People Of Colour: Beauty Is As Bright As Our Planet!

In the TV and advertising industry, stereotypes are promoted heavily, even in our modern society. But People of Colour are so much more than the stereotypes that are associated with their race. And there is an increasing demand for diversity in the industry.

What does People of Colour mean?

In the 1960s, the term People of Colour reclaimed the negative connotations associated with anybody who wasn’t white and turned it into a positive term. They stood in solidarity against discrimination and created a community. People of colour is a general term; it refers to anybody who isn't white- some people decide to label themselves according to their specific race, for example people with African roots who refer to themselves as ‘black’. This isn’t necessarily to do with migration but instead with the colour of one’s skin. In a society where being white has become the norm, referring to someone as ‘non-white’ is marginalisation in itself. If you are a person of colour, it is likely that you will have experienced racism, due to the prominent racism that exists in our society.

The normality of young, slim, white models

In today’s modern world, people are still separated into their own groups- rich and poor or black and white- everyone seems to be opposites. In the 20th century there was a lack of representation of people of colour.When they did get involved in the industry, they would portray stereotypical roles of gangsters and troublemakers. As models , they were also limited with work. Modelling was mainly reserved for people who fit into Western beauty standards- white, slim and conventionally attractive. People of colour weren’t represented in the media. This reinforced the feeling of being different as there were no role models for them to follow.

Role models for future generations

If there is more diverse representation in the world of fashion and advertising, opinion changes. The influence that modelling agencies have has the power to change the world. A number of agencies and photographers have specialised in POC-models and strive for more representation in the industry. Women of colour are role models for young women across the globe. There are plenty of campaigns that celebrate people of colour by promoting natural beauty. Nowadays we are starting to see a more diverse range of models at every photoshoot .

Uniqueness counts!

Gucci turned 100 in 2021. Its designers are known for being visionaries - with eccentric views on fashion and casting . They were always searching for something extraordinary, trying to push the boundaries. The latest Gucci discoveries include the everyday beauty of ordinary people. They value authenticity to convey fashion messages and strive to use a diverse range of models to emphasise this naturalness. The casting element of the fashion and advertising industry focuses on uniqueness and picking the right model for each specific production . There has long been room in the modelling business for plus-size models, best-agers and models of all ethnicities. Anyone can be a model. Or, to put it in Andy Warhol's words: In the future everyone will be world famous for 15 minutes. Diversity in fashion is not just a box to fill, but it elevates the industry as a whole.

Are there modelling jobs for people of colour?

Yes, diversity is the new buzzword. Nevertheless, it is not a trend. Trends fizzle out and get replaced by new ones; diversity is here to stay. Models of colour show the advertising industry what diversity means. Adverts that have models who look like you make you feel seen, like you belong. It is important to promote this to every ethnicity, not just white people. There is a huge variety of jobs for people of colour as models, actors and other roles in the industry!

Diversity enriches!

Models can inspire people of colour to realise their potential. They present the message that internationality and diversity are not an obstacle, but an opportunity. PoC models enrich campaigns, by presenting beauty in many different genres . Starboxx has the right talent for your project with personality and authenticity. That is how to create a successful advert. Get in touch now and let us know what you’re looking for!

Do you want to become a model?

Register now with starboxx- online and free of charge! As a modelling agency, we are proud to offer you amazing opportunities. We strive to embody inclusivity and diversity in our directory- anyone can be a model so register today!