Dade: Model, Teacher, Self Proclaimed "Jesus Freak", Spreading Love and Purpose.

When casting models in New York from a computer screen in Paris you never know what you're going to get when you arrive. Beautiful face after beautiful face cross our desks constantly but beautiful souls are more of a rare find. Dade walked into the first fitting for NYC Fashion Week with a huge smile and a radiant aura around her and from that moment we knew she was a Kate Girl. Full of heart, an amazing laugh, a deep relationship with god and her family, this model/teacher gives it all away in her smile.

Photo Credit: Nicole Balboa

Tell us a little about your story, where you're from, how you got into modeling, how your friends would describe you, etc?

I’m Dadé and I’m from NYC. I was born to Nigerian parents who came to the US in search of newness.

I started modeling after working as a volunteer for AMCONYC during fashion week. This Swedish photographer literally kept stalking me throughout the show insisting that I shoot with her. I conceded and here I am: knee deep in the industry, signed to a great agency and growing every day.

My friends would describe me as being stubborn and caring to a fault, free-spirited, and a ‘Jesus Freak’

How long have you been modeling and what's your funniest modeling memory?

I’ve been modeling for almost 3 years now and it’s been exhilarating. One of my funniest memories is repeatedly tripping on a pair of trousers during a runway show. It’s funny because I invited quite a few friends to see me and they caught the whole thing on video.

What's your life's philosophy? Please explain

Let love be your only outstanding debt to the world.

What is the movement you are most excited about in fashion right now?

Wide leg jeans!!! I was obsessed with them when I was younger and never really let them go ever since—I’m glad to see they’re back again.

Who has had the biggest influence in your life and why?

My Uncle Gbenga. He’s been a father, a brother and a best friend to me. I remember faithfully going out on weekends with him to feed the homeless people on the streets of NYC. We’d spend hours talking to them about the love of Christ and playing soccer. This is significant because I didn’t have my biological father in my life. His presence in my life was God showing me what love is.

What about who you are, are you most proud of? Why?

I can say that though life has dealt me some harsh rounds, I am able to say that my faith in God and love for people are untouched.

I’ve been victim to the ugliest parts of human beings, yet I utterly refuse to be bitter or harbor resentment as a result of such. This helps me keep a pure heart and show love to anyone I meet.

What do you do when you're not modeling, hobbies, other passions, other jobs, etc?

I teach Secondary school English literature & Writing during the day. I love to write poetry. I’m dabbling in photography and film. I’m truly addicted to inspiration so it makes me vulnerable to being social in search of innovation.

What are your ambitions for the next few years?

In the next few years, I’ll be traveling, serving God’s people & giving TED Talks or something along those lines.

Photo Credit: @Patmaur1ce

What was your favorite thing about working with Atelier Kate?

Kate is amazing to work with! I remember going for fitting she was very much interested in what models had to say about their looks. That doesn’t happen too much with designers. Her brand is true to self and expression and I’m here for it.

If you could be remembered for one thing what would you want it to be?

I want to be remembered as the one who stood out as a constant reminder of God’s Love to the world.

To learn more about Dade and experience her uplifting and hilarious spirit for yourself follow her @regalwrench