Do You Believe In Fate? This Model's Story That Led To The Runway
If you're into fashion and shopping, you're probably aware that H&M has a new collection coming out in collaboration with the French haute couture brand Balmain. The anticipated launch, which happens November 5, features British Afro-Caribbean model Jourdan Dunn in it's campaign.
Dunn, who became a teenage mom at the age of 19, was discovered at a local Primark in London at the age of 14 by an agent representative from Storm Models. Storm Model Management is the same model agency behind Kate Moss. And for those wondering, Primark is sort of like an H&M or Zara, only cheaper.
Mario Sorrenti/Balmain x H&M. Courtesy of E! Online
In an industry criticized for it's lack of diversity, Dunn has managed to find success, being the first black model to appear on the runway for Prada after more than a decade back in 2008. Her predecessor was none other than Naomi Campbell. Dunn's walked the runway for nearly every top designer including Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, and Jean Paul Gaultier to name a few.
Mario Sorrenti/Balmain x H&M. Courtesy of E! Online
If you know me you know that I don't believe in coincidences so Dunn being discovered on a 'random' day in a 'random' store, I contribute to fate. Now there are those who say you create your own fate, no such things as 'predestined'. Along those lines you'll also find the quote:
“Good things don’t come to those who wait. They come to those who work their butts off and never give up.”
Mario Sorrenti/Balmain x H&M. Courtesy of Hypebeast
In response I say this. Your moment of opportunity will come to you, what you came of it though is an entirely different story. The same opportunity can be granted 2 people, but their desire and hustle will determine what comes of that opportunity.
Mario Sorrenti/Balmain x H&M. Courtesy of Hypebeast
Dunn could very easily have thrown in the towel after she found out she was pregnant. Been depressed about life because her son battles sickle cell anaemia. But instead she walked a runway a mere 10 weeks after giving birth British Vogue discloses.
© H&M - Courtesy of Daily Mail
At the end of the day, you can only do so much, and there comes a point, either in the beginning (like in Dunn's case), during, or after you've been at it for years, when God steps in. I would argue that the Lord is with you all the time, but I'm talking of those breakthrough moments. However hard you've been at it, it's still God who grants you that moment.
Dunn never applied to America's Next Top Model, and with the show closing its curtains this December, neither can anyone else, however be encouraged in knowing that what God meant for you IS FOR YOU. No one else's success and opportunities can take that away. So keep your head high, your hope alive, and trust and believe. Your 'random' moment is just a moment away.
Be blessed!