Fashion designer Memory Ngwira has urged models in Malawi to build strong personal brands to increase their earning potential and protect themselves from exploitation in the creative industry.
Speakin during a modelling training session in Lilongwe organised by èmèn Fashion Brands and Solace Marketing Agency, to equip young people with skills to market their talents, she said many aspiring models have the passion and ability to succeed, but lack the knowledge to turn their skills into income-generating opportunities.
| Courtesy of Memory Ngwira
“That is why we organised the training. We wanted to empower them with the knowledge and skills they can use to grow their personal brands and turn their talents into marketable skills,” said Ngwira.
Ngwira added that lack of awareness about their value leaves some models vulnerable to exploitation by people within the industry.
Ngwira said the training also marked the introduction of Solace Creative Academy, an initiative that will offer training to creatives, including models, singers and actors on how to develop their personal brands.
The training attracted participants aged between 18 and 30. Organisers plan to take the training to other parts of the country to reach out to more models.
Guest trainer Masiye Mazaza said understanding personal branding is important for models who want to establish themselves and earn from their talents.
“People often think of brands as organisations, but individuals can also be brands. They need to understand that they have value and learn how to build it,” he said.
Mazaza said models contribute beyond runway shows as they are featured in music videos, act and help fashion businesses to showcase their products.
“Models should understand to build a brand that people will want to work with. When that demand comes, they should be able to say, ‘I cannot do this for free because I have invested in myself,’” he said.
Mazaza also urged models to work with agencies and managers who can guide them in their careers and help them navigate the industry professionally.
One of the participants, Junior Magos, said the local industry offers limited opportunities due to the low frequency of fashion shows while some brands expect models to showcase their products without payment.
“I have learned how to brand myself and my modelling career, including knowing what to post and what not to post on social media to maintain a professional image,” he said.
