Thieu Ajak Garang: Rise on The African runway

 At just 21, Thieu Ajak Garang carries himself with a quiet confidence that feels earned rather than assumed. Born in Wernyol, South Sudan, and now calling Nairobi home, the model is part of a new generation of African talent redefining what global fashion looks like, grounded in identity, driven by discipline, and ambitious without apology.

Fresh off walking at Nairobi Fashion Week, Thieu speaks about the experience not with hype, but with gratitude. “It was amazing,” he says simply. “The entire team was supportive, active, and friendly. That energy made everything, from backstage to the runway, feel inspiring.” For someone who joined the cast at the last minute, the ease with which he stepped into the moment says a lot about both his professionalism and presence.

On the runway, Thieu walked for four designers, Maisha, Acinod, Rialto, and John Kaveki, each offering a distinct creative language. Rather than ranking the experience, he reflects on the intention behind the work. “Every collection had its own identity and vision,” he explains. “That’s what stood out for me. You could feel how thought-through everything was.” It’s a designer-first appreciation that reveals his understanding of fashion as collaboration, not just performance.

Nairobi Fashion Week itself remains a powerful platform, not only for designers, but for models navigating the East African fashion ecosystem. Thieu sees it as a mirror of the region’s growth. “It brings together designers from across the continent and internationally,” he says. “There’s real networking, real exchange of ideas. Models also get scouted for global opportunities, which makes it incredibly important for Kenya and the region.”

Based in Nairobi, one of Africa’s most dynamic creative capitals, Thieu acknowledges both the opportunity and the reality of building a career locally. “There are so many opportunities here, especially because international designers love showcasing in Nairobi. The audience is supportive,” he says. “But there are challenges too. Low pay for some jobs can make it hard to prepare for future gigs. Modelling is expensive. Staying competitive means constant investment.” It’s an honest assessment, grounded in lived experience rather than illusion.

Preparation for Nairobi Fashion Week was, by necessity, minimal. Recruited late, Thieu focused on the essentials: staying in shape and maintaining healthy skin. Yet once on the runway, he felt completely in his element. “That’s where I feel most alive,” he says. Beyond the walk itself, moments backstage left a lasting impression, connecting with international photographers, meeting other models with strong energy, and speaking to designers from outside Kenya. “Those connections were very meaningful for me.”

Despite the bold silhouettes and high-fashion drama he embodies on the catwalk, Thieu’s personal style off-duty is understated. “I like to keep things simple,” he admits. “I don’t want too much attention in everyday life. I save the boldness for the runway and major events.” It’s a balance that reflects his personality, reserved at first glance, but expressive when it matters.

That reserved nature, he says, is often misunderstood. “People think I’m rude or unapproachable,” he laughs. “But once they get to know me, they realize that’s not who I am at all.” In reality, Thieu describes himself as active, adventurous, and curious. He’s drawn to basketball, music, travel, wildlife, books, and films, interests that keep him mentally and physically engaged beyond fashion.

At the core of everything he does are his roots. His culture and background guide his decisions, personally and professionally. Family, especially his mother and eldest brother, remains his biggest source of inspiration. “Their support and guidance keep me motivated every day,” he says. Modelling, he adds, has changed the way he sees himself and the world, teaching resilience, consistency, and self-belief.

In an industry often driven by image and speed, what keeps him grounded is clarity. Thieu knows his long-term goals: walking London, New York, Milan, and Paris; working with brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, Prada, Armani, and Versace; and appearing in titles such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. “Keeping those goals in mind helps me stay focused and humble,” he says.

As for what’s next, Thieu hints at personal projects and upcoming collaborations with designers, details to be revealed in time. For now, he’s focused on growth, patience, and discipline. His advice to aspiring models across Africa is direct: “Discipline leads to greatness. Perfect your craft, invest in yourself, stay patient, and keep networking. When the time comes, you’ll shine.”

Ultimately, the legacy Thieu Ajak Garang hopes to build goes beyond runways and campaigns. He wants to be remembered as someone who stayed true to his roots and purpose, while inspiring others to believe in their own dreams. Watching him move, quietly but deliberately, toward the global stage, it’s clear that this is only the beginning.

Written by Fashion Editor