I bring dignity to modelling.
My name is Aurore and I live in Rwanda. I’ve always loved watching models work and fell in love with what I saw. At 17 I modelled for fun but people didn't pay attention to me. The bosses were mean and treated us like objects.
One day after watching my friend being yelled at again, I decided to open an agency where models would be treated with respect. I watched how modelling agencies were run. I knew I had to work very hard to make it happen. I asked people with business experience for advice. I talked to other young people and models about my dream. Everybody encouraged me.
My parents always said I could make my dreams come true if I tried hard enough. So in July 2011 I opened my agency. Four months later, I launched Ikobe Modelling Company. It was an exciting but scary time. I’m proud that I was brave enough to work hard and follow my dreams. My business continues to grow and I can support myself with my own money. But what’s really great is that I’ve been able to hire other young people so they can support themselves too.
Girls, no matter what your dreams are, always remember to work hard, value other people, respect yourself and go for your dreams! I wake up happy every morning knowing I’m working to make a better future.
