By: Theresa Moses
International Supermodel Maria Borges lit up Day 2 of the just concluded GTCO Fashion Weekend 2025 with a powerful masterclass that blended vulnerability, wisdom, humour, and fierce authenticity. Titled “The Model Mindset: From Getting Signed to Staying Relevant,” the session pulled back the curtain on the true ingredients behind her decade-long success on the world’s biggest runways.
Borges, one of the most influential African models of her generation, brought the audience into her world — a world that began in a small Angolan neighbourhood and grew into a global runway empire spanning Chanel, Dior, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford and nearly every major fashion house.
Her decade-long career has not only challenged beauty standards but actively reshaped them. In 2015, she made global headlines after walking the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show with her natural afro — a bold act of authenticity that became a cultural milestone for Black women worldwide.
Maria didn’t hold back as she shared the “real rules” that have shaped her career.
Rule 1: Embrace Where You Come From
Borges opened with a heartfelt reflection on growing up as an orphan in Angola who dared to dream beyond her circumstances.
“People think orphans cannot go far. I proved that even without my parents beside me, I could rise. My mom is watching from heaven — she is blessing this masterclass today” she said. “Every time I step on a runway, I represent Africa.”
This authenticity, she explained, became her greatest asset — not a limitation.
Rule 2: Your Mindset Is Your Real Currency
According to Borges, modeling is far more mental than physical.
She urged young talents to prioritize self-worth, discipline, and separating professional identity from personal life:
“Maria the model is a brand. But Maria at home is another character. Protect your mind. Protect your peace,” she cautioned.
Rule 3: Authenticity Wins — Always
Borges recounted her iconic 2015 Victoria’s Secret moment, where she walked the runway with her natural hair.
“Wearing my afro was like wearing a crown,” she said. “I didn’t do it to be bold. I did it to be myself. And the world embraced it.”
Since then, major brands have chosen her specifically because of her natural look.
She encouraged African models to embrace their heritage rather than dilute it:
“Our hair, our culture, our skin — that is our power. Celebrate who you are.”
Rule 4: Understand the Business Beyond Beauty
The supermodel broke down the importance of contracts, agencies, travel, etiquette and the politics of the fashion industry.
Stressing that relevance in fashion goes beyond beauty — it requires discipline, adaptability, and mentorship.
She shared the story of opening the Giorgio Armani Fashion Show in Milan — a moment that not only changed her career but helped shift representation on global runways.
She explained the responsibility that comes with success:
“If I do well, another sister gets a chance,” she said, emphasizing the need for collective progress.
Rule 5: Longevity Over Hype
Borges encouraged aspiring models to think long-term.
From overcoming language barriers to navigating agencies, Borges shared practical insights:
- Find someone who believes in your long-term career — a mentor or agent who sees beyond short-term wins.
- Start local, grow global — “Begin in your city, then your country. If the foundation is strong, the world will open.”
- Choose longevity over fast money — “When my agency asked what type of model I wanted to be, I said: long-term. That choice changed everything.”
She advised models to be consistent, kind, and strategic — qualities she believes matter more than temporary buzz.
“What you give, you receive. Kindness has taken me farther than beauty ever could.”
A standout moment came when she addressed a young woman who feared she was “too old” to start modeling:
“There is no age limit to dreaming. Believe in yourself first — the world will catch up.”
Rule 6: Don’t Just Be a Model — Be a Brand
Today, Borges is more than a runway star. She is Angola’s Tourism Ambassador and founder of The Star Management, a platform supporting emerging African talent.
She reflected on being invited to celebrate New Year with the President of Angola and representing the continent at international events:
Her vision is clear:
“I want the world to know Africa’s beauty — our people, deserts, our rivers, our culture. I use my platform to open doors for more African talent.”
Borges’ first-ever masterclass at the GTCO Fashion Weekend Day 2 Moved the Crowd.
Her final words left the audience inspired:
“Be brave. Take a chance. Be kind. And never forget where you come from and where you are going.”
GATMASH NEWS
…News That Drives Impact
For advert placements and business inquiries, kindly reach us via:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Tel/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
We value your voice! Share your stories, eyewitness reports, and contributions with us anytime:
📲 SMS/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
📧 Email: [email protected]
Visit us online: https://www.gatmash.com
