Zimbabwean model Royce Gavi, who grew up in Bulawayo recently travelled to Dubai, where he trained models preparing for Miss/Mrs Dubai.

Gavi started his modelling journey in Bulawayo after he was scouted by prominent model and modelling agency founder Pardon Khaya Khanye.

Under Khanye’s mentorship, Gavi developed his modelling skills before going on to pursue work in other parts of Zimbabwe and outside the country.

His latest trip to Dubai saw him work with models from the Middle East, giving him a chance to experience a different side of the modelling industry.
Gavi said the trip also allowed him to meet models from outside Africa and learn about their cultures and experiences.

“Travelling to Dubai was not just a regular journey for me. It was also an opportunity to scout models who are not from Africa. You get an opportunity to learn about other people’s culture,” Gavi said.

He said he was impressed by how quickly the models responded to his training and their willingness to take on new teachings.

“Apart from networking, one of the biggest things I learnt from the models in the Middle East is that they are eager to adapt to other teachings and they work hard,” he said.

The experience has also exposed Gavi to a modelling environment different from what he is used to in Zimbabwe.

He said working with models from the Middle East helped him appreciate the importance of exchanging knowledge and learning from people with different experiences in the industry.

Gavi encouraged Zimbabwean models to continue working on their skills and to look beyond the local market when opportunities arise.

“There are many opportunities for Zimbabwean models internationally,” he said.