Nigerian model aims to break 41-year-old catwalk Guinness World Record with 96-hour attempt

A Nigerian model, Ololade Ayelabola, is making headlines with her bold attempt to break a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest distance walked on a catwalk.

This record, which has stood for over four decades, was initially set in Ireland back in 1983.

Now, Ayelabola is on a mission to bring the title to Nigeria, aiming to challenge the strict standards of the modeling industry in Africa.

Inspired by fellow Nigerian record-holder Kafayat ‘Kaffy’ Shafau, Ayelabola’s attempt carries a deeper message—promoting inclusivity and diversity on the runway.

The event, began on October 1, 2024.

According to her, this extraordinary feat, which will last for 96 hours, isn’t just about setting a new record; it’s about showcasing African beauty in all its forms, pushing back against rigid industry expectations, and celebrating the nation’s rich cultural heritage through fashion.

Now, here’s what Ololade Ayelabola had to say about her journey:

“On September 1983, #GWR delivered a certificate to Ireland for the longest distance walked on a catwalk by a model.”

“Four decades after, a young Nigerian is determined to bring that #GWR certificate home—to the Giant of Africa. And it’s happening LIVE in the city of Lagos!!!.”

“My name is Ololade Ayelabola.”

“I’m a beauty queen who was rejected in two national fashion shows because 5 ft 10 isn’t tall enough. A model whose hard work and talent didn’t count because “she didn’t meet industry standards.”

“However, I’m setting out to change the narrative.”

“Using the painful setbacks as stepping stones, and drawing inspiration from Kafayat ‘Kaffy’ Shafau’s amazing dance record with #GWR, I’m attempting to break a 41-year-old Guinness World Record.”

“To smash the current 114.4 km record, I’ll catwalk alongside other models starting from October 1st 2024. Though audacious, this attempt is to challenge the rigid modelling standards in the African modelling scene.”

“By using the theme “Inclusivity and Diversity” for my record attempt, I hope to send a powerful message: African runways should embrace diverse body representations because beauty comes in different looks, shapes, and sizes.”

“For 96 hours non-stop, I and other models will exhibit the works of fashion designers while showcasing their creative, innovative, and unique ideas.”

“Besides being a #GWR attempt, this event will also be the perfect way to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th independence by broadcasting our nation’s rich culture and history through fashion.”

“I’ll love to thank everyone supporting this journey. I appreciate all your efforts so far, and I solicit for your continued support.”

“Let’s change a narrative. 💪🏽”

“Let’s set a GWR and bring this home.🇳🇬”

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