MEET IBBE
Featured in various campaigns for Frank Dandy, Holbrook Sweden, KappAhl and our very own Krull Magazine, Aziz Ibrahim Gomina aka Ibbe is a rising star in Stockholm’s fashion scene. Get to know Ibbe as we talk future goals, music, fashion and what it means to him to be an afro-swede.
Krull: So how did you become a model?
Ibbe: It’s actually kind of a funny story. I was on my way to meet a friend in downtown Stockholm when I noticed a man looking at me. At that time I didn’t pay much attention to it, but a few minutes later I see the same man jogging towards me! He then introduced himself to me as a fashion photographer. He turned out to be one of Stockholm more well known photographers and that’s how it all started.
Who would you like to model yourself after in the fashion industry?
Tyson Beckford; he paved the way for black models and male models in general, so for me he’s a great icon.
What is it like being a male model in Sweden? What would you say has been the best experience in your career so far?
Being a male model in Sweden is very exciting. I’ve got to visit places that I’d never seen before and I’ve got the opportunity to meet a lot of nice people which I’m very grateful for. The best experience, hands down, is all the people I’ve met in the industry. From my agents at my agency to photographers, stylists, MUA’s and many more. I’m so happy to have met them all. Modeling has also pushed me to discover new strengths that I have. I’ve been thrown into some unusual and uncomfortable situations, but I believe that going through them and constantly putting myself out there has made me grow.
What has your experience been like as an Afro-Swede?
Having different skin color and features than the people around me has taught me that I always had to work ten times harder to prove myself.
With more and more fashion houses choosing to branch out with their model castings, how do you feel about the state of “diversity” in the fashion industry?
As a black male model I have noticed that the diversity of models in the fashion industry are increasing. The process may be slow but is going in the right direction, which makes me very happy and proud to be a part of.
What are some lessons you’ve learned in your career so far?
At the end of the day you are just an object in the industry and if you put too much emotions in people’s opinions about your looks you may get hurt. It’s important to not take anything personally.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
My goal is to experience the modeling industry in as many countries as possible and discover as many new places as I can. I also want to push myself into becoming the best version of me and inspire people to follow their dreams and passions.
Who is your favorite designer at the moment?
One of my favorites right now is Swedish sneaker brand Eytys (pronounced “80s”). I like the style of their sneakers: cool and authentic.
Which city is your favorite fashion capital of the world?
New York. I feel like New York is one of the leading cities in the fashion industry and for good reason since a lot of different trends in fashion are evolving there.
How would you describe your personal style in three words or less?
Clean, Fresh and timeless.
Favorite food?
My favorite food is pizza. I don’t get to eat it often, but I still love it.
Who has the best music out right now?
I would have to say Kendrick Lamar, King K, and Kung Fu Kenny.
As a model, you have to look photo ready at any given moment. Do you have any tips for getting that photo-ready summer body?
Unfortunately, I don’t have any tips for a quick fix. If you want to change the way you look, you’ll need to give it time and be consistent with your regimen. I am a strong believer in treating your body right with healthy food, lots of water and an exercise routine that works for you. It’s all about finding the right balance best suited for you.
What are your plans for summer 2017?
If everything works out as planned I’ll be spending my summer in Los Angeles with my new agency Photogenics LA. I also want to do some traveling in my spare time and discover what America has to offer.
photography by CHRISTOFFER SUNDQVIST
styling RL PEARSALL
shirt, jacket OSCAR JACOBSON
shorts SCAMPI
