- Nigerian model Ololade Ayelabola has set a Guinness World Record for the longest distance walked on a catwalk.
- The record, which has been in place for over four decades, was first established in Ireland in 1983.
- Ayelabola is set to bring the title to Nigeria, challenging the stringent standards of the African modeling industry.
- Ayelabola, inspired by Nigerian record-holder Kafayat ‘Kaffy’ Shafau, is promoting inclusivity and diversity on the runway.
A Nigerian model, Ololade Ayelabola, is garnering attention for her ambitious endeavor to set a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest distance walked on a catwalk.
This record, which has remained unbroken for more than forty years, was first established in Ireland in 1983.
Ayelabola is determined to reclaim this title for Nigeria, seeking to challenge the stringent norms of the modeling industry across Africa.
Motivated by fellow Nigerian record-holder Kafayat ‘Kaffy’ Shafau, Ayelabola’s pursuit conveys a significant message—advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the fashion world.
The event commenced on October 1, 2024.
As she explained, this remarkable endeavor, which will span 96 hours, transcends the goal of merely setting a new record; it aims to highlight the beauty of Africa in all its diversity, confront rigid industry standards, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the nation through fashion.
Here is what Ololade Ayelabola shared regarding her journey:
“On September 1983, #GWR delivered a certificate to Ireland for the longest distance walked on a catwalk by a model.”
“Four decades after, a young Nigerian is determined to bring that #GWR certificate home—to the Giant of Africa. And it’s happening LIVE in the city of Lagos!!!.”
“My name is Ololade Ayelabola.”
“I’m a beauty queen who was rejected in two national fashion shows because 5 ft 10 isn’t tall enough. A model whose hard work and talent didn’t count because “she didn’t meet industry standards.”
“However, I’m setting out to change the narrative.”
“Using the painful setbacks as stepping stones, and drawing inspiration from Kafayat ‘Kaffy’ Shafau’s amazing dance record with #GWR, I’m attempting to break a 41-year-old Guinness World Record.”
“To smash the current 114.4 km record, I’ll catwalk alongside other models starting from October 1st 2024. Though audacious, this attempt is to challenge the rigid modelling standards in the African modelling scene.”
“By using the theme “Inclusivity and Diversity” for my record attempt, I hope to send a powerful message: African runways should embrace diverse body representations because beauty comes in different looks, shapes, and sizes.”
“For 96 hours non-stop, I and other models will exhibit the works of fashion designers while showcasing their creative, innovative, and unique ideas.”
“Besides being a #GWR attempt, this event will also be the perfect way to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th independence by broadcasting our nation’s rich culture and history through fashion.”
“I’ll love to thank everyone supporting this journey. I appreciate all your efforts so far, and I solicit for your continued support.”
“Let’s change a narrative. 💪🏽”
“Let’s set a GWR and bring this home.🇳🇬”
