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Dr. Sharon Okubo stands as a model who transcends the ordinary, earning the title of a supermodel gracing the most prestigious global fashion shows.
Notably, she also assumes a prominent role in high-profile UN sessions as the African Renaissance and Diaspora's Red Card Campaign (ARDN) ambassador, rubbing shoulders with influential figures in the diplomatic arena.
Yet, her impressive resume hasn't hindered her passion for giving back to her home country, Kenya. She operates an NGO named the Andaa Vijana Initiative, dedicated to empowering and skill-building among the youth, while connecting them with mentors.
In her capacity as an ARDN ambassador, Sharon focuses on raising awareness about the challenges faced by women and girls in Africa and the diaspora.
New York City serves as her home base, providing her with a wealth of connections and opportunities. Among the glitz and glamour of the fashion runways, including the upcoming New York Fashion Week, it's challenging to recognize Sharon.
"My journey in the fashion industry has been a remarkable one. While I haven't personally experienced discrimination or violence, I'm well aware that the fashion industry, like any other, isn't immune to these issues. Throughout my career, I've heard countless stories from both females and males who've encountered discrimination within the fashion world," she reflects.
Upon receiving the invitation to become a Goodwill Ambassador, Sharon didn't hesitate. She sought to create a positive impact within the fashion industry, shedding light on discrimination and violence against women and girls.
"I'm committed to leveraging my platform and influence as a model to address these issues. Raising awareness and initiating conversations can pave the way for dismantling discriminatory practices and promoting gender equality," Sharon asserts.
Recognizing the extensive societal impact of the fashion industry, Sharon believes it plays a pivotal role in driving social change.
Through her participation in the ARDN Red Card Campaign, she aspires to utilize her voice and influence to challenge harmful norms, advocate for equal treatment, and support initiatives empowering women.
Sharon's journey began when a local modeling agency discovered her as a teenager attending a fashion event in her hometown. With the agency's guidance, she ventured into casting calls, photoshoots, and local fashion shows, gaining confidence and foundational knowledge. To reach the international level, she pushed herself further.
Her determination led her to explore opportunities beyond her local market, honing skills and cultivating industry relationships. Through collaborations with premium brands like Bottega Veneta, Sean John, Paul Mitchell, Larissa Glazirani, and Donna Karen, she's showcased their designs and contributed to their creative vision.
Sharon has graced the runways of renowned events such as Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, and New York Fashion Week, unveiling the latest trends and designs from top global designers.
For aspiring models, Sharon advises unwavering focus, diligence, and persistence in pursuing their goals. She emphasizes that the future of modeling is moving towards inclusivity and diversity, with a stronger representation of black models. Overcoming challenges may entail limited representation, racial discrimination, tokenism, and pressures to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. Breaking these barriers requires persistence, advocating for change, and supporting initiatives fostering inclusivity.
Sharon, born in Kenya to a Luyha father and a mother from the West Indies, migrated to the US at age nine. While she currently resides in New York pursuing higher education and modeling, she contemplates returning to Kenya. In the future, she envisions dedicating time to overseeing the Andaa Vijana Initiative, alongside other projects.
With the strength of a supermodel and the conviction of an ambassador, Sharon Okubo is a force working to reshape the industry and uplift her community.
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