Angela Ayieko~ Plus Size Model
“I am a mother of three children. My firstborn, Shantel, is 12 years old, my second-born, Kenya, is 10, and my youngest, Africa, is just 6 months old. I didn’t start modeling as a child—I actually began last year. It’s not about the money for me; it’s about my community. There are so many talented people here who don’t know where to channel their skills, and I want to inspire them to step forward.
I particularly love plus-size modeling because it challenges the status quo. Many plus-size people shy away from modeling, but I want to change that narrative. My days are busy: I wake up at 5:00 AM, prepare Africa, get my older kids ready for school, and settle into my day. Africa sleeps until 8:00 AM and then comes back to me at 11:00 AM. When it’s time for me to walk the runway, someone else looks after her, but if she cries, I’ll breastfeed her. That’s life—you have to be hardworking to make it.
Breaking Barriers as a Plus Size Model
One challenge I face is that designers are often hesitant to create outfits for me. Maybe they worry the designs won’t turn out well, but I encourage them to push their boundaries. No one is perfect, and trying is what matters.
What I love most about my community is our togetherness. We always show up for each other in solidarity, no matter the challenge. Our engagement and support keep us united.
As a plus-size model, I know my journey isn’t easy. My legs aren’t used to fast-paced movements or turns, but I give it my all. I may not be perfect, but I’m determined to do it. Modeling has traditionally been for petite figures, but this time, I’m here to represent plus-size people and prove that we belong too.”
