ISIS Models Africa elevates African talent on world runways
ISIS Models Africa has solidified its position as one of the continent’s leading modeling agencies, maintaining a strong presence across major international fashion capitals, including Milan, New York, Paris, and
- By Chinyere Okoroafor
ISIS Models Africa has solidified its position as one of the continent’s leading modeling agencies, maintaining a strong presence across major international fashion capitals, including Milan, New York, Paris, and London.
Founded in 2008 by Nigerian fashion entrepreneur Mrs. Joan Okorodudu, the agency has grown from a local talent management firm into a globally recognised institution.
Strategic partnerships with top agencies in Europe and the US, alongside collaborations with Studio 24 and Select Model Management, have created structured pathways for African models to access global opportunities.
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Speaking on the agency’s global impact, Mrs. Okorodudu said, “From the very beginning, our mission has been to ensure African models are not just seen, but respected and celebrated on the global stage. Today, the results speak for themselves.”
Widely regarded as one of the agencies with the highest number of working Black models internationally, ISIS Models Africa has consistently increased representation in high-profile runway shows, editorial campaigns, and global brand activations. At major fashion weeks in Milan and New York, models from the agency have commanded attention across both haute couture and ready-to-wear showcases.
Mrs. Okorodudu emphasised that the agency’s success is anchored in training, discipline, and global readiness. “We invest in our talents, preparing them for sustainable international careers, not just seasonal appearances,” she said.
Beyond the runway, ISIS Models Africa has positioned its models for editorial and commercial success, featuring in leading magazines, including Vogue, and major advertising campaigns for luxury brands.
Its flagship initiative, Africa’s Next Super Model, in partnership with Select Model Management and led globally by CEO Matteo Puglisi, continues to serve as Africa’s largest talent discovery platform, producing models who now walk for top designers across Europe and North America.
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In recognition of her contributions, Mrs. Okorodudu received a Lifetime Presidential Award in 2024 from US President Joe Biden for promoting African artists, culture, and fashion, as well as supporting young women and refugee communities.
Through initiatives such as the Runways to Freedom Foundation and Vogue Talent for Africa, she has raised substantial funding and created platforms that bridge African talent to the international fashion scene.
Speaking on the agency’s broader mission, she said, “We are not just building models; we are building global citizens. Every platform we create opens doors for Africa.”
Despite personal loss following the death of her husband, Air Vice Marshal Omatsola Terry Okorodudu, Mrs. Okorodudu continues to lead ISIS Models Africa alongside other business ventures, including Centurion Securities and International Business Consortium, while mentoring the next generation of African talent.
Industry stakeholders now see ISIS Models Africa as more than a modeling agency; it is a cultural bridge connecting Africa to the global fashion narrative. By consistently producing world-class talent, the agency has redefined perceptions of African beauty and professionalism.
“The world is beginning to understand that African talent is not a trend, it is the future,” Mrs. Okorodudu said. “We will continue to push boundaries until African models take their rightful place at the very top of the global fashion industry.”
With its sustained international presence and commitment to talent development, ISIS Models Africa remains at the forefront of transforming the global fashion landscape, ensuring African models are central to the industry’s evolution.
