Long before he became a familiar face on the world’s most prestigious runways, Rodney Osei was a shy, slightly goofy boy growing up in Ghana. Modelling was never a childhood ambition—it wasn’t a dream he chased, but one that unfolded around him, as though he were living it in real time. That rare, unforced journey of self-discovery is exactly what distinguishes Rodney today, giving his presence on the runway a depth that extends far beyond fashion.
From closing a Saint Laurent show as an exclusive model to representing Ghana on stages from Milan to Paris, Rodney’s journey is as much about personal evolution as it is about breaking barriers. In each step, he carries not only garments, but the essence of a home anchored in peace and recharged in quietude.
As part of a generation of African models reshaping the global narrative, Rodney is determined to stand for more than appearances. His story is not just about fashion, but about courage, representation, and culture—a movement built on walking into rooms that weren’t designed for him, and refusing to leave until others could follow.
Let’s go back to the beginning. What was life like growing up in Ghana, and how would you describe your younger self?
I would definitely describe my younger self as shy, timid and extremely introverted—maybe a little goofy too. Life was pretty good growing up, I always had the support of my family.
Was there a specific moment when you realised modelling could become more than just a dream—something you could really pursue?
Not going to lie, I never actually dreamt of being a model until it happened. So it was more like I was dreaming in real time—everything was happening without any prior dreams or aspirations to pursue this.
From local castings to international runways like Milan Fashion Week, and walking for brands like Saint Laurent, what has been the most surprising thing about navigating the fashion world?
With this, it’s pretty difficult talking about the local scene because I never experienced it, so I didn’t have any surprises in terms of a comparison between both. I was basically inexperienced when I entered the international market, but one thing is for sure—it’s not as easy as it seems out there, or as people think.
You carry Ghana with you everywhere you go, whether it’s in your energy, your aesthetic or your sense of purpose. What does home mean to you?
Home means peace—a place to restore my energy so I can push again, season after season.
When you’re not in front of the camera or on the runway, how do you recharge and reconnect with yourself?
I mostly just stay at home and binge shows since I’m not an outdoor person, but I also do a few little outdoor things here and there.
Tell us about a moment in your career that still feels surreal—like you had to pause and take it all in.
That would definitely be my first ever show for YSL, where I was an exclusive model and also closed the show. It had me like, damnnn.
Fashion is constantly evolving. How do you decide which projects or designers to work with, and what draws you to a particular creative vision?
Personally, it’s all about trying not to involve myself in projects or with people who put a lot of pressure and toxicity into their work.
You’re part of a powerful new generation of African models reshaping the global fashion narrative. When people hear the name Rodney Osei, what do you hope they think of?
When people hear the name Rodney Osei, I hope they think of more than just a model. I want them to think of a movement—a name that stands for bold representation, cultural pride, and the breaking of barriers. I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t just walk runways, but who walked into rooms that weren’t built for him—and stayed to rebuild them for others.
