I was scouted at the young age of 16 while enjoying the Calgary Stampede. As I was casually munching on a corn dog, someone approached me and confidently stated, “You’re going to be a superstar.” At that moment, I was taken aback but intrigued by the possibility. However, being under 18, I had to wait before pursuing any opportunities. I began performing at small gigs in Calgary while also focusing on my football career, which was steadily gaining momentum.
The opportunity to walk for Gucci came unexpectedly in January when my manager, Michael, informed me about it. Initially, I was skeptical about my chances of landing such a prestigious gig. Nevertheless, I agreed to attend the show, and within a short period, I found myself on a plane heading for fittings. After a month of rehearsals and preparations, I was ready to showcase my walk for Gucci.
Being noticed by a renowned brand like Gucci was a surreal experience. I couldn’t fathom how I had captured their attention, but I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity. It was truly a blessing to be chosen for such a significant role, even though it felt like it happened effortlessly.
During the show, I appreciated how the designers encouraged models to infuse their walks with personality. My walk was inspired by the direction given by Demna, who suggested I embody the persona of an Italian mobster. Through rehearsals and adjustments, we refined my walk to match the character I was portraying, adding a unique touch to my performance on the runway.
Following the show, my walk gained viral attention, sparking discussions and shares across various platforms. The unexpected response caught me by surprise, especially when some viewers misunderstood the character I was portraying and criticized my walk style. It was amusing to witness the diverse reactions to my runway performance.
Reflecting on my runway look, I was adorned in a distinctive outfit that pushed me out of my comfort zone. The laminated jeans, striped polo, and oversized watch created a bold and unconventional ensemble that stood out on the runway. Despite the unfamiliarity of the attire, I embraced the opportunity to showcase a different side of fashion and style.
Overall, the experience of walking for Gucci was a memorable and transformative moment in my career. It allowed me to step into a character, showcase my unique walk, and leave a lasting impression in the fashion industry. The challenges and rewards of this opportunity have further fueled my passion for modeling, opening doors to new possibilities and exciting ventures in the future.
