A Saintly Ascension

Saint International up-and-coming model Barbra-Lee Grant was the subject of another Models.com: Of The Minute spotlight feature, where the Afro beauty — who’s signed to Trump Models, and who has wrapped several editorials for Wonderland Mag and Topshop — talked debuting for Alexander McQueen, her favourite labels, her idols, and her promising modelling career. AW Fashion shares the exclusive.

SO WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

I’m from Central Village, St Catherine, Jamaica.

HOW AND WHEN WERE YOU DISCOVERED? DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO PURSUE MODELLING?

I was discovered at my alma mater Cumberland High School by Deiwght Peters of Saint International Model Agency, and his assistant Andrew Mullings. They took digitals of me, Mr Peters interviewed me and afterwards he handed me an envelope and told me to hand it to my parents. And yes, modelling has always been my dream career for as long as I could remember, and I thank God and Mr Peters for making it a reality.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCES MODELLING SO FAR?

Honestly, every experience is my favourite, but they all stand out in different ways. Now that I have become an international model, another chapter has opened in my modelling career, where I get to work with amazing designers, stylists, and photographers.

You exclusively debuted at Alexander McQueen; tell us about that experience.

It was my first international runway show, and it was mind-blowing, splendid and exquisite. It was a tremendous honour walking for the legendary Alexander McQueen, where I also got to be recognised globally. All thanks to the amazing casting director Jess Hallett and stylist Camilla Nickerson.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM MODELLING JOB?

My dream modelling job would have to be walking the runways of the major fashion brands and doing major magazine editorials.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT MODELLING IN YOUR OFF TIME?

I love to hang out with family and friends and have a blast. I can’t leave out laughing because I love to laugh and to be the sunshine in someone’s life.

ARE THERE ANY DESIGNERS THAT YOU REALLY LIKE TO WEAR? HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

Absolutely! I love Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Balmain, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Prada, Miu Miu and Max Mara

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE THE MOST – FASHION OR OTHERWISE?

I absolutely admire Naomi Campbell, because apart from her beauty she is humble, caring, hard-working and a dedicated individual.