Call her Our Model in Romania, as Antonnela Senatus, 21, is the only known model from Haiti on the runways in that country. At designer fashion shows, her darkly bronzed skin makes her a novelty, and she attracts attention wherever she goes. Born in Gonaives, Haiti, Senatus says because of her height, she was handpicked by the fellow classmates to be part of the basketball team at her school College Saint Pierre Claver. Her schoolmates nicknamed her kasav—cassava—because, she said, they thought she was as thin as the flat vegetable bread, not having no front and no back. Senatus says she also earned the nickname Doll from her schoolmates as well, for her slim figure.

Antonnela Senatus was already living like a model, long before she became Romania’s Haitian sensation. She loved putting on makeup at her home in Gonaives, and would parade as if on the catwalk. The flashy, unique outfits she would put together made her a standout at school and during little get-togethers with friends, and school activities.

Little Antonnela would stuff her book bag with a change of clothes, jewelry and other accessories and change halfway to school into one of her self-styled get-ups. To her surprise, when her mother found out, she wasn’t angry, and actually encouraged her fashion sense. Her father, on the other hand, was not too pleased.

In addition to being a model in the making, she was also a stylist in the making, styling her little sister at the request of her mother, whenever the former was heading out the door. Oh, and Antonella Senatus has never, ever liked flat shoes. High-heeled pumps have always been the way to go ever since she was a little girl.

Things are good for her in Romania. She now is able to speak fluent Romanian, helping her career right along.

Q & A

How did you get started in modeling?
It’s been 6 years already, which means that I was fifteen when I started out. I loved music. I was singing a rendition of a song at a show, with my family in town, and right after I met this man who came to introduce himself to me and asked me if I was a model. At the time, I didn’t really know much about modeling. He gave my mom his card and he invited us to his agency a few days after. My mom and I went to his agency and discussed it over with him, and my mom agreed to have me sign with his agency so that he could teach me the ropes. He trained me for 3 months. He was a good teacher. I really miss him. May he rest in peace, Delfin Bien-Aimé—better known as Doudou.

How did you end up in Romania?
I met a Romanian in Haiti. He saw me at a fashion show in Haiti. We became friends. Then he suggested that I come to Romania to work for an even bigger agency. I allowed him to take a couple of photos of me. He went to an agency in his hometown, and they agreed to sign me on for a year-long contract. So, that’s how I ended up going to Romania. My contract ended and they’ve been renewing it ever since, [and will continue to renew it] as long as I want to continue working with them.

You live in Romania. Is that permanent?
I live in Romania. Yes [it’s permanent] because I’m engaged to a Romanian, and I love Romania.

What did your parents think of you going to live there?
My mother died in the earthquake. My father lived in Gonaives. I was living with my mom, but after the earthquake, I went to join my father. He was working in Customs, he lost his job, and then my mother died, and he started doing nothing but drinking. It made living with him unbearable. This led to my decision to go in Romania without even letting him know about it because he wouldn’t have let me go. That’s why I did everything in secret and left Haiti. It’s not until I got there, that I called him. He was really mad at me. He never called me. When I called, he wouldn’t answer. In the end, I kept into account that he was my dad after all, and he knows I love him a lot. So, after two years I went back and went to see him. He was so happy, he cried.

Is there anything that’s remotely close to a Haitian community in Romania?
Of course not. I can count on one hand all the Haitians who are living in Romania. There’s not even a Haitian embassy there, and that’s the same thing with Haiti. Not only that, it’s also rare to find a Romanian who knows where Haiti is. Most often they think it’s in Africa. Besides, I live in the second biggest city there, and I haven’t met any other Haitians.

Was it difficult for you to adapt when you got there?
When I got there, I didn’t speak the language as of yet. It was really, really quiet. And then people would just stare at me when I would go out.

What’s it like for foreigners, and in particular blacks in Romania?
Well, for those who already knew I was coming, I got a really nice welcome. On the other hand, in the city you don’t see a lot of black people. They don’t like to go out because they say they get starred at a lot. Me, I always go out. When I go somewhere, they are always gawking at me. Towards the beginning, that bothered me. For example, one of my neighbors had a three-year old kid. The first time he saw me, he started to cry like he saw a monster or something. [Laughter] But now, he’s really used to me, and he’s one of my best friends. Let me tell you about something else that happened to me. I was at a rehearsal and I started speaking Romanian. A huge crowd started gathering around me, just starring. I asked them why. They said they’ve never seen a beautiful woman like me. The ones that they see on TV—Beyoncé–are not real, whereas with me they saw me with their own two eyes. That was really mindboggling. There’s an African who’s been living in the city; they always think she’s Naomi Campbell. In my case, I live in a city, where by now everyone knows me, because I’m the only black model in that city. And I’m always at all the modeling shows, as a host, on the runway, doing photo shoots, and commercials.

What is the modeling world like in Southeastern Europe?
In Europe, being a model means that you’re an awfully beautiful creature. And it’s hard, because it’s not everyone who can do it. You have to have a nice body, which means being at least 5’10 and have a small waist. There’s been times when I’ve been told that my hips are too wide. The fashion world is highly regarded in Europe; the models are treated really well, and there are always great assignments. It’s very exhausting because there’s always something to do. For certain cities in Europe, it’s not always lucrative, just like in Romania, it’s not every fashion show that’s well-paid, like the ones for fashion malls and the smaller clothing stores. On the other hand, the show for big designers like Catalin Botezatu, Andrea Tincu y Sence, Laura Olteanu are. Those are always well-paid on the same scale of countries like Italy and London, because being a model in those places is always great, which means that one is always at the top.

Up to this point, what’s been your greatest moment as a model?
I remember my first time on the runway during Romania Fashion Week. Oh my God, they dropped us off at the hotel, and they gave us the time to come down for a meeting. When I went downstairs, I was the only black model in the room. When all the other ladies there started starring at me, I felt two sensations. I got really shy and I felt proud. When I went back to my room, I cried, because the two people who were responsible for me being this far—meaning Doudou my modeling instructor, and my mom—both of them had died.

Ask Stephane Achille about herself and most likely she’ll respond with a blank stare—not because she’s at loss at to what to say, but rather, she may not know where to start when enumerating her accomplishments. Her scholastic accomplishments include an undergraduate degrees in Nursing and near-completion of one in International Relations.

Achille is also a model. She started modeling while in her 30s, that in itself a feat, considering ageism in that industry. But she decided to take a stab at it regardless, after being stopped on the street and getting on-the-spot inquries from passers-by and photographers.

Oh, another thing: she’s an Educator, teaching aspiring new nurses at colleges in her area. Born in Haiti, she came to the United States when she was twelve years old. She initially lived in New York, then spent a decade and a half in the state of Texas, before moving to Florida.

Achille recalls being moved by how much she was welcomed by the Haitian community in South Florida, and returning the cultural squeezy-hug right back, by participating in cultural events and promoting Haitian culture at every opportunity.

And oh yeah: she’s a musical journalist, having written performance reviews for the internet-based Haitian entertainment news outlet called HaitianBeatz.

Most people think that modeling is very glamorous. Is that always the case? What goes into modeling that most people don’t see?
Modeling is very glamorous and you meet some pretty extraordinary human beings along the way and I traveled extensively and it’s quite exhilarating. Unfortunately, I was never able to pursue the career fully because I could never make the decision to walk away from my Nursing profession to model full time because I did not think that it was a sustainable way of making a living because the expectations are somewhat unrealistic at times. By that I mean, I was never able to maintain a stable weight because I fluctuated as most women do but this is not permissible in modeling because you are expected to maintain a certain weight. In addition, I was a homeowner and what most people don’t see is the amount of preparation that goes into a fashion show for example. You prepare your body both mentally and physically for weeks leading up to maybe a 45 second appearance on stage. You can spend hours in hair and makeup. And the amount of abuse your hair and skin goes through to achieve a certain look can take its toll. At the end, it’s all worth it, because models love having their pictures taken, obviously. But just like any other job, it requires discipline and you have to take it seriously because it’s a lot of work.

When you were growing up, and did you look at yourself in the mirror, did you feel beautiful?
I was a cute girl with very long hair…People picked me up endlessly and carried me; I never walked as a little girl. Someone would invariably carry me so I would not say that I looked at myself in the mirror and “felt beautiful” per se, but I knew I was very special. I have a lot of beautiful women in my family including my sister Myriam Achille. I think I was just one of many beautiful little girls growing up. There was never any real emphasis on outer beauty.

Lots of girls want to be models. Do you have some advice for them?
I would say go for it! But make sure that you have a career to fall back on just in case.

What’s a day in the life of Stephane Achille the model like?
Well, I’m just a normal woman just like everyone else—except I take extra steps to take exquisite care of my hair, my skin and my teeth. I live in my beautiful pool home in Miami, Florida which I own. And I maintain a very peaceful and almost therapeutic home life and lifestyle. I lecture twice a week as a Nurse Educator and I attend classes at Florida International University to pursue a second college degree full-time. I’m an avid reader and conversationalist. I interact with friends on several platforms including social media. I attend major events both socially and as a writer. My private time is spent enjoying my close friends and family. I have my own website and this is where I receive most of my requests for modeling jobs, but due to time constraints, I have not been able to fulfill most of my proposals this year. I consider myself a talent and I tend to shy away from the label, model.

What was it like growing up in a Haitian household?
My wonderful humanitarian grandmother named Madeleine Perez raised me. She was the Mayor of Jacmel in Haiti for almost 40 years. When I ventured out with my grandmother as a little girl, I did not have a traditional Haitian childhood per se in that I had a guard who followed me everywhere I went and they even stood outside of my classrooms in elementary school for security purposes—which was part of regular protocol for that time. Growing up, we had a [governess] Madame Robillard, a very educated woman who took great care to ensure that my sister and I had the proper home life as my grandmother tended to the day to day activities of running the town of Jacmel. I did not see my grandmother as a politician, but rather as a public servant. I remember attending official ribbon cutting ceremonies with her to inaugurate new roads in Jacmel. We had homes both in Port-au-Prince and Jacmel and went back and forth. Our homes were full of visitors and as children, we were sheltered naturally, but those were the most memorable times of my life. My uncle Robert Bauduy who was an incredible mind, instilled in me the love of the Haitian arts and culture, but especially the art of reading and the love for books.

What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had on the runway?
Because of my height of 5’5, I did not do many runway shows, but I was fortunate enough to participate in many fashion shows because of my winning personality. I remember doing a fashion show with a Haitian modeling agency and I walked out in front of nearly 10,000 people in Bayfront Park in Miami during a Haitian festival wearing nothing but a bikini by a Haitian designer! I remember the energy from the crowd as I stood fearlessly and unapologetically and I worked that runway with all the pride of being a beautiful Haitian professional woman.

It seems that from reports about the modeling industry, not only are models plagued with issues of eating disorders, and botched surgeries, now there’s this trend among some to resort to body enhancements, include artificial injections.
I pride myself on being 100% natural—from my fingernails to my hair. I have never had any plastic surgery of any kind. I don’t know what the statistics are on the prevalence of eating disorders or “botched” surgeries within the modeling industry. But I know for a fact that the women who are the most successful in the industry are those who maintain a healthy lifestyle and remain as natural as possible. Often times, a Polaroid picture with no makeup is preferred over a re-touched photo in the photo submission process with major modeling agencies. Therefore, we can conclude that the mainstream modeling industry tends to shy away from women with body enhancements, piercings or tattoos.

How do you stay fit?
Naturally, there is tremendous effort to maintain an ideal weight in modeling, but I always represented the “average” woman or “real” woman—for lack of a better word—because I was always voluptuous and the trend in the fashion industry in recent years especially for print modeling which is what I did for the most part, is not as strict because of celebrities such as Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez who paved the way I would say for fashion to include woman such as myself to even consider modeling. I was always well proportioned although I fluctuated in weight, but I don’t do as much as I would like to in order to stay fit because I eat almost anything that I want in moderation of course. My goal is to hit the gym, but so far I haven’t done so but I will! I lead a super active lifestyle, which is not a substitution, but I keep a great balance of especially mind and body, which is probably the most important thing. I meditate on my yoga mat and I stretch endlessly in a very calm and peaceful home that I created for myself to thrive on this earth.

Do you have some beauty tips in terms of how to best remove makeup? Some little-known shortcuts to beauty?
Absolutely! I don’t wear makeup on a daily basis. For school and work, I use translucent powder, a bronzer and lip-gloss! My skin care regimen is very strict. I use a light exfoliator everyday and I moisturize my skin twice a day and I stay out of the sun. I use a clarifying mask weekly and I drink tons of water. My shortcuts to beauty are to accept myself the way that I am and to remain as close as possible to my authentic self—meaning if I color my hair, it will always aim to stay as close to my natural color as possible. I don’t utilize any chemical hair relaxers or artificial hair because I prefer to take care of my scalp and natural hair by moisturizing my real hair once a week with pure coconut oil. I’m careful to ensure that I don’t strain my hair follicles with tight ponytails or braids to avoid traction alopecia which is essentially irreversible hair loss related to the pulling of the your hair strands at the root. So what if your hair is not straight? I am so happy with the number of women that have opted to embrace their natural hair texture and skin color.

How can a woman develop confidence in herself?
This is such a great question. I believe that all of us have an important role to fulfill on earth and can contribute greatly to society. I am a huge proponent of higher learning and I think that there is a big correlation between knowledge and confidence. With knowledge, you build self-confidence and the realization that we are all equal to one another regardless of our individual characteristics and backgrounds. I am a humanitarian and I help others and as I do, I also help myself. I accept my weaknesses and strengths and I am a working progress. I speak publicly and openly and lead a fairly transparent life. I don’t believe that we can thrive in a secret society and therefore, I share my knowledge with others and I learn from everyone even children. As a member of the written press/media for the Haitian Music Industry, women are under-represented and I remember times when I would go to a press conference and I would be the only woman in the room, but I assumed myself with confidence and I continuously tell myself that I belong in that room just like anyone else. I operate through my fears and face life dead on and I’m not afraid of making a fool out of myself. I just live my life and follow my dreams. I have to leave my legacy on this earth and therefore, I utilize all my talents whether acquired or God-given and I don’t compare myself to anyone else. I remain authentic to my true self and I don’t copy on anyone either. Confidence comes from accepting yourself first, then embracing everyone else the way that they are.

Some models struggle with self-esteem. How do you keep your head up in an industry where rejection is rampant?
Well, as I stated before, I did not always get selected for runway shows due in part to the standard height or weight requirements. But if I wanted to be part of a show, I would still go to the casting with my positive outlook. Sometimes, the casting directors would still select me because of my great attitude. I modeled handbags and sunglasses and I did not think twice about the rejections because I always looked at modeling as my hobby because I was so passionate about it. I was featured in a music video once and my small stature worked to my advantage because the director did not want a woman who was six feet tall or a size zero. The average consumer does not look like a runway model. There is a market for every shade of color and every age group and even every height and weight. I have wonderful hair, skin and eyebrows and I can take tight close ups that show beautifully on print and therefore, I represent the non-traditional models that also have a place in the field. In the United States and all across the world, we have senior models that represent brands that do not necessarily want an 18-year-old person because the product would not fit that particular look.

What should we expect from you in the future?
I am working on some excellent projects but most importantly, I plan on attending law school and therefore I maintain a perfect GPA of 4.0 in my second undergraduate degree in International Relations, which I should complete by the end of the year. When I feel prepared, I will sit for the LSAT—the Law School Admission Test—which is an aptitude test for Pre-Law candidates such as myself. I intend on remaining very active in the Haitian community both locally and abroad and being a role model for those who admire me. I also plan to continue to lecture as a Nurse Educator and write as a member of the Haitian Press/Media. I will continue to model until the wheels fall off and represent the women of my age group. I am fortunate enough to be race-ambiguous meaning I can represent every ethnicity which is appropriate within the context of modeling. Above all, I strive to represent Haiti in every way possible to continue to elevate the image of my beloved country. I’d like to thank Kreyolicious Magazine for this wonderful interview and I invite you to visit me on www.stephaneachille.com and interact with me on social media.

Talk about being at the right place at the right time! At the age of eighteen, Hencha Voigt left her home in Haiti to go attend college at St. John’s University in New York City. Who should spot her on her first night out in the city of lights and high towers, but a talent scout from the street wear clothing line FUBU! The Miami resident has been modeling ever since, showing off her unique look in music videos, commercials, and at club events.

Hencha Voigt lives to be Hencha Voigt. She’s a combination of attitude, spunk and, well, confidence. She’s like one of those popular girls you knew when you were in high school—the type who walked with a shrugging, overly confident air. The type who was whispered and gossiped about, but whose caravan could not be stopped.

Ms. Voigt discussed expanding her brand with Kreyolicious.com.

Your first name is pretty unique.

Yes, it is. It’s my father’s name backwards. His name is Charles-Henry, so he took the “Hen” from Henry and the “Cha” from Charles.

Do you always strive to stand out in life?

Everywhere I go, I’m always the sun of the venue. I stand out not only in looks, but in personality. I always make sure to leave a great impression and stamp my mark on that person’s memory.

Do you sometimes feel pressure to maintain a certain weight, or look a certain way?

Yes, because in this industry it’s all about having the best body and maintaining it. If not, the next younger, pretty girl with the fit, nice or curvaceous body will take your spot—quick.

You come across as someone who has a grip on her own style—who doesn’t adhere to trends. What fashion tips do you have to offer to girls out there?

I’m actually a trend-setter. I love fashion in every sense. My way of dressing varies, because I always switch it up. Rihanna is my fashion icon, so I feel I always have to keep up with her. She knows what’s in and hot!

If you’re down to your last dollars in your fashion budget for the month, what do you tend to invest in…accessories, hair or makeup…or clothes?I invest in hair, because I’m obsessed with weave and my hair always being on point! When my hair is done, I feel so brand-new and invincible.

How does Hencha Voigt define beauty?

I define beauty by first having a good heart inside and out, which is being a good person. Second, having a bomb ass personality, meaning you are your own person—kind, outgoing and original. Third is having a good body, which anyone can obtain if they eat healthy and stay in the gym. And last is the superficial part—which is a pretty face and how you carry yourself as a person and lady—meaning your hair, nails, make-up—if you like. Always looking clean and nicely done.

Do you feel beautiful?

I feel blissfully gorgeous. [Laughter] That’s more than beautiful!

From Young Berg, to DJ Khaled, Meek Mill and Rick Ross, you’ve played the lead and the feature model in several hip-hop videos. There are very few rappers who have not been chastised for the portrayal of women in their videos. Do you have a certain criteria in terms of what you will do or won’t do? Do you examine a song’s lyrics for example, before deciding to take part in the video version of the song?

First, I don’t do usually do videos if I’m not cast [as the] lead or feature [model]. There’s no point of being in it if that’s the case. Me being in videos helped put my name out there in the industry. Yes, I feel some type of way about video models being called “video hoes” or such sort of disturbing names, because I know my worth and I am way far from being that. It’s a job to me—just like some people get out of bed and go to their 9 to 5 job every day. This is how I eat and I also struggle to make ends meet. We all got to eat. Not all video models think like me; a lot of them do misbehave and act non-lady-like, and that’s where the stereotype is coming from. But like I said, I will stand for all the models like me. Not all of us have a bad image. People need to quit with that crazy, stereotyping issue.

What would you say are some of the pitfalls in the modeling business?

You have to be a really strong woman to survive in this business, because you will get f__ over multiple times—just because you are a pretty face. People will f___ with your money and it’s a 50/50 percent chance that you’ll always get booked because there is always somebody new and popping coming up in this game. So to always stay on top, I’m always on point—never slacking. I’m very diverse; I don’t only do videos. I’m a published commercial model, a fitness model, a host and an actress. Hollywood will soon be hearing my name.

If you could give the Hencha of say, three to five years ago, some advice, what would you tell her?

I would say to go mainstream and to stay away from urban modeling because there is more money and work in mainstream.

The classic movie actress Susan Hayward, who started off as a model was quoted as having said: “You aim at all the things you have been told that stardom means–the rich life, the applause, the parties cluttered with celebrities. Then you find that you have it all. And it is nothing, really nothing. It is like a drug that lasts just a few hours, a sleeping pill. When it wears off, you have to live without its help.” What are your thoughts on this?

This is the realest thing I’ve ever heard. She said it the way it is. The dream really stops at the door—in other words. It’s almost like a fake dream and lifestyle and if you don’t wake up from it, you might ruin your life forever. You got to maneuver quick and know what your next move is—or you’ll fail.

Are you opposed to doing reality TV?

That is definitely on my bucket list.

When you sit there and consider all of your accomplishments in life, which gives you the biggest source of pride?

I have accomplished a lot, but I am not even close to what I [want] to accomplish, so I can’t even [rank my accomplishments] yet. You’ll just have to put that question on pause and wait. [Laughter].

Photo Credit: True Colors Digital

What have you learned about friendship so far in life?

You really have no friends in life, but your family. Friends are always envious and jealous. They slow you down and always want a piece of the pie you worked hard for without even giving ten percent of themselves in it.

You participated at the Miss Haiti International pageant last year, in Paris France. How did you like that experience?

It was amazing—the best experience by far, and I don’t regret anything about it…First time I’ve ever been to Paris and [all] I can say is [it’s] an amazing city. It was a great experience and opportunity. I made a lot of cool friends and visited an amazing country I had never been to. If I had to redo it again, I would and actually become Miss Haiti Universe next time. I didn’t take it so seriously; it was mostly fun to me. I know exactly what it takes to be any Miss now. I cried and laughed through the whole pageant; it wasn’t easy at all. I salute any Miss that has made it to the Number One spot because representing your country and nation as a young woman is very prestigious and difficult.

Are you and your parents close?

Yes, I love my mother and father. They are the best, they love me for me and never doubted me.

Are they proud of you?

They are my Number One fans and always have my back—no matter what!

What are your thoughts on natural hair versus chemically processed hair?

My thought on hair period, is do what makes you look good in the most natural way possible. Don’t go overboard, but be unique. If you’re going to wear you’re natural hair, rock it! If you’re going to wear weave, rock it! They all look amazing. I look good both ways and love them both!

Your fans follow your every move, and hang on to your every postings on social media. Some, it seems, even live vicariously through you. Where do you think all that fascination stems from?

It’s because I set my own trends and never care about critics or opinions. I live my life freely and live for myself. I make myself happy. I don’t care about society, rules and laws. They see it so they live carelessly free through me. I’m the realest it gets. [Smiles and winks]

Were you always that way? As in, did you always have that don’t-care-what-they-say attitude or is it something that developed as a result of an experience or string of experiences. I think for some of us out there, who do care what others think, wonder all the times about people who don’t care about what others think, and wonder how they got that way.

Yes, I was always that way. When you are the center of attention everywhere you go growing up—up ’til now, people talk and most of the talk is negative. I can care less about negative talk, because they don’t pay my bills or help me with my dreams. Any kind of talk to me is good, because I stay relevant and never die. Something like a legend. People wish they can walk a mile in my shoes because I’ve seen been done things they will never live to do or see.

It seems to some of your fans that the past year has brought a mellower Hencha Voigt. To what can this slight change of direction be attributed to?

Yeah, because life and its experiences mature you. I can’t stay wild and crazy forever; life has a way of taming its horses…I was the wild horse in this case. Traveling the world and meeting different people, and going to top official business meetings turned me into a business woman, and in business you have to keep the crazy out the door. I guess we live and we learn.

Do you have a favorite designer?

No. I love fashion broadly. I mix and match designers. If it’s dope—and in my taste—I’ll rock it—no matter the designer or the price.

You attended St. John’s University. Do you ever think about going back to school?

Yes, I do! I actually was thinking about that today! I am going back for forensic science. I love those crime shows! They influenced me to go back.

When was the last time you went to Haiti?

I go every month. My father always owned an airline. If you guys go to Haiti, go on HaitiAviation. Best experience ever!

Do you have any regrets?

Never have regrets; always a lesson!

A great number of models widen their brands. What are your plans in that arena?

I’m planning on being on the big screen. Acting is in my favor right now, because I’ve met many big name directors and they’ve proposed it to me many times. I’m actually in acting school right now. I’m tryna be the next Kim K: on screen, with my own clothing line, show, perfume etc. I’m on my way to the top!

So, you’re interested in widening your brand. If you were writing a book right now, and if you were basing it on a particular principle, what principle would it be?

It would be about society, especially the Haitian society. And the dos and donts. Who is society to tell you what is right or wrong! I would write a book about my life and how I did whatever the f__ I wanted and succeeded off of that.

Connect with Ms. Voigt on Twitter @HenyVBaby and follow her on Instagram

[Photo Credit: C. Varela (Flapper Boudoir photos); Beach shot: James Cossna Photography; motorcycle pic via Instagram]

In the world of modeling in Paris, few make necks crane longer than Carl Jaro. Jaro was born in Port-au-Prince and immigrated to France nineteen years ago—at the age of seven. He was discovered by a Jamaican modeling scouting agent, while attending a beauty pageant in the Caribbean.

Still based in France, Jaro’s modeling career has brought him to 37 countries, including England, Italy, and South Africa, and most delightfully of all, his native land. He’s participated in modeling campaigns for such brands as Elektrod, Adidas, H&M, Favette Natco, and Men by Men.

Carl Jaro doesn’t want to be just another well-sculpted guy model. Acting interests him a great deal, and to that end, he’s starred in the British film The Love of My Life, Le Choix de Ma Mère, shot in Haiti, and Sous Le Soleil, shot in France.

What’s it like for a model of color in France?

It’s very difficult for a non-Caucasian model to be part of the scene. You have to know your strong points to really impose yourself [in the French world of modeling]. The modeling word is the same as it is in any other country. You have to have what it takes to get in, and a really good dose of will and patience. It’s a really difficult industry, as with any other sector. You don’t just get in, like you do in a grinding mill. You have to have the measurements and the beauty type of the moment. You also have to know the criteria changes each year.

How do you stay in shape?

[Smiles] Well, we’ll just say that working out is my big secret. As they say back home: “Mwen se yon gran manjè”—I’m a big eater. [Smiles]

What’s the biggest misconception non-industry people have about modeling?

People have the tendency to think that models are rabbits. And that they only eat salad.

But what’s the actual truth?

The reality is to simply control one’s proportions. Me, personally—I eat what I want. [Smiles]

What, in your eyes, makes a woman attractive?

A woman who’s capable of holding her own in the modern world, is to me, the type of woman I’d want to marry. [Smiles]

When you think of all the advice you’ve ever been given, which has proven to be the most helpful to your life?

I remember this saying of Martin Luther King: “We must learn to live together as brothers or we will perish together as fools”. This saying really helps me not to break down when things aren’t going right.

It’s important to a lot of people to be intellectually-challenged. How do you stay mentally stimulated?

Positivity. That’s how I keep my head firmly on my shoulders.

How do your parents feel about modeling?

In the beginning, it was complicated to make my mom, a very traditional Haitian, understand. But today, she says she’s proud of her baby—talking about me.

When was the last time you took a trip to Haiti?

In September 2013, for the second edition of Haiti Fashion Week.

What words of wisdom would you throw to an aspiring model?

Above everything else, learn to know yourself, in order to strengthen your best assets. Secondly, have confidence. For, regardless of what it looks like, the modeling world is a difficult field, especially when you don’t exude confidence.

When you’ve lived in Paris for most of your life, moving to New York can be grunting, even for a native New Yorker. Such was the cup of pretty boy model Luka Sabbat, when he relocated to the city where dreams are made true. There was the expected culture shock. “It was just kind of weird in the way people acted,” Luka remarks when drawing NYC and Paris side by side. “People gave hugs here—when I was kissing girls cheeks for years.”

Sabbat was only three years old when his German-British stylist mom and fashion designer Haitian dad hopped on over to Europe. Back in the USA, more than a decade later, the teen was walking down Greene Street when famed shutterbug Kevin Amato stopped him. Amato was on the brink of shooting the Hood by Air campaign and thought Sabbat was ideal. More such work followed. The modeling sensation eventually signed to the agency Re:quest.

Now barely eighteen, Luka is already being called an icon by trendsetting publications like Complex and Mass Appeal. He has worn the clothes of some of the hippest clothing brands. But mind you, he’s not planning on being a model forever. The skateboard-loving, kreyolicious lad has fashion in his platelets, and has taken a strong liking towards the industry. He doesn’t just want to wear clothes anymore. He wants to make them. He doesn’t want to just convey art; he wishes to someday to create art.

How are you doing today?

I’m good bread.

That’s great. What’s people’s reaction when they find out that you’re a model?

Girls love it. Dudes just ask me how [to become one]. So many people wanna be models. I don’t know why. It’s not for everyone. Some people have no look. But, whatever. Most people think it’s just cool.

​It’s not for everyone? Why do you say that?​

‘Cause being a model isn’t for everyone. Not everyone is good looking, and not everyone has a look. Period. Just because you shot for your little homies’ big cartel brand doesn’t make you a model. Stop it.

Do you think that lookism is just as big of a problem as the other isms?

Not sure what lookism is exactly, so let me not…

​Lookism is being judged and being discriminated against because of your looks…and just being looked at a certain way by others….​

Whatever, like lookism is sort of a problem. I can spot a lame real quick and decide if you’re lame, but like Fredo Santana said: “I can look at your swag and tell that you losing, nigga”—but some people have more to them than their clothes. But, [being] lowkey makes or breaks a person in the fashion world.

Say the word modeling to some and there’s this notion of countless parties, runway shows, and stuff like that. But what is it really like? Walk us through a day in the life of Mr. Luka Sabbat, model.

Well, there is a lot of that. I get to meet many people and designers. Fashion Week is great. I get invited to shows. Great seats, then after parties. Chain smoke throughout the night and find a girl to go home with. I’m taken now, but that’s how it was.

“Destructive”, “binge-filled”, “excessive” are some of the words that have been used to describe the modeling industry. How do you stay grounded?

The men’s industry is different from the girls. Many girls encounter sexual offers as I heard of many of them and it’s relatively corrupt, depending your position and who you’re signed to and whatnot, but the men’s is simple.

When was the last time you went to Haiti?

I haven’t been to Haiti yet, but going this summer—or soon—to visit some family.

Do you think that male models have it better than female models in terms of self-image?

Males definitely have a different image control. The media is sexist in a way. A woman’s image easily can be changed and is more sensitive. But, as a man, to a lot of girls I’m candy. Many girls I’ve been with were solely with me because I was a model and s__ like that.

​Wow. How long did it take you to figure out that certain girls were trying to be with you because you’re a model?

I mean, when just last year, some girls just told me, without my money or so-called “cyber fame”—I’m just a regular-ass boy. For some reason, girls are just attracted to men that have a name for themselves…or a “cool” title.

Have you since then developed a test to determine whether someone is trying to be with you out of love, or out of interest, or whether they want you to be the candy on their arm?

No tests though—just vibes. I can definitely tell. I love talking to girls who have no idea who I am nor what I do.

What makes a girl attractive?

[A] genuinely fun girl. knows when to act, knows when to step up for herself, loyal, not f__ing annoying. I mean just a bit annoying. I mean…just enough annoying. It’s only human…

[ Photo: Via Instagram; Street photo YoungJun Koo; Supreme photo via @livedopeness ]

Luka Sabbat on Instagram | Luka Sabbat on Twitter | Click Here to Visit the Luka Sabbat Website |

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Wilnor Tereau has always wanted to be a physical therapist. He may even become one in the future, but for now, he lives for modeling. He walks down the streets, and he gets admiring stares. It wasn’t always that way. As a pre-teen, he moved to the United States to join his father in Chatham, Massachusetts. He was teased mercilessly for his dark skin. It was a trying time. He had lost his grandmother in his hometown of Ganthier, Haiti—and there he was in a foreign environment where he couldn’t speak the language. “Chatham at the time was a Lilly white town,” he recalls. “I attended middle and high school. I was the only black student in school. I was often teased for being Haitian and black. At school, I was a good student, and I excelled at soccer. After graduated high school, I travelled and attended college where I majored in exercise science.”

Photo Credit: Anthony Grassetti

Kreyolicious: In a previous interview, you talked about how you were bullied at school for being dark-skinned. How did that affect your self-esteem?

Being bullied affected me a great deal. I felt inferior, unintelligent, unattractive. And there were times I would cut classes to avoid the bullying. I became unfriendly and would sit alone during breakfast and lunch.

What did you learn from that whole experience?

I’ve learned that bullying is wrong. It hurts and it may lead to depression—and even death—if not properly managed.

Kreyolicious: How did you break into the modeling industry?

Well, a good friend of mine who models was attending a Puma casting, and I just happened to go for the ride. However, the casting directors convinced me to try out. About a week later, I got a call that I was booked for the ad and the rest was history.

Kreyolicious: How do you take care of yourself between photo shoots and modeling assignments?

I exercise on the regular, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. Good hygiene is essential. I treat myself to a facial, manicure and pedicure. I drink a lot of water for hydration. Sleep is very important. In the words of Diddy, you have to preserve your sexy. [Laughter]

Kreyolicious: And may we ask how you stay in shape in general?

In general, I do a lot of cardio, jogging, biking, dancing, climbing and boxing. I also do strength-training, and play some soccer when I get a chance.

Kreyolicious: What has been the highlight of your modeling career thus far?

Having been able to work with some of the top designers in the industry, from fitness, fashion, and commercials.

Kreyolicious: There’s nothing like wisdom from someone who’s been there. What sort of advice would you give to someone, a male model—trying to break into the industry?

My advice to young male models trying to make it in the industry. Be professional, be open minded, ambitious, this industry is cutthroat , it could make you or break you. And be ware with phony photographers, always make you check out their websites and that they’re credible.

Kreyolicious: You were a star soccer player! Do you still play?

[Laughter] Yes, I still play soccer—although not as much as I used to.

Kreyolicious: Sometimes even our closest friends don’t know us all the way. What would people—even your most intimate friends—be surprised to know about you?

[Laughter] Great question. I have been waiting for the longest time now to be asked this question… Most of my friends and family don’t know that I was born prematurely and actually passed on and came back to life. I’m afraid if I tell them, they’ll freak out. [Also] I love to sing.

Kreyolicious: What traits do you look for in a girl?

Someone with a great personality. Great smile…intelligent, ambitious and must not take life too seriously, because it’s so short. Have a little fun…sex appeal, be confident and take good care of herself.

Kreyolicious: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“You’re the captain of your ship. You’re in control of your life. In the end, it’s what you make of it”. From my good friend Boston based fitness trainer, Jerry Carballo…

Kreyolicious: Do you read a lot?

I do enjoy reading.

Kreyolicious: What was the last good book you read?

I do enjoy reading, the last book I read was Peak and Valleys…

Kreyolicious: What’d you learn from it?

I learnt that you cannot take success for granted. Being at the top does not mean you’re safe. You will have to work much harder to remain on top.

Kreyolicious: You’re very much into philanthropy.

Yes. I’m involved in philanthropy. I traveled a couple times a year to Haiti to volunteer my time. I often go to the villages and or impoverished cities to raise awareness. I do workshops with the kids and adults as well. I teach them about fitness, healthy eating and [bring them] school supplies. I’m currently working on a toy drive for my next trip. I’ve met many kids from an orphanage called Maison Kè Kontan. I fell in love with them. [Laughter] I thought I would help out.

Kreyolicious: What are some of your career plans?

Continuing my hard work as a model, breaking into the acting industry, education is extremely important to me, so it’s also in my plan to further my education. I also plan to continue volunteering and raise awareness in Haiti and other parts of the world.

CLICK HERE to follow Wilnor Tereau the model on TWITTER!

[Main photo: Anthony Grassetti; all others provided by subject]

The youngest of five siblings, Diana Gaitirira was born in New York but moved with her family to Florida when she was a pre-teen. Then, it was Maryland for college and cactus-friendly, stucco architecture-filled New Mexico, following graduation. Gaitirira plays Tammy Fraser on the breakout show “The Night Shift” on NBC. One of her next projects is Hate from A Distance, a short that has the Civil Rights Movement as its backdrop. She’s also had roles in the films Not On Board, and Terrible Angels.

The daughter of Haitian parents, Gaitirira is the CEO of her own film production company Cheza Jouer Films. Its first production is Sandals Worn Backwards, a documentary about Kenya’s history.

K. St. Fort: Were you the type of kid who did monologues when you were home alone?

I was always performing for my family and friends…singing—even though I have a horrible voice—and dancing. From pretending to be Michael Jackson to mimicking actors I saw on television.

K. St. Fort: Were you in any theater or stage plays in high school or in college? If so, how did that go?

I did a few performances at my local church and school and I loved it but I never thought I would participate in acting at this level or pursue acting as a career.

K. St. Fort: What’s the best thing about being an actress?

I get to portray a variety of characters and create my own back-story for each role I play.

K. St. Fort: You recently made the transition from a chemically-straightened style to a natural style. When you first made the transition, what are some challenges that you had to face?

This is actually my second attempt at being natural. I did the “Big Chop” around 8 or 9 years ago and had no clue on how to take of my hair. The most frustrating part was finding and using the right products. Hair companies weren’t accommodating back then as they are now, so I was at a loss. However, I took the plunge again around 2 1/2 years ago and I am really enjoying my decision.

K. St. Fort: What have you learned from taking care of your hair that you’d like to pass to others who are considering doing the same, or who have already made the transition?

I think it’s important to know your curl pattern and type—low porosity vs high porosity—in order to know which products and routine will help you manage your hair.

K. St. Fort: What’s it like being on the show “The Night Shift”?

Although the hours were long, it felt like a dream! It was ironic we actually filmed during the graveyard shift/night shift hours.

K. St. Fort: When you first auditioned, were you nervous? Did you think you would cop the role?

Yes! I like to take deep breaths and try to stretch out my jaw muscles before I enter the room. I didn’t think I got the role at the time of my audition. Because I’m fluent in American Sign Language, I tend to pick up on a lot of facial expressions and non-verbal cues, from others, but this skill is wasted in auditioning rooms. Most directors audition people for several hours until the point of exhaustion so usually when I enter the room, I most often get cold expressionless stares.

K. St. Fort: You were always on the thespian track, or have you explored or considered other careers prior?

I have only started pursing acting professionally for the last 7 years. Before then, I originally wanted to go into sports medicine, but fell in love with Deaf Culture and American Sign Language and strayed off into the interpreting track.

K. St. Fort: Do you ever wonder about the roads not taken?

No. I only do things that I am passionate about and I have no regrets.

K. St. Fort: Do you visit Haiti often?

Unfortunately, I have never been to Haiti but plan to go. I would love to go and volunteer with the Deaf community in Haiti. I know they use a derivative of American Sign Language and I would definitely be able to pick up their dialect with some time and exposure.

K. St. Fort: That’s an awesome plan!…If the Oxford people were putting a dictionary together, and they came up to Diana Gaitirira to ask for her input on what the definition should be…what would you answer?

Beauty means different things to each of us but for me, it’s the things that I see that take my breath away. It’s the wrinkles around the eyes of an elderly woman whose seen so much of life and is forgotten. It’s the toothless grin of a mischievous toddler that’s giggling at the funny faces I’m making. It’s the sun coming out after it’s rained all day. Beauty is in all of these things for me because in those rare, brief moments I realize that simplicity is the most beautiful thing of all.

K. St. Fort: And if Diana Gaitirira was one of the entries in the dictionary?

I like to say that I am an enigma, wrapped in a riddle, but I’m not. I am an open book with an interesting cover that invites you to flip through the pages. I will draw you in from the first few pages, take you on an emotional roller coaster, then leave you breathless at the end of my story.

K. St. Fort: Ooh, ah! What’s it really like in Hollywood?

The entertainment industry is difficult, unfair, and competitive. It is also fun, exciting, and beautiful–as is everything in life.

K. St. Fort: Do you eventually want to explore films? Or do you see yourself doing mostly television?

I have already done some independent films and I enjoy doing both television and film. My goal would be to get a recurring role on a television series.

CLICK HERE To Follow Diana Gaitirira On Twitter | CLICK HERE To Visit Her Production Company’s Website | CLICK HERE To Visit Her Website |