Deeds Magazine fosters narratives driven by aesthetics, creativity and ambition. We uncover stories that reflect Africa’s robust pop culture and creative enterprises, leading our voices in the global discourse on the continent’s cultural influence. Naturally, we gravitate toward individuals who align with our values, share our creative perspective and amplify our mission. One of those people is Ariish Wol.
In this interview, we celebrate a rising talent who radiates elegance, allure and sophistication. Her personality and work ethic align with our interpretation of beauty and Black excellence, making her a standout figure in our content pillars. Our brief interaction with Ariish not only offers insight into her work–life balance but also reframes perspectives on modelling and the fashion industry at large.
Ariish’s modelling career is one to watch. Ariish is managed by Together Model Management based out of Montreal, and has collaborated with top agencies including Premium Models in Paris, Uno Models in Barcelona and Storm Management in London. She is steadily building a global portfolio while establishing herself as a compelling presence in fashion. Beyond modelling, Ariish is the founder southsudanfeedthefuture of a humanitarian initiative providing relief and assistance to South Sudanese communities affected by poverty, malnutrition and other social challenges.
Whether it was the rise in demand or the connection with her growing fanbase, 2024 marked a turning point for Ariish. It was the year she began to see modelling not just as a job but as her calling. “In 2024, I had an awe feeling that modelling was truly a gift, and I wanted to be able to give and show the creativity and beauty of my canvas,” she said.
Her journey began in 2018, when she walked into her first agency in Montreal, Canada. “The very first one I walked into turned out to be my mother agency. I got a contract handed to me right after I took the digis, and I was shocked. After that, they sent me to London, and the rest is history.”
Ariish opened up about her preparation rituals, giving us a peek into the habits that fuel her physically and creatively. “The day before [a shoot], I make sure I do my morning meditation, exercise and stretches. I have to do my breathing exercises throughout the day so I can get my body fueled and relaxed. By the afternoon, I should have already showered, had my tea and freshly squeezed juice of whatever fruit or vegetable I’m craving. By 2 p.m., I eat something solid. Right before bed, I start practising some poses so my body is loose and able to move comfortably the next day. After that, I do my skin care, shower again in cold water, and then have a relaxing night
Modelling has shifted Ariish’s definition of beauty, especially when it comes to self-care and self-perception. “Modelling has opened my eyes to see that no matter what, self-care matters,” she said. Ariish explains that dressing well and presenting yourself with care, regardless of the occasion, changes how you feel about the day ahead. “And just every day beauty, regardless if it’s in comfy clothes, casual, cocktail dress or Met Gala look, you should always want to look good for yourself because it truly does make a difference to how the day goes.”
Every creative has a defining moment in their career—one that lingers. For Ariish, it was walking in the Mugler Fall/Winter 2021 campaign. “This one is dear to my heart. I truly felt I was part of something great, bigger than me—and that campaign went viral.” What made it even more meaningful was the response from women who saw themselves in her. “The amount of messages I got from so many young ladies about how I gave them the power to live truly in their bodies really touched my heart.”
While she hasn’t revealed any upcoming collaborations yet, Ariish is hopeful. “No, not at the moment,” she said. “But hopefully very soon.”
To the up-and-coming, the bloomers, and those still trying to navigate the complexities of this competitive industry, Ariish offers a simple but powerful truth: “Don’t ever compare yourself to another model. You are one of a kind, and opportunities are all around you.”
Our conversation with Ariish revealed the many facets of her identity, from her dedication to self-care and mental well-being to her humanitarian values. Her story is one of perseverance, intention and love—both for herself and the communities she supports. Ariish is not just a muse for the runway—she’s an emblem of empowerment.