Is It Too Late To Model in Capetown, SA?
- ASM Blogger
- Jul 16, 2019
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 30, 2019
For the past 5 years Capetown, South Africa has been a desired destination for many up and coming models to build their book. But if you are thinking of going now you might want to reconsider.
Hey everyone! My name is Yvonne #symsimma and I've been modeling for 5 years now. I've been signed, dropped, resigned and signed again. If you've been modeling for awhile I'm sure you've been told to go to Capetown, South Africa to build your book. Well I finally went and I'm here to share my story.
Why South Africa?
“If you've been modeling for awhile I'm sure you've been told to go to Capetown, South Africa to build your book.”
South Africa is a country on the southernmost tip of Africa. One of the country's major cities is Capetown. Capetown is known for its beautiful beaches, wine farms and mountainous terrain. It quickly became a convenient location for production, with clients from Europe and America fleeing their winter seasons to take advantage of the weather and locations during South Africa's summer seasons, October-April.
January 2019 I had the opportunity to go to Capetown, South Africa for #modeling. I was ecstatic! First, because I’ve always wanted to travel outside of the States for modeling and second because I heard you can build your book, get tear sheets and campaigns. Then once you come back to the states you're a #supermodel and every agency wants you right? Well, not quite like that but that’s how everyone has made it out to be. Needless to say it was nothing like that.
How I Flew To Capetown
There is no direct flight to Capetown so I wanted to make sure my layover was in a familiar country. I chose to fly Lufthansa airlines with layovers in Germany.#Lufthansa was great, organized, comfortable and on time. I flew from JFK to Frankfurt and had a 4 hour layover. As I made my way through this spotless German airport I couldn’t help but ask myself why our American airports look like shit! This airport was peaceful, clean even the bathroom smelled like lavender! Trust me you would be thoroughly impressed. From Frankfurt I flew to Munich with a 2 hour layover then to my final destination. After a total of 33 hours I finally made it! Spent an entire day traveling but I finally made it! #Capetown I’m ready for work!
"..... I was 1 of about 3 black people in line at customs."
Landing in Capetown I couldn’t help but notice that I stuck out like a sore thumb among the travelers. As I made my way through the line staying aware of my surroundings I noticed
I was 1 of about 3 black people in line at customs. I only saw myself in the employees of the Capetown airport. “We need to travel more” was my inner thoughts. “My sister! This way number 6!” yelled security as he waved me to the next open customs agent. Nerves came over me as I await my approval stamp. “Modeling?” he asked. “Yes.” I heard myself say, confused with my own lack of enthusiasm. He looked up and nodded while stamping my passport.
Feels Like Home
"I should’ve known it was going to be a long 3 months."
I walked swiftly like I had been here before to a small baggage claim. Once I collected my brand new #samsonite luggage I decided to exchange some of my money. 13 Rands to the US dollar was the going rate. I wouldn't take out too much cash at the airport just in case someone is watching you. You'll likely need to exchange more money so go to #VAWaterfront once you're settled everything you need is there. I get to the main waiting area and make a call to my agency...... no answer. I call back “Hello?” “Hi, it's Yvonne I just landed in Capetown where should I meet the driver?” “Hi oh wow we weren’t expecting you until tomorrow didn’t you say the 10th?” I feel this woman's nonchalant attitude through the phone and my stomach turned into knots. I should’ve known it was going to be a long 3 months.
Less than an hour later I was on my way to visit the agency before heading to the model apartment. My first impression of Capetown after leaving the airport felt like home. It reminded me of Miami with its palm trees and sunny skies. This place is absolutely breathtaking! But this is a work trip so let's get to work.
Accomodations/Transportation
The model apartment was located in the Western Cape, #Greenpoint, Capetown. This is a safe area with many homes and guest houses around. A short 2 minute walk from the water and boardwalk with bars, restaurants and shops nearby. (Quick tip: download #beautypass app as soon as you get there. This app partners with restaurants, gyms, cafes, etc and models enjoy free offers in their venues in exchange for social media posts.) Other areas to stay include Seapoint, #CapetownCityCenter, 66 Keerom St. has really nice apartments, and #Woodstock. To get around I used #Uber and its really inexpensive compared to prices in America. An alternate car service that other models were using is #Taxify now known as #Bolt. As always please be careful and alert when using these car services.
"Timing, demographics, agency and your own mentality can play a part in how well you do in any market."
Mental Challenges
Booking my first job came after changing my mentality. I've been in Capetown for 2 weeks now and haven't booked anything. I was going to plenty of castings in my first 2 weeks with no bookings. Being the new girl in the #modelapartment I was hearing everyones experiences while they've been here and trust me none of it was positive. I eventually started thinking that I may have the same experiences as them. That I wouldn't be working and that the season is really slow. Thats when I decided to change my mentality, so whenever I would hear a negative comment or conversation about #modeling, I would politely excuse myself and throw on some head phones, read a book or workout.
The Capetown Market
Timing, demographics, agency and your own mentality can play a part in how well you do in any market. In this case it was mostly about timing. Capetown has been going through water droughts which led to multiple production companies shutting down. Therefore the opportunities to build your book and work with major brands were not available. Nevertheless, Capetown is beautiful I hope you get to visit whether its work related or not. If you are going strictly to work then its best to go for the entire season October through April or wait till you have direct bookings.
I'm so thankful for the time I spent modeling in a different country. Thank you to my wonderful roommates over on Antrim rd! As models we all go through the same bullshit with agencies, clients and money. Let's continue to support each other with positivity and kindness. Good luck to you all!
How was your modeling experience in Capetown?
Feel free to comment below with any tips and tricks ;)
Best Wishes,
Yvonne
Exclusive ASM Blogger
Yvonne Houston
IG: @symsimma_
Agency- @dollhousemanagement
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