Cornell McBride Jr., President and CEO of Design Essentials, a global leader in haircare, has arrived in Kenya for the first time, marking a significant step in the brand’s commitment to empowering women in Africa.
McBride’s visit coincides with the highly-anticipated Africa’s Next Super Model Grand Finale, that took place at Broadwalk Mall on Ojijo Road on Friday in Nairobi.
The event, a premier modeling competition in Africa, has gained prominence for its role in discovering and nurturing local talent, including participants from underserved communities like the Kakuma refugee camp.
Design Essentials, a key partner of the competition, has brought McBride to Kenya to demonstrate the brand’s dedication to uplifting women in the beauty and fashion industries.
In his address to the press, McBride highlighted the strategic importance of his visit and the partnership with Africa’s Next Super Model. “Our objective at Design Essentials is to empower women not just in Kenya, but across the entire African continent. We are committed to collaborating with local and international partners to help elevate emerging African talent, providing them with access to global brands and opportunities.” he said
McBride’s presence in Nairobi underscores a broader mission to inspire and support young African women aspiring to make a mark on the global beauty and fashion stage. By aligning with Africa’s Next Super Model, Design Essentials aims to create pathways for success, offering mentorship and visibility for aspiring models.
Joan Okorodudu, founder and CEO of Isis Models, the international agency behind Africa’s Next Super Model, praised McBride’s involvement, calling it a pivotal moment for her vision of female empowerment in Kenya and beyond. “Cornell McBride Jr.’s presence is a testament to the value of collaboration,” Okorodudu remarked. “It’s a huge boost, not only for the competition but for the broader goal of supporting African women to realize their full potential in the beauty industry.”
As the grand finale approaches, the excitement is palpable among contestants and organizers alike, with many viewing this collaboration as a springboard for greater visibility and opportunities for African models on the international stage.
Design Essentials’ involvement in Africa’s Next Super Model signals a promising future for the brand’s expansion into the African market, with an emphasis on creating sustainable impact and fostering long-term relationships with local communities.
The grand finale of Africa’s Next Super Model will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Broadwalk Mall, where the region’s top talents will showcase their potential in front of industry leaders, including international partners and scouts eager to discover the next big namesin modeling.