Who:
Chufue Yang, 183 cm / 6’0″, American, born February 25th.
Why:
Chicago-based Chufue’s charm won’t be limited to just the midwest. Busy developing his book, Chufue’s versatility will certainly appeal to many markets.
We Asked:
How and when did you become a model?
“By chance. I was a photography assistant for this start-up magazine photoshoot in Chicago and while I was holding up one of the lights, the stylist came over to me and asked if I could wear this gray jumpsuit that she had. I feel like having acting experience definitely eased the nerves, but I was still freaking out. After the shoot was over, the magazine editor really liked the set I did and published me in their first issue. It was the first time I had ever felt good about my physical appearance. I hold this memory very close to my heart.”
What is an issue or cause you are passionate about?
“Social activism and representation. I feel the need to be apart of the movement that breaks the glass ceiling capped on people of color, especially Asian men. Growing up without a positive role model in the media that I could inherently relate to, I feel, has definitely skewed and shaped how I perceived my self-worth. At the end of the day, I’m not saying that I want to be the sole voice of the Asian community represented in the mainstream media, but definitely a positive reinforcement when viewing it collectively. In a way, I want to be the representation I never had growing up.”
What are your interest/favorite things?
“I feel like I have many interests that range from just creating, if that makes any sense. Whether it’s making digital art, graphic design, taking photos, writing music, or writing spoken word poetry. I know that I’m probably stretching myself thin with all of the things that I’m pouring my creative energy into, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I also love meeting new people and learning about their stories. I feel like that’s probably one of the reasons as to why I love modeling, being on set allows me to meet other creative individuals. It’s such a cool experience and I can’t get enough of it.”