Life of a model.

Estifanos Berta Samuel- International Model.

Ian Jindela

Across the globe he has dazzled on several runways and graced the pages of print publications as a model with his impressive physique. He currently lives in Johannesburg, South Africa and shuttles between New York and Los Angeles under his Johannesburg based agency.

Estifanos Berta Samuel started modelling at the age of 15, today he looks back on his journey with pride. Having worked with some of the best artist, photographers, and designers in the industry, has paved the way for his career. He has worked as an assistant stylist at ENYCE, and appeared in several campaigns like: Absolut Vodka commercial in Paris, France; S.A Fashion Week, South Africa; History Channel commercial in Hollywood, CA; Joburg Fashion Week, South Africa; MTN Africa print media, SABC Dance Your Butt off, South Africa; L.A Fashion Week and BET Awards Fashion Show just to name a few.

Jamati Online recently caught up with Estifanos, who lists Tyson Beckford, Tyra Banks, Kimora Lee and Iman as his role models in the industry, to find out about his journey into the world of fashion in Africa, his spirituality, his ambitions and personal battles.

“In my sophomore year of college, Howard University, a guy that lived in my dorm was a photographer for a local upstart model agency. Every time I saw him, he suggested to me that I speak with the agents because I had the look that they wanted but of course I declined each time. One day while returning to the dorm from dance class, as I was sweating and breathing like a beast, I saw that guy and the CEO of the agency leaving the building. As fate would have it, I was stopped and questioned about modeling, and then asked to meet later with the agency. I did after several weeks of thinking it over and was given my first contract for representation. The rest is history” explains Estifanos Berta-Samuel.

Currently working as a full time model, stylist, model trainer and have designed a course for fashion show production/coordination in South Africa. In the near future he is hoping to teach fashion institutions and take it to African Continent and abroad. During his spear time he enjoys dance and choreograph (East & West African, Ballet, Modern, Jazz, some Hip Hop, & Salsa). He desired to be powerful business man and theatre is his first love, there is nothing like it.

“Judging by his determination and journey through the industry both overseas and on the continent, he may very well be on his way to achieving his dream.” Ameyaw Deborah-Modern Gana-2010