Naomi Janumala is not just another face in the fashion world. She’s a symbol of change, challenging traditional beauty standards and making waves on international runways.
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Born and raised in Mumbai, Naomi Janumala comes from a family of entertainers. Her father, Jimmy Moses, and her uncle, the legendary Johnny Lever, are both renowned comedians. However, Naomi carved her own path. She found her calling – modelling – at 16 and has never looked back since.
Despite facing challenges in the Indian fashion scene, where she was often asked to leave auditions due to her skin tone, she remained undeterred. Makeup artists would use products meant for fairer models, and her photos were often lightened. In 2017, she moved abroad to seek a more inclusive environment.
This would be a turning point in her career.
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Naomi’s big break came when she became the face of Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty campaign. She proudly represented her brown skin, challenging the industry’s long-standing biases. In an interview, she said, “I got the Fenty campaign because of me, not because I’m someone’s niece,” quoted TOI.
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Naomi soon became a favourite among top fashion houses. She walked the runway for Burberry during London Fashion Week in 2023, where she walked with her natural hair and minimal makeup, and was part of their Spring 2024 campaign. She also graced the Dior Pre-Fall 2023 show in Mumbai.
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Naomi’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned brands such as Alexander Wang, Adidas, American Eagle, Levi’s, H&M, Nike x Nordstrom, and Opening Ceremony x Disney.
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Naomi’s journey from facing colourism in India to becoming an international model serves as an inspiration for us all. Kudos to her!