There’s something magnetic about Selasi Bernard Afadi, a quiet strength wrapped in runway poise. Hailing from the small town of Klikor in Ghana’s Volta Region, Selasi’s journey into high fashion wasn’t born out of childhood dreams or glossy magazine fantasies. In fact, fashion never crossed his mind. But fate had other plans.
Discovered on the bustling streets of Accra, Selasi went from a complete fashion novice to walking for the likes of RHUDE, Hermès, and Zegna in a matter of months. With every stride, he carries not just his personal story, but the pride of a continent. In this exclusive interview, Selasi opens up about his beginnings, his biggest career moments, and the passions that drive him, both on and off the runway.
Tell us about your roots – where you’re from and how your upbringing shaped you.
I’m SELASI BERNARD AFADI from Klikor in the Volta Region of Ghana, where I was born, raised and educated. My childhood and my early years were spent in my hometown. I later moved to Accra, the capital city of Ghana, in 2020.
I would say in my early years I had no ideals about the world of fashion, it didn’t even cross my mind that I would one day be on the runway representing myself and these high fashion brands.
How were you discovered as a model?
I was discovered on the streets of Accra by one of the managers of BT Model Agency. Initially, lacking knowledge about fashion and modeling, I declined the offer. After a year of persuasion, I agreed to try it and secured international agencies within two weeks.
What did it feel like walking your first runway show?
My first runway was RHUDE in Paris. I was a bit nervous before the show, but with time I got over it. After the show, I was very happy being part of it.
What inspired you to pursue modelling as a career?
Receiving congratulatory messages from family and friends after they saw my modelling picture for the first time influenced my decision to pursue modelling as a career.
What does it mean to you to represent Africa on the global fashion stage?
I always feel very excited being on these global stages representing myself and my continent, and I always tell myself, God’s plan for humanity is always the best.
Where do you live now, and why?
I love my country, Ghana, and my hometown, Klikor. I still live here because I have important matters to handle, but I plan to relocate in the future.
What do you enjoy outside of modelling?
Besides modelling, I enjoy music and acting, and I hope to join the movie industry someday. I’m also business-minded. These are the things that keep me alive.
What’s been a career highlight for you so far?
I would say seeing myself on the runway for Hermès and Zegna has been my biggest highlight so far in my career.
How do you choose your fashion gigs or collaborations?
My agencies present the offers, and I deliver.
Who is Selasi in one sentence?
A guy from Klikor in the Volta Region of Ghana.
