Raw Model Management says it is working to reposition modelling as a recognised professional career path in Nigeria, as it continues to place Nigerian models on global fashion platforms.
Founded in 2017 by Onyemaechi Rapheal, Raw Model Management began as a small scouting initiative in Lagos. Over time, it has grown into an agency that connects Nigerian and African models to international fashion markets. The agency has placed talents with fashion houses including Dior, Gucci and Saint Laurent.
Rapheal, who serves as the agency’s director, said the work goes beyond identifying faces for runways and campaigns. According to him, the agency was created to build a professional structure for modelling in an environment where such systems were limited.
“Raw Model Management started on a small scale maintaining an outstanding commitment to discovering raw new faces, empowering and transforming them into international working stars,” Rapheal said.
The agency has worked with models such as Janet Jumbo, Daniel Awaridhe, Okiki Shodimu and Victoria Fawole, whose careers now span international shows and projects. However, Rapheal said that moving from Nigeria to fashion centres such as Paris or Milan remains difficult for many models.
He pointed to visa delays, weak labour protections and the absence of industry-wide rules as major barriers. These gaps, he said, affect contract enforcement and leave models exposed to poor working conditions.
“The lack of a formal regulatory framework for the modeling industry in Nigeria makes it hard to protect models, enforce contracts, and establish standardized practices,” Rapheal explained. “This contributes to exploitation, harassment risks, and unpredictable professional environments.”
Cultural attitudes also play a role. In many families, modelling is not seen as a viable career. This often affects parental consent and limits how long young talents remain in the industry.
“Negative societal perceptions of modeling in Nigeria sometimes make it harder for agencies to recruit and retain talent, and discourage parents from supporting their children’s aspirations,” Rapheal said.
To address these issues, Raw Model Management focuses on career planning and skill development. The agency says it prepares models for work beyond a single fashion season, including transitions within the industry.
“Our vision is to change the narrative of what modeling is in Africa,” Rapheal said. “We carefully scout, develop, and nurture our models, ensuring longevity all through different stages of their careers.”
Looking ahead, Raw Model Management plans to expand its role as a link between local talent and international demand. The agency says its long-term aim is to support systems that allow Nigeria to function as a stable source of global fashion talent.
