A Gabonese model in Shanghai
Dorine X Mboumba, originally from Gabon, is an international model who walks the catwalks of fashion capitals from Paris to Cape Town. She regularly takes part in Fashion Weeks, making a name for herself in the African and European fashion worlds. But Dorine isn’t just a model, she’s also a determined entrepreneur and a caring mother.
Her modeling adventure began in Shanghai. After graduating from high school in Gabon, Dorine received a scholarship to study in Togo. Although she was already dreaming of becoming a model, she didn’t feel confident enough to pursue this path. However, a chance meeting with a friend encouraged her to audition for the Shanghai World Expo. Against all odds, she was selected as one of the twelve Africans who would represent the continent at this global event. This success marked the start of a flourishing career.
A model in demand in Africa’s fashion capitals
After Shanghai, Dorine returned to Togo to finish her studies. But she didn’t stop modeling. She travels throughout West Africa to model at various events. She criss-crossed countries such as Benin, Ghana, Niger, Senegal and Guinea Conakry, discovering not only fashion but also local cultures. These experiences broadened her vision of the world and transformed her identity, turning her from Gabonese to Pan-African.
In 2013, Dorine returned to Gabon for an internship, but her passion for fashion caught up with her. She was soon in demand for events in other countries, including FIMO – Festival international de la mode au Togo, FIMA – Festival international de la mode africaine and Dakar Fashion Week. Dorine then decided to devote herself entirely to fashion, with a series of catwalk shows, photo shoots and advertising campaigns. Although she was represented by international agencies between 2018 and 2022, Dorine continues to work freelance, especially in Africa, where relationships and experience play a crucial role in securing contracts. In fact, she secures almost 70% of her contracts herself, thanks to her own network and determination.
Model and entrepreneur
But Dorine doesn’t stop there. Passionate about fashion, she wrote a book, Shanghaï et moi, to share her journey and advice with aspiring models. She also created the “Parlons Mode” program on Instagram. She developed Twindi, a brand of stickers designed to promote Gabonese identity, as well as a line of jewelry featuring the map of Gabon. She is now embarking on a new adventure: becoming a casting agent. She will be responsible for selecting models for brands at the next Fashion Week.
Dorine X Mboumba is much more than just a model. She’s a multi-talented entrepreneur, an influential voice in African fashion, and an inspiration to young people across the continent.
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