THE MODEL JOURNAL : ELOUIZA

Welcome to the ‘The Model Journal’. A platform that reveals what is going on behind the faces at BEC Models. From side hustles and campaigns, to industry knowledge and advice, find out what the day to day life of a model is really like.

This month we speak to Elouiza, our stunning model/singer/actor at BEC models! Elouiza gives us an incredible insight into her journey as a trans women, she talks openly and honestly about her experience and what needs to be done to increase the representation in the arts industry for trans+ talent. She tells us about her passion for performing arts and how and why she has made a successful career out of it to date.

Firstly, how are you? How are you really and how are you coping in this strange world we live in at the moment!?

I feel last year and the beginning of this year has been super challenging especially for my mental health, but accepting that life is complex and not linear has been really comforting and grounding. Also truly learning self compassion has been key in the toughest of times. I definitely recommend therapy to anyone who can access it.

How did you get into modelling? How old were you and it is something you've always wanted to do?

I still don’t really see myself as model as modelling is so sporadic but it’s definitely something I’ve always wanted to do. When I was younger I used to idolise the idea of being one and it sometimes feels surreal even when I’m at a casting. I started modelling for my friends who were photographers and it grew from there.

What advice do you wish you were given when you first started out in the industry?

To really know your worth and to not be afraid to ask questions and to always ask for more.

You were awarded a scholarship to London Dance school and studied performing arts, how was that experience? Have you always know you wanted to be in performing arts/modelling and did this cement your passion?

When I was growing up and learning about the society I lived in and how it viewed and treated me, dancing gave me such an outlet to express the emotions I didn’t even understand at the time. It was something that came really naturally to me and gave me a sense of pride as a lot of other parts of my life were constantly being criticised. It was a space where I felt celebrated and championed. This definitely gave me a determination to work towards a career in the arts.

How did you decide you wanted to go into fashion?

After doing performing arts in college I did an art foundation and from that decided I wanted to study fashion then went on to LCF. But then I dropped out as I wanted to pursue music. I’ve always been torn between music and fashion.

“When I was growing up and learning about the society I lived in and how it viewed and treated me.”

If you don’t mind, I’d love to hear your journey as a trans woman?

Being trans is such an adverse, complex and beautiful journey. In some ways I feel super privileged in my experience and it’s been a polarising one to say the least. What people forget is that you’re not the only one who transitions, everyone around you transitions with you too. Through my life I have felt both unconditional supportive love and prejudice/discrimination but living as my most affirmed and authentic self is truly irreplaceable.

How do you feel about the Trans Rights progression in the UK? Is it enough and what would you like to see more of in the fashion industry?

I think education and representation is key. The more diverse range of trans narratives the better. Greater access to health care is crucial and there needs to be more trans people in positions of power.

You’ve made some very impressive appearance in London Fashion week for Josephine Jones F/W 19/20 show and have also been featured in Dazed Beauty. What has been your favourite job to date and why, what more would you love to do?

I love photoshoots as they’re such a record of time and capture a moment of creativity. I would love to do more editorials.

In 2017 you released your visual EP ‘Necessity’. Please explain and describe what this was and how you came up with the ideas?

Necessity was a sonic and visual diary I created to reflect the early days of my transition. It was such an outlet to express the relationship I had with myself and the relationship trans womxn have with men.