Hooks Magazine - September "FASHION" Edition
Photos: Wolney Bruno Alves - @brunopixel.fr
Model and Make: Alessandra Campbell - @camp.alessandra_
Look: @ivypark
Shoe: @renecaovilla
Marketing and Design Director: Matheus Lopes - @mathlopes
Editor-in-chief: Matheus Hooks - @directorhooks
Alessandra Campbell, a young black and transgender model, shines on the cover of the September "FASHION" edition of Hooks Magazine International. A stunning photo captured in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower during a Parisian night frames our star with an aura of elegance and empowerment.
Alessandra shared with us the beginning of her career, which started less than 2 years ago. She overcame self-imposed barriers and decided to enter the world of fashion, even in the face of stereotypes and prejudices. Campbell's mission is to break taboos and standards in the fashion industry. She strives to represent and empower black and transgender women, filling a gap that is still evident in the industry.
She faced challenges such as the language barrier and the lack of representation in her modeling journey. However, her determination keeps her focused on overcoming these obstacles and paving the way for future generations of black and transgender models.
Alessandra Campbell is an example of determination and empowerment in the fashion industry. Her presence is an inspiring reminder that the beauty of women is diverse, and inclusion is essential for the evolution of this industry.
CHECK OUT NOW EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:
1. Alessandra, can you share with us how the beginning of your career as a model was as a young black woman?
Well, this is the beginning of my career as a model. It all started just under 2 years ago when I did a test shoot for a friend in her store. Since then, something that had been dormant in me was awakened. Because I'm shy, I always avoided exploring this world. I created barriers in my head, thinking it wouldn't be possible due to my curves, the industry's required stereotypes, being a black and transgender woman. But thanks to the evolution of the times we live in, the inclusion of different body types and genders gave me motivation and strength to enter the field. So, I came to live in Paris, the fashion capital, to explore more about this industry.
2. How did the idea of embracing a look inspired by Beyoncé for the Hooks Magazine cover come about?
Well, the idea of going for this look came from a post on my muse Beyoncé's social media, who, luckily for me, is a symbol of representation for us, black women. Fortunately, some of the outfits she wore during the Renaissance World Tour are from her Ivy Park collection. When I saw this outfit, I was enchanted, and when I confirmed that it was from her brand, I thought, "Wow, this dress against the Parisian nights and the lights of the Eiffel Tower would look incredible for the cover of Hooks Magazine."
3. What taboos do you wish to break through your career as a model?
These days, there's a lot of talk about inclusion, but there's still a lack of it in the fashion world. When you look for references of black transgender women in the fashion industry, they're scarce. I know we're making progress, but we still have a long way to go. Currently, we have one transgender representative in the industry, Valentina Sampaio, who serves as a role model and makes us believe that we're capable. However, we need much more than just one representative to truly achieve this inclusion. I'm determined to dive headfirst into breaking this exclusion and filling the gap as the Brazilian black transgender model in the fashion industry.
4. How do you see your career contributing to showcasing the beauty and empowerment of black women?
My decision to enter the world of fashion also came with the intention of bringing more inclusion, breaking stereotypes, and standards. I believe that empowering black women in the fashion industry is essential to make it more inclusive. When searching for references, we shouldn't limit ourselves to just one or two but instead seek diversity in colors, genders, and body types. After all, the beauty of women is diverse. I see this lack on my social media, in the numerous heartfelt messages from many women who consider me an inspiration. They claim to feel lost when searching for references and even feel inferior for not identifying with the limited or standardized representations currently available. When they discover my work, they feel more included and represented, and that makes me very happy. I hope to reach many more women with my presence in the fashion industry.
5. What challenges have you faced throughout your journey as a model?
It's challenging to be in another country without speaking the native language fluently, relying solely on basic English skills. Limited communication can be a hindrance, especially when you're seeking opportunities. Nowadays, there's a lot of talk about inclusion, but progress is slow. So, my body type is relatively new in the fashion industry, and people are hesitant about the new. Some embrace inclusion and provide opportunities, while others don't. I try to stay positive and not take things personally. I always strive to give my best in the work I do to showcase my potential and break the image people have due to the limited visibility that the media provides to society. I believe that if the media offered more visibility and we had greater representation, it would be less challenging.
6. Beyoncé is a significant inspiration for many people. How do you believe your career can inspire other young black individuals?
For everything we dream of, we need references to have a starting point and move forward with optimism, believing it's possible. My inspiration is no secret to anyone: it's Naomi Campbell. Not just for her beauty but also for a combination of qualities, as she uses her visibility to make an impact and bring hope to young people who dream of becoming models. I hope to contribute significantly, just like her, by bringing more visibility to my community, breaking stereotypes and taboos, showcasing the beauty and talent of transgender and black women, and instilling hope in the new generations. When they see my image, I hope they believe that they are also capable and that, in a way, I've paved the way for them to move forward if their choice is a career in the fashion industry.
7. What are your plans and goals for the future in the fashion and entertainment industry?
I hope to work with prominent brands and be in front of the lenses of the industry's most renowned photographers. In the future, I also aspire to build an admirable career to take my image worldwide. I came to Paris in search of knowledge and opportunities. I know they don't fall from the sky, so I'm fully committed to this path, studying other languages, refining my runway skills and expressions at a modeling school, and creating a presentable portfolio. I believe that knowledge and preparation are everything to solidify our dreams and, in doing so, pave the way for future opportunities.
