For over a decade, Models.com’s The Graduates series has been a visual check-in with the models of the moment who have consistently performed at the highest levels, going from the rising newcomers on the Hot List to the Top 50 recognizable muses throughout the world. Names like Bella Hadid, Hoyeon, Vittoria Ceretti, and Sora Choi, to name a few, have all taken part of the milestone series that uniquely marks the shift in a model’s career. With major bookings in editorials, advertisements, lookbooks, and on the runway, these models have consistently locked down luxury clients in the most competitive markets while continuing to dominate on the global stage.
Shot in Paris during the madness of fashion week by photographer Mauricio Sierra, this year’s cast gets introspective with Models.com on their starts, the brands that have made their careers, and taking their place amongst an elite few.
Growing up in Uganda, South Sudanese model Adit Priscilla harbored dreams of becoming a model from a young age. At 16, her aspirations became reality when she was scouted by Joram Model Management, her mother agency. After meticulous preparation, Priscilla made her runway debut for Fendi’s F/W 21 show, marking the start of a modeling journey filled with an impressive roster. Post-debut, she emerged as a muse for Blumarine, applauding former creative director Nicola Brognano as a “creative genius.” Just months after her debut, Priscilla achieved a milestone—her first-ever cover for Dazed Magazine’s Summer 2021 issue. Initially expecting an inside editorial, the cover holds a special place in her heart, and she was specific about the role that Dazed’s editor-in-chief, Ib Kamara, has had in her career. Priscilla praises his ability to create innovative narratives, acknowledging that the debut cover catapulted her towards even greater opportunities like appearing in seven campaigns with Chanel, Missoni, and Heaven by Marc Jacobs and collaborating with photographers like Rafael Pavarotti, Petra Collins, and Harley Weir. From making the Hot List in her debut year to achieving a coveted spot in the Top 50 at the start of 2023, Priscilla reflects on her journey humbly. She encourages aspiring models with conviction: “With hard work, dedication, passion, and resilience, you can rise through the ranks.” Navigating an industry that demands thick skin, Priscilla emphasizes the importance of a robust support system, and her days usually start with prayer and meditation. Despite that support system, she’s also faced challenges, none more complex than the logistical nightmare of obtaining a US Visa with a South Sudanese passport, which, according to the Henley Passport Index, needs a visa to visit 173 countries and is often presented with visa delays, leading to missed booking prospects.
Among Priscilla’s clients, her bond with Chanel stands out, having walked 10 ten shows for the brand. Describing Chanel as “home,” she expresses immense gratitude for the luxury giant that transformed her life, saying, “Shooting the Pre-Fall 2022 campaign was a massive dream come true, and constantly being booked on the roster to walk their magnificent shows always feels surreal! The team is beyond professional, compassionate, and loving.” Priscilla stands as a testament to staying power, acknowledging that the industry hasn’t always embraced diversity. She looks up to influential trailblazers like Edward Enninful, the editor-in-chief of British Vogue, and supermodel Naomi Campbell. Priscilla affirms, “They fought for all of us to have equal representation in the fashion world.”
