From playing table tennis at the national level at a young age to striding down international catwalks today, Aphile Carter was always destined to win. The 22-year-old international model says the highlight of his career thus far was walking for Yves Saint Laurent, one of the biggest high fashion brands in the world, in 2021. Laurent’s collection for Paris Fashion Week was photographed on an island in Venice, Italy, in what he describes as “a beautiful, life-changing moment”. Locally, Carter enjoyed working with the MaXhosa team. “As a proud Xhosa, it was an honour to see their behind- the-scenes process and Laduma Ngxokolo in action – it was inspiring. I also enjoyed working with Balmain when they launched their store at Sandton City Diamond Walk.” Carter started modelling in high school, doing photo shoots with local photographers for fun. It made him feel more confident and liberated, and every time he posted the pictures on social media, a great response would be received. Eventually, modelling agency scouts noticed and advised him to consider professional modelling. HIS BIG BREAK CAME IN 2020 WHEN FASHION DESIGNER QUITERIA KEKANE INVITED HIM TO WALK IN HIS CAPE TOWN MEN’S FASHION WEEK SHOW
AND RECOMMENDED HIM TO INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES.
THIS LED TO AN INVITATION TO VISIT LONDON FOR THE VOGUE MAGAZINE PHOTOSHOOT THAT LAUNCHED HIS INTERNATIONAL CAREER.
Aphile Carter with his friends during graduation
“My experience in the modelling industry has been both challenging and fulfilling. Being a high fashion model is no bed of roses, as the industry can be cutthroat. However, because I grew up being bullied and picked on because of my appearance as a child, I learned how to have a thick skin at a very young age. It helped me persevere despite challenging moments and gave me confidence and self-esteem.” The UJ strategic communications and journalism graduate grew up in Eldorado Park, a township south of Johannesburg, known for its drugs and gangsterism. Despite this, he had the best childhood and made the best memories growing up, says Carter. “When Liesl Laurie, also from Eldorado Park, won the Miss South Africa competition in 2015, it was eye-opening. I realised we are more than the media portrays us to be. Liesl’s win helped me become more fearless in the pursuit of excellence. Since then, I have been dedicated to showing people that Eldorado Park produces greatness. I will continue to fly the flag as high as possible to inspire young children from the same background as me.”
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ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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