Reporter
matthew.chin@guardian.co.tt
She struts down catwalks, poses for high-end editorials, and models for television commercials. Of course, these are just a few things she does as a part-time model. An aspiring model and actress, Sophia Rose Hinkson will strut the New York Fashion Week (NYFW: The Shows) runway next month. She will model the clothing of two designers, Mila Hoffman Couture and Archie Brown, with the latter having already booked her for the Milan Fashion Week.
And if that is not enough, the youngster has also been contracted to model clothing for Macy’s 2024 catalogue. Hinkson, with only over a year of modelling and training, has ascended heights that many aspiring models have either hoped to reach or given up entirely. She is ten years old.
For last October’s Child/Teen Premium Edition for American Kid magazine, Fashion Republic Magazine, the editors had gravitated so much to the Trinidadian child that in putting together the publication they agreed that she would be its official cover girl. This was a very memorable experience for her as it was her first photoshoot. She recalled feeling awkward at first but getting comfortable in conveying her persona through her face and eyes with every camera shutter.
“It was really fun and I enjoyed it,” she said.
Locally, and most recently, Sophia modelled at the Grand Bazaar’s “The Grand Runway” Fashion Show last November 5. She attends Nelson Street Girls’ School but is transferring to Holy Name Prep this year to further her education. Although enjoying her time as a model, spending time in front of photographers and wearing the clothing of blooming designers, she desires to be a business owner.
“Currently, I would like to have my own beauty salon,” she said.
“Growing up I always loved fashion and beauty. I always enjoyed looking at models on Instagram and I wanted to do it as well. My grandparents realised how much I enjoyed it, and so, they got Uncle Richard Young to help me master my runway walk, and Aunty Michelle Borel (motivational speaker) to help me speak.”
Guiding her along her path to becoming a supermodel, production designer and runway coach Richard Young teaches her how to runway walk as a means of demanding onlookers to know who she is, and most importantly, where she’s from. She practices this technique for hours, perfecting the craft that models like her have had to embrace within a challenging and competitive environment. Outside of the glitz and glamour, some of her hobbies include singing, cooking, and drawing. She also enjoys dancing in the style of jazz.
In light of the many prestigious opportunities that are coming her way, Hinkson thanks the steadfast devotion and support of her family members in helping her achieve her dreams.
Rapid-fire questions
Q: Favourite drink?
A: Kool Kidz
Q: Favourite movie?
A: Harry Potter
Q: Favourite snack?
A: Sunshine
Q: Dream vacation?
A: Miami
Q: If you couldn’t be a model, who would you be?
A: An actor
Q: Tyra Banks or Naomi Campbell?
A: Tyra Banks