NEW ERA with : JONAH
Photographed by Nick Scaife. Styled by Marina German. Words by Charlie Newman.
2020 will be a year that marks the history books for many reasons. We are experiencing a pandemic of historic standards whilst simultaneously writing new history books for the future, welcoming diversity and equality for all. For the majority of us work has been a write off this year but nevertheless our minds have still been challenged and expanded. Covid-19 has demanded we pause to think on what really matters and the Black Lives Matter movement has forced us to question and examine how we live our lives, paving a way for a new and improved future.
You’ve been modelling for 3 years. What has been a career highlight?
So far I’d say my career highlight has to be walking the Vetements A/W20 show.
What do you enjoy about modelling the most?
The shine.
Travel comes hand in hand with working in fashion. Where has been your favourite place to travel to? What would you recommend our readers do/see/eat there?
I personally haven’t really been to many places abroad - only Paris, I’m currently here on my 5th trip working. I would definitely recommend going to a nice pizza place... I know it’s very basic but it’s good. But probably my favourite thing to do is ride the electric scooters through the late night in the city with my friends.
If you weren’t modelling what would you be doing?
There was no plan B. When I first started there was literally nothing else I wanted to do so I didn’t consider anything else back then. I’m just happy this path kind of worked and got some sort of success as it’s not easy for people my age to do something positive and worthwhile where I’m from.
Where and you have you been quarantining with?
At home with my mum and stepdad.
If you could choose one famous person to quarantine with, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Probably Christopher Nolan, he has made most of my favourite films of all time so I’d love to know what his new ideas are and what he’s writing up and possibly even be a part of it.
It’s very easy to get bogged down with the negatives of Covid-19, but what positives have you taken from this period?
I’ve been a lot more healthy during this time, mentally, spiritually and physically.
Lockdown has afforded us the time to pause and reflect. What have you learnt about yourself over the past few months?
I’ve definitely learnt that I can be way more on top of things in general than I have been if I just make time for it.
What are you most looking forward to post lockdown?
Cinemas reopening.
Only 9% of people would like to return to their former lives pre lockdown pre lockdown. What changes would you like to put in place in your life post lockdown?
I’m just gonna take more advantage of just going outside, to exercise, go for walks, meet friends etc.
On the topic of change, the Black Lives Matter movement is rightly changing the world one march and petition at a time. It’s been couple of weeks with a lot to process. How does this make you feel?
Yeah definitely, honestly I’m very proud and happy to see the amount of people from all backgrounds getting behind the cause. The key to a better world is unity so it’s a beautiful thing seeing literally anyone from any background or culture standing for what’s right.
The fashion industry may be celebrating diversity but its still has along way to go. From your own experience and knowledge, where would you like the industry to improve and change for the better?
Ummm I just think they need to push to hire not just models but designers, stylists, photographers, etc from different backgrounds. Literally every role in the industry can be played well by somebody of any skin colour or background.
Jonah appears courtesy of Xenia Models.
