Usman Obe
Height: 6'3"/190 Chest: 38/96 Waist: 31/79 Inside leg: 34/86 Shoe: 11/45 Hair: black Eyes: brown
Usman is represented by Menace Models To see his book click here.
Hello, my name is Usman Obe. I’m 17 years old and I live in East London, Newham. I am a model for Model Menace Management and Red Models. I am also currently in school studying Physical education, Psychology and Sociology. When I’m not modelling I try to keep myself busy and fit by playing football most of the time.
When did you start modelling?
I started modelling in January, beginning of this year.
How did you get scouted?
I was on a bus near a train station, that’s when I was approached by my agent Patrick. He told me he loves my looks and could see me working for clients such as Burberry.
Who are the models you aspire(d) to?
I aspire to be the best I can be, but a model that I look up to is a friend, Omar Sessay. He’s an amazing model, both of our careers have been jump started by walking the Burberry AW20 show. I admire his work as a model and I’ve always liked his welcoming personality and vibe ever since I’ve met him. I hope to work with him in the near future.
What would be your dream modelling job?
My dream modelling job would be a Nike campaign, Nike has always been my number one brand ever since I was a kid so being able to work with them would be unbelievable.
In an industry that is based on appearances, how do you handle negative comments and rejection?
Negative comments have never affected me as a person, and I see rejection as an obstacle that I just have to move forward from. I just tell myself to persevere through rejections and other obstacles, better days will eventually come.
From your perspective, how do you think the fashion industry can improve?
I believe organisation is a way the fashion industry can improve, from what I’ve experienced a lot of things in modelling are quite unpredictable and last minute so models have to stay on their toes and adapt, which can be very difficult at times.
What’s your favourite project/shoot you’ve done so far?
Walking the Burberry AW20 show, the feeling was surreal and the adrenaline rush when walking on the same runway with other models such as Kendal Jenner is amazing. I would do it all again if I could, I will always be grateful for my agent giving me such an opportunity at such an early stage within my modelling.
Tell us something we wouldn’t know by looking at your portfolio? Probably my age. Almost every person I meet within the fashion industry assume that I’m a lot older that what I actually am based of my appearance. Its always funny to me when I witness the reaction of others when they found out I’m 17.
What’s your favourite feature?
My favourite feature would be my height, it has given me many advantages during my life in areas such as sport, and obviously modelling.
What’s you motto in life?
Go harder. With anything that I do In life I always make sure that I try hard with whatever it is.
You can follow Usman Obe on Instagram @usmanobe
Photos by Dimitris Theocharis