Model of the Week: Sokhna Niane is the Senegalese show sensation loved by Valentino
Sokhna was shot exclusively for MODELS.com by Jumbo Tsui, with styling by Evan Feng, production by Mac Zhou, hair by Issac Yu and makeup by Ling Yi Tai. Special thanks to Mickel Dato at DYC.
interview
Name:
Sokhna Niane
Agency:
IMM Bruxelles (Brussels)
Monster Management (Milan)
DYC (China)
Age:
22
Height:
181cm (5’11.5″)
Place of Origin:
Saly-Mbour, Senegal
Ethnic Origin:
Toucouleur
Birthsign:
Gemini
Instagram:
@sokhnaforreal
How discovered:
When I arrived in Belgium I made several steps to become a model. At that time, I thought why not try other things like styling. 6 months later, I met Carine Caillieret from IMMBXL at the south station of Brussels. She came to talk to me. I thought it was not possible because I was not expecting this opportunity at the station. After 1 year of research and demand, I finally had an agency and I will be able to realise my dream.
What was your first modeling job?
A two-day shoot for AF Vandevorst. I was not stressed, I was excited.
Favorite designer/brand/product:
I like all the brands I worked with. I could not answer that because I made 2 seasons.
What’s your beauty routine?
I use most of the products from Clarins for my skin.
Favorite modeling experience so far?
One of my favorite experiences was the video for Valentino because it was something new for me and I must say that I really enjoyed it. The team was really great and we had so much fun.
What would you be doing if you weren’t modeling? Or what do you want to do after modeling?
I worked in a sewing workshop in Senegal. I made drawings for them. I am interested in fashion so if I did not become a model I would be going to school of fashion to become a stylist. After modeling I would like to create my own brand.
Which brand would you really love to model for?
I don’t have only one favourite. But if I have to choose one, it will be Valentino. I’ve worked for them every season since I became a model. I love the energy from them and it’s nothing better than when you can work with a great team like this one is for me.
Some of your favorite things:
I like drawing, watching movies, do sports, shopping, cooking, reading and I really like adventure.
What are you listening to at the moment?
Kanye West, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Celine Dion. And music from my country too, like Wally Seck, Youssou Ndour, etc… I like to listen to music to relax.
Favorite movie(s) or TV show(s
Game of Thrones… but I prefer to read. My favorite book is “Une si longue lettre” by author Mariama Ba.
How was your life different 12 months ago?
My life compared to last year change because I am a model, this year I am realizing my dream. I go on a trip for work and I have great experience of being able to travel around the world to work, to meet new people for my job. I work-that it is one of the best experiences for me. It allows me to discover new places and to know new people in my field.
What always makes you laugh?
I was born to laugh! I need nothing and no one to have a smile on my face. That’s my nature.
Currently you’re obsessed with/about:
At this moment all that is in my mind is success in my career, and in all domains.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I receive lots of advice from my agent-e.g. it happens to everyone to make mistakes in life, the error is human. I listen to the advice and apply it as much as I can but I’m not faultless
