It’s midday at Tarkwa Bay, Lagos — the sun, relentless; the sea breeze, warm and heavy. I watch closely as Joy Akhigbe moves effortlessly in front of the camera, each pose more fluid than the last. She is the perfect muse as the photographer is clicking away and having the best time. Even as the sun scorches, it feels like it’s conspiring with her glow as the light catches every angle, the sand framing her stride. What’s striking isn’t just her beauty or poise, but her ease. There’s a confidence in the way she commands the lens like she was born to do this. 

This shoot ran for nearly six hours under the fierce Lagos heat, but Joy handled every moment with grace, professionalism, and charisma. Beneath her calm exterior lies a woman deeply aware of her power and one who understands her craft and the value it carries. She’s part of a new generation of models who know their worth and are unapologetically shaping how the industry should treat them - with respect, integrity, and fairness.

What began as an Instagram discovery has evolved into a purposeful career. Joy Akhigbe’s rise is a story of willpower, self-belief, and quiet rebellion. It’s the kind of journey that reminds us that modeling, at its core, is not just about looking good; it’s about standing tall.

Take us back to the beginning. How did you first get into modeling, and what moment made you feel like "this is really happening"?

I've always loved fashion, but I never really thought about modeling, at least not at first. After I graduated from secondary school at 14, my passion for fashion led me to start making clothes for myself. Whenever I wore them, I’d find myself posing in front of the mirror, not really knowing what I was doing, just doing what felt natural.

Things shifted when I got a phone and joined Instagram. The algorithm started showing me models, and as I watched them pose in videos, I realized that is exactly what I’ve been doing.

That moment was eye-opening. I said to myself, I can do this. I told my family, but I didn’t get much support. Still, I was strong-willed and determined to follow what felt right.

I joined a modeling academy, and within a month, I was already being noticed for how well I could pose. Then came my first photoshoot with a photographer from the academy, and that was the moment everything felt real. I knew it was happening

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Every model has that one job or campaign that feels like a turning point. What was that for you so far?

For me, the real turning point was when I got my first paid gig for a brand campaign. It was the first time I earned money from modeling, and that moment meant so much more than just a paycheck. It was a clear sign that all the work I’d been putting in collaborating with photographers, building my portfolio, staying consistent etc was starting to pay off.

The fact that someone who didn’t know me saw my potential and was willing to pay me to work with them. That felt incredible. It made me feel like I was on the right path and gave me the confidence to believe that I could go further, do more, and become more through modeling.

The modeling industry isn't always easy. What challenges have you faced in your come-up, and how have you pushed through them?
The modeling industry isn’t always easy, and my journey hasn’t been without its challenges. I’ve had to deal with unprofessional behavior, people and brands that tried to take advantage, and even instances of sexual harassment.

But through it all, I’ve stood my ground. I’ve learned to say no, to speak up, and to protect my boundaries. The strength and confidence I have is what’s kept me going and it's why I always encourage other models to be confident, fearless, and aware of their worth. Your voice and your safety matter, and no opportunity is worth compromising that. Your voice is your power. I also give all the credit to God, because I truly believe my Creator has placed me on this path and guided me through every step of the process.

How do you balance staying true to yourself while fitting into the demands of the industry?

I’ve always stayed true to myself, no matter what. I’ve never let the pressures of the industry break my character or compromise my values. I stand firmly for what I believe in and carry myself with strong work ethics.

For me, authenticity is everything. I believe that when you’re truly yourself, the right people, the ones who value and respect you will find you. And when you walk in that truth, the rest will adjust accordingly. There’s power in being real in an industry that often tries to shape you into something else.

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Who are the models, designers, or photographers that inspire you most right now?
Right now, I’m most inspired by every creative out there who carries good work ethics and strong values. The ones who keep showing up, putting in the work, and staying true to themselves regardless of the noise around them. It’s about energy, integrity, and consistency for me. Those are the creatives that truly inspire me.

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Do you feel like being a Nigerian/Black model comes with added pressure or responsibility in today's global fashion scene?     I haven’t had the opportunity to work outside of Nigeria yet, so I can’t speak from personal experience when it comes to the global fashion scene. However, I’m very aware of the challenges that Black models often face in the industry, from underrepresentation to racial bias, and I know those issues are real.

That said, I’m also inspired by how many Black models continue to shine and break barriers despite it all. Their resilience and success show that things are changing, it’s inspiring. I believe it will keep getting better, and I truly hope we reach a point where race is no longer a barrier, but simply a part of the beauty and diversity the industry celebrates.

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What story do you want your career to tell about beauty, identity, and representation?
Through my career, I want to show that beauty is diverse and deeply connected to who we are. Identity is powerful, and it’s important to embrace your individuality and stay true to yourself. My journey is about owning who I am and encouraging others to do the same, while putting in the hard work it takes to succeed.

When it comes to representation, I want to prove that everyone’s beauty and story deserve to be celebrated, regardless of where you’re from or your race. Every talent should be respected and valued.

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Payment and fair treatment have been recurring conversations in the modeling space. How do you feel being part of a generation of models advocating for better pay and respect - and do you see yourself as a voice for that movement?

‍I’m genuinely excited to be part of a generation of models who aren’t afraid to speak up for what’s right. It’s something that really resonates with me, because I’ve always been against any form of unfair treatment. Seeing more models stand up for fair pay and respect is empowering, and I’m proud to be a voice within that movement. I truly feel like I’m in the right generation, one that values integrity, respect and change

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How would you describe your personal style off the runway?‍

I'm not really on the runway, I’m a campaign girl but I get the question, for my “off duty” style, I just make sure I look good, whatever I throw on! Modeling’s taught me I can rock pretty much anything. Most days, I keep it elegant, but sometimes, I like to give cunt.

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What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that’s happened to you on set?
I was once on set when the hairstylist lied about me, claiming I refused to wear the wig provided when the directors asked. In reality, she was the one who said it would not suit me. I don’t think she expected me to find out, but someone on set came up and asked why I had refused the wig, so I knew exactly where the story was coming from. 

It really upset me, because I value honesty and professionalism, and there was no reason to lie.  But fortunately, I’m not someone who stays silent. I believe in speaking up, so I called her out in  front of the entire team. I also had models testify because she said it in the changing room and  other models were present.

I was also lucky to have worked with some of the creatives on set before,they could vouch for me  and confirm that I have solid work ethics. It was a reminder of how important your reputation and  character are in this industry.

If you weren’t modeling, what would you be doing right now?
I’d be running my clothing brand and probably making jewelry and shoes because of how much I  love both.

What’s your guilty pleasure reality TV show or series?
Stranger things / Wednesday

Finish this sentence: This summer, Joy Akhigbe was…
Outside!

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As the waves crash behind her and the golden sun begins to set, Joy Akhigbe’s laughter cuts through the hum of the beach — light, easy, grounded. She’s a reflection of what the modern modeling industry should look like: self-aware, professional, and unafraid to take up space.

Her message is simple yet powerful — respect the craft, value the effort, and never dim your light for anyone. Joy Akhigbe isn’t just a face for today; she’s a voice for the future of fashion in Nigeria and beyond.

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Credits 

Photographer:  Roderick Ejuetami @deedsart 

Production: Deeds Studio @deedsstudio

Writer: Oreoluwa Peters @oreoluwapeters_ 

Stylist: Jide Alli @latifalli 

Makeup: House of Daffodil @House_of_daffodil

Design: Diane Adanna Enebeli @DianeAdanna

Project Manager: OGHENEFEJIRO ADRIEN AYETENI @adrissck

PR: The Yellow Company @the.yellowcompany

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