Although she dreamt of being a model since a young age, Shannon French has discovered that she does not want to be a supermodel but a role model who inspires others to reach for the stars and never back down.
Growing up and looking at Victoria’s Secret runway shows in magazines, she knew modelling was something she wanted to do.
‘When you are a child, especially a girl, your mother is one of your most influential role models.
The modelling industry was something my mother did when she was younger and is now something both of us are passionate about.’
The model talks about her career aspirations and why she chose this field.
The secret to modelling is not being perfect
Before Shannon’s modelling career, she was a dancer.
‘I started dancing at the age of three and did all styles like ballet, modern, hip hop, jazz and Spanish. I danced for 15 years and did multiple competitions and exams that enabled me to qualify as a teacher.
‘Unfortunately, in 2020, I stopped with the pandemic and did not finish my last exams. I still dance in my free time and do competitions because I love dancing,’ said Shannon.
‘In 2018, I started my modelling career and won my first show six months later. Thereafter, I never stopped.’
In the same year, she walked away as the national model of the year in the fashion division.
‘In 2019, I won the international model of the year and, in 2021, I won national model of the year in the division of skills.’
2021 was a big year for her because she also won the Face of Talent Africa.
A highlight she is proud of is winning the Miss Alberton pageant last year.
‘I attended my first pageant in my career and won the title of Miss Alberton 2022.
‘I am proud of all my achievements through the years, especially the opportunity that came along last year where I got the chance to walk as a model for a well-known designer at the SA Fashion Week,’ Shannon said.
‘Going to castings and fittings every other day and being part of a big event with different brands and local designers was amazing.’
Shannon says the best part of modelling is when the hard work pays off and you can be proud of yourself.
She also enjoys booking jobs, doing photoshoots and going abroad.
‘The hardest challenges in modelling are not always getting the job or not winning all the titles. In my opinion, that is how you learn to keep your head up, stay humble and work harder for the opportunities you want.
‘You do not need to be perfect to be a successful model. Just be you.
‘I have training every week, and some weeks you have jobs two to three times a week, going to fittings or doing presentations for clients. My schedule gets busy and sometimes I feel like I do not have enough hours in a day.’
Charity work
Shannon said that being a model also brought along charity work, something she fell in love with.
‘My love for charity came from giving back to the animals. I always try to support the Alberton SPCA and other animal shelters.’
When doing fundraisers she will ask for donations such as bedding, food, toys and second-hand clothes, which she donates to the SPCA to sell in their shop.
‘Anyone can do charity work. It is not just if you are a model. Giving back to the community in your own way, if it is for children, the elderly or homeless people is something one has to consider.
‘It’s important for me to give back to the animals because they also deserve loving homes and attention. Animals don’t have a voice and need people to look after them. People should realise that these shelters for stray or injured animals need as much help as they can from just about everyone.’
Taking action with her gift
‘I plan my future day-by-day, working to be an international model. My dreams are becoming a reality.’
It is also one of her goals to study journalism and work in the industry.
‘Modeling is something I want to pursue for my future. I want to be a part of different brands and be scouted by different agents. My ultimate dreams are to be a part of Victoria’s Secret fashion shows and take part in Paris, Milan and New York fashion week,’ said Shannon.
She is preparing for the Project Aim Convention at the end of next month on the MSC cruise ship, where she will meet agents from abroad to sign modelling contracts.
‘I have also been doing jobs for a client manufacturing the Kylie and Kendall Jenner Africa clothing brand. I have been showcasing the brand to different buyers in South Africa.’
A message to others
‘I want to show the world that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Dream, and dream big. Be confident in what you do to prove to others and yourself that you can do what makes you happy.
‘When life gives you challenges or doors close for you, remember that opportunities will come your way.’
Text: ELZAAN PIENAAR. Photo: DEYOWIPHOTOGRAPHY. Hair and make-up: SHANNON FRENCH. Stylist: SHANNON FRENCH
THIS AND THAT
Q: Your best day ever – outdoors or indoors?
A: Outdoors
Q: Makeup or no makeup?
A: No makeup
Q: High heels or flats?
A: Flats
Q: Dresses or a blouse and jeans?
A: Blouse and jeans
Q: Three things in your handbag
A: Wallet, lip gloss and hair elastic
Q: Your ultimate spoil
A: Going for a coffee
Q: Rain vs sunshine
A: Rain
Q: Role model
A: Candice Swanepoel
Q: Your favourite hang-out?
A: The mall
Q: iPhone or Android?
A: iPhone
Q: Bright or neutral colours?
A: Neutral colours
Q: If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
A: Cruelty to animals
