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A bold and beautiful pose – African models persevere to find foothold in China

By Han Manman

The fewer the competitors, the better the chance to win: that’s what African model Doris Okaka thought when she came to China to begin a new phase in her career.

Having modeled in Europe for five years, Doris believed Europe was no longer a wonderland for international models due to shrinking demand after the financial crisis.

She felt that with her strong African characteristics – dark, smooth skin and no hair – she could find more opportunities in China, where there is a shortage of African models. She came brimming with confidence, on the strength of a resume that included big runway shows in Africa and Europe.

But reality didn’t square with expectations. Her persona and bold appearance – greatly admired in Europe and the US – was a barrier to finding jobs in China. She found other black models experiencing the same setbacks.

Instead of leaving, she and her peers became determined to be pioneers for African models in this Far East market.

(via )