Now Casting: Akon Changkou

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Last month, Akon Changkou walked the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2020 runway show, marking her first fashion show with a major designer. Now, the 22-year-old model is navigating the ins and outs of the industry in a whole new country. Born in South Sudan, Changkou’s parents moved to Adelaide, Australia when she was nine. While still living Down Under, an agency scouted Changkou on Instagram, and only four months later she has found herself living in New York with a full portfolio and runway show under her belt. The emerging talent spoke to CR about who inspires her, how she spends her free time, and her love of sneakers.

What’s your favorite part about modeling?
“I get to learn so much about myself because I do have a lot of free time. And the industry is completely different to how I thought it would be, so I’m learning a lot about the it. My favorite part is probably, everyone says it, but traveling. But then again, because I’m a people person, I like the meeting people part. I like knowing that I’m working with different types of people. I like creating friendships.”

What’s your day-off look like?
“If I’m [in Adelaide], I’ll be at the beach. It doesn’t matter what the weather is, I love the beach and always go, even if I’m not swimming. I just love chilling and being around it. If it’s in New York, I really like exploring places. I literally got off [the subway] for 20 minutes just to walk. If I can be bothered, I’ll leave the house and go explore or work out. I love working out, but it doesn’t really happen often. I can’t lie, I was going to say read a book but I’ll read one book [over the course of] a year.”

Who do you look to for career inspiration?
“Fashion-wise, I like Kate Moss. Plus, she’s not as tall as everyone else, and I’m not as tall as everyone else. I like Candice Swanepoel. She’s my favorite-favorite. I like that she juggles more than just modeling. Probably Alek Wek, as well, because she was a big representation for dark skin girls. She’s been in the game for a long time. I just met her recently. She’s super chill and super nice.”

How would you describe your personal style?
“I don’t even have one. I think I’m super casual, but at the same time I love to dress up, so it just depends on the vibe. But I literally chuck on anything and hope it looks good.”

Sneakers or heels?
“Sneakers. Don’t even have to think about it. I’m a sneaker-head.”

Favorite sneaker?
“I think Stan Smiths, the classic ones. I wear them everyday. Also Jordans. [Nike Air Force Ones] can go with everything as well.”

What kind of music do you listen to?
“Soul, R&B, anything that sounds good.”

Favorite artists?
“Tory Lanez, Travis Scott. I listen to anyone.”

What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
“London, because I haven’t been yet and everyone loves it. I really want to go, because when I got my exclusive, I didn’t get to do fashion month the way it’s [usually done.] So, everyone was in London, and I’ve always wanted to go.”

What does the future look like for you?
“I really hope that I become really great at what I’m doing right now. I just hope for success.”

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createdAt:Wed, 30 Oct 2019 14:42:31 +0000
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