Senegalese born fashion model, Pape Diouf has been labelled "weird" by those who do not understand his style but he doesn't let the opinion of naysayers stop him from celebrating himself and his roots. The model who lives in the city of Dakar, Senegal, speaks to us on how having a supportive family and the right company can help one realize their dreams.
I decided to be a model about a year ago. My family has helped me a lot, especially my mother. She always gives me good advice, telling me that she knows what I'm worth, and that fashion is my whole profile. My friends also help me a lot with my projects and it gives me great pleasure for the trust they all have in me.
Pape reveals that he was different from other people even before he became a model. Whenever he went on outings, people look at him weirdly, "maybe it's because I'm not in their world, I love myself the way I am with my alternative style," he adds.
Pape further shares how signed into Loys Modeling Agency, and his modelling journey afterwards.
I was recruited by Loys Modeling Agency in January 2021. They contacted one of my photographers, Fédé Kortez. He spoke with the agency and I signed with them afterwards. At the moment, I haven't started working with them yet, which makes me excited. I can't wait to start working so that I can finally share my fashion potentials with people.
I had to work on a style called Kadjia her in Senegal; it was last year November. The goal was to launch its new NIUKU Collection. It means a lot to me because it's the first brand I've worked with.
When it comes to modelling, I am my own idol; it may seem a little weird to you, but it’s true. I too have a dream to achieve and I will work as much as possible to make it happen and be a point of reference in my country and all over the world.
In the near future, I envision myself working for big brands like Gucci, Louis-Vuitton, Versace, Prada etc. Because I think that's my whole profile and it's also one of my dreams to be able to work with its major brands. I see my dreams coming true, by having good collaborations that will showcase my potential, my value, and my contributions to fashion.
There is a sense of fear that brews amongst young creatives—the inability to share their dreams with their families because of the manner in which the creative arts are stereotypes as ‘unprofessional’ in African society. Pape advises creatives who experience something similar.
I advise male talents to share their plans with their families, even though it might not be easy for them to accept them at first; then, they should work with them a lot, while remaining positive and creative... Eventually, their parents will understand them.
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