Fingers crossed!”