Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE fashion model Nomaqhikiza Mokoni, is carving out an impressive career on the international scene.With over four years in the industry, she has worked with top brands and appeared in prestigious publications, establishing herself as a rising star in global fashion.
Noma’s journey into modelling began in 2021 after she was scouted in Cape Town, South Africa, where she had relocated in 2018.
Before stepping onto the runway, she worked in marketing, a career path she had been focused on until a chance encounter opened a door to a world she had not anticipated.
Growing up in Bulawayo, with Gwanda District as her rural home, Noma said her path into international modelling was one she had not envisioned.
“My journey has been a mix of hard work, unexpected opportunities and continuous learning. Growing up in Zimbabwe, I didn’t see many fashion models signed internationally and the industry was mainly pageant-focused.
Representation inspired me, I wanted to show young girls in Zimbabwe and across Africa that high-fashion modelling is possible and can be a full career,” she said.
Noma described the moment she realised modelling could become her passion.
“I wasn’t actively pursuing modelling at first and I never knew the industry existed in Africa. All I knew was pageant modelling.
Being scouted in 2021 was completely unexpected, but once I started, I realised I loved the creativity, storytelling and travel that comes with it.
“Being scouted in Cape Town was a complete surprise. I was focused on my marketing career at the time, but being approached by an agent opened a door I didn’t know I wanted to walk through.”
Family support has played a critical role in Noma’s success.
“When my family found out about my new passion for modelling, they were supportive but cautious.
Modelling isn’t a common career path in Zimbabwe, so they wanted to make sure I was safe and making informed decisions. Over time, they’ve been proud to see my progress,” she shared.
Breaking into international markets came with its challenges.
“The biggest challenges were breaking into international markets.
Navigating visa processes, which can be tricky and complicated, adjusting to new cultures and facing rejections just like in any other job.
Castings are like job interviews, with decisions based on your imagery or how you photograph with their products.
I overcame these challenges by staying persistent, learning the business side of modelling, being adaptable and understanding that I’m not always going to book every job – not because I’m not good enough, but because I’m not what they’re looking for at that moment.”
A highlight of her career came in June 2022, when Noma featured in Vogue Portugal’s “Coven” editorial.
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My first Vogue feature in June 2022 was unforgettable. Seeing my work in such an iconic publication was a dream come true. Also, being signed by other big agencies was a huge milestone.
Signing with agencies in Germany, New York, and Los Angeles meant my career had truly gone global, opening doors to opportunities I couldn’t have imagined.
“I never thought I’d travel to America or anywhere outside Africa, it felt impossible or reserved for only the fortunate,” she said.
Relocating to Los Angeles brought new opportunities and new challenges.
“Moving to LA was about stepping into one of the most competitive fashion markets in the world.
The biggest adjustment has been adapting to the fast pace, the constantly evolving industry, building new professional networks and exploring this part of the world. I expected competition, but I didn’t anticipate how diverse and interconnected the creative scene would be.
Opportunities are abundant, but so is the competition.”
Her move has given her access to major campaigns and collaborations with global brands such as Nike, The North Face and various beauty and active wear companies.
“LA has given me access to major campaigns, top photographers and global brands.
I’ve also done countless commercials for well-known brands, experiences I wouldn’t have had elsewhere because most of these brands are based in America.”
Despite her global success, Noma remains grounded in her African heritage, which she said shapes her approach to modelling and creativity.
“My heritage keeps me grounded. I carry my culture and values into my work, which helps me stay authentic in every space I enter.
Models from Africa bring diversity, creativity, and unique perspectives to the global fashion industry. We help reshape how beauty and storytelling are understood worldwide.
I maintain close ties with my family and friends, visit Zimbabwe whenever possible, and work with African creatives whenever I can. Staying connected to my roots is essential to my identity and my work,” she said.
She went on to offer guidance to aspiring models in Africa.
“Believe in yourself and put in the work. Learn the business side of modelling, protect your image, and surround yourself with supportive people.
High-fashion modelling is possible beyond pageants, and you can aim for the international stage.
It’s a real career, you can make a living representing brands, doing shoots and walking shows. It’s professional, creative and global.”
Looking ahead, Noma has ambitious plans to give back to her community and mentor the next generation of African models.
“I’m working on opening my own modelling agency to place Zimbabwean models internationally. I’m also starting a charity organisation to support less fortunate children in rural community schools by providing school essentials.
Both projects take time to register and set up legally, but I’m excited to make a meaningful impact in both modelling and community support,” she said.
