From opening for Giorgio Armani to landing her contract as brand ambassador for L'Oreal Paris, Maria Borges is one of the world's most in-demand models
Determined, unwaveringly optimistic and captivating from the get-go, the model-of-the-moment is a force to be reckoned withBorn and raised in Angola during the civil-war, 26-year old model, Maria Borges has had a challenging journey to reach the top of her game. At just 17, she entered the Elite Model Look Contest in Angola, finishing in the top 10. Maria was spotted by a local modelling agency who went on to place her in Portugal.
So, off to the Big Apple she went. 'It wasn’t easy. I flew by myself, it was cold, I left everything behind, and I couldn’t even speak English. At the time, the agencies were worried and basically said if we get positive feedback from our clients then it could work, but otherwise I’d be going home. So, I did everything I possibly could to make it work.'
Signing with top agency IMG in 2015 , walking 17 catwalk shows in her first season , bagging a Givenchy campaign and walking the runway for Victoria's Secret five years in a row , it’s safe to say Maria’s career is going pretty well. Tenacious as ever, she grafted for three years to get booked by Chanel before landing her contract as brand ambassador forin 2017. 'This was the "wow" moment, it made all the years of hard-graft and struggle so worth it.
Having lost her mum at just 11, Maria credits her older sister with helping her stay focused. 'She has such a strong work ethic and will do everything and anything to make sure I’m well and doing what I love.' Before Maria started modelling, she dreamt of becoming a medic. 'I didn’t get the chance to finish college and modelling came along as a new opportunity. I was able to buy a house, become the breadwinner of the family, and even do community projects back in my home country.
Contemplating her journey so far, Maria notes how much modelling has evolved. 'In the past two to three years, there has been a huge change. The industry is more inclusive, there are more opportunities for everyone and more respect between the clients and models. I’m glad I joined when I did, because so many people before me dreamt of this moment.' In the world of beauty, Maria praises the ever-increasing foundation ranges, which make finding your true shade possible.
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