Over the past year, Jamaica has proved to be an undeniable influence on the modeling industry. You’ll find Jamaican faces on the runway for nearly every major designer and posing for fashion’s leading photographers, and the latest generation of talent has been racking up work with the industry’s power players. Tami Williams and Kai Newman appeared side by side in the pages of Vogue and made waves on the runway for Alexander McQueen and Valentino, while newcomers Brandon Bailey and Andre Doyley were among Spring’s most talked about boys, snagging coveted exclusives at Prada and Calvin Klein Collection, respectively. Williams, Newman, Bailey, and Doyley are indicative of the wealth of beauty to be found on the island and the keen eye of Deiwght Peters, founder of Saint International, the agency responsible for the discovery and development of many of Jamaica’s rising stars.
Peters honed his skills developing music acts before entering fashion. Adept at seeing the raw potential in models at the very beginning of their careers, he has created an enviable roster that focuses on distinctive beauty with a presence and that aims to bridge the gap between Jamaica and the international modeling markets. As the whole world looks to Jamaica, Peters offers insight into why it remains a fashion epicenter—and a first look at the newest stars you need to know.
When did you start Saint International?
Saint as a modeling agency began in 2000. I started a competition called the Fashion Face of the Caribbean. The first event was attended by Jamaican supermodel Stacey McKenzie as a special guest. Buoyed by the success of the first wave of international placements, I decided to shake up the Jamaican market. I partnered with one of the major television stations and created a model search I called The Faces of Summer. This was the Caribbean’s first reality /televised model search. It involved cameras trailing me across Jamaica to watch me discover new faces and reimagine them. It was a runaway hit and a groundbreaking phenomenon in Jamaica (and the Caribbean). For five years, every winner was signed internationally in New York, London, Milan, Paris, Singapore, South Africa, and more. By 2003, Nakeisha Robinson became a global sensation when Naomi Campbell (for the first time) endorsed her as the “new Naomi.” This was a featured story by Hillary Alexander in London’s Guardian. She went on to star in Dolce & Gabbana’s D&G campaign and later Calvin Klein’s CK-1 fragrance TV commercial.
What were some of the challenges you experienced when you began?
The challenges were mainly financial. Regarding industry contacts, Rodney Harris helped tremendously in getting doors opened, even in New York. I found the industry itself very welcoming, as they pointed out that the way I developed and presented models was impressive. Regarding my international travel, I was very fortunate to get assistance from family and friends who believed in the vision. I traveled a lot to make sure I was well networked in the major markets. In Jamaica, it took a while for corporate Jamaica and even the government to understand the vision of Saint, but now they are very supportive. We even managed to get funding from the European Union PSDP Funding program for some of our projects.
How is scouting in Jamaica different from scouting in other countries?
In some countries, the difference is how the industry is perceived, as a priority or preferred career option. Hence, sometimes I observe the commitment level is different from the models there. Expectations are also different. Currently, there is a literal global rush regarding models from across the world—Canada, London, Australia, Germany, and the islands. Scouting in Jamaica is not easy; every year I see several thousands of aspiring models but only select less than 100 to enter the Fashion Face of the Caribbean. We have a very integrated and enviable scouting methodology, but mum’s the word!
What do you look for in new models?
I like the “off beauty,” nontraditional. They must have strong ambition and dedication, and passion is also important. They must possess that elusive It factor that can take them beyond the scope of fashion and into other areas, for example, acting, et cetera.
What is unique about the beauty of Jamaican men and women?
I think the beauty is relatable. There is a skin texture (with an undertone) that I have heard photographers comment on. The friendly and charming personality (we love to laugh) also endear clients and international agents. I believe the aesthetic presented by the models transcends many references.
Why do you think the international market is responding to the current set of Jamaican models?
There is a signature sense of fearlessness, national pride, and long-term ambitions that is driving this new set of models. Their classic looks, timelessly refined features and profile, and intelligence underline the allure. I believe that clients sense that there is something professional and serious about the current Jamaican models. Recently, one of my models in London related to me that one casting director told her “the Jamaican models have a presence.” They are also competitive and have strong ambitions of achieving greatness and of making themselves, their country, and their families proud. [At our agency] I teach them not to take things personally and that not every client will like them. They also understand that every disappointment must strengthen them to push harder.
Why do you think Jamaica remains such a hot spot?
Jamaica’s rich culture and warm, vibrant people make it as alluring today as yesterday. It’s one reason there are so many repeat visitors. Its lush, tropical backdrop has made it a favorite place for fashion shoots for prestigious publications such as Vogue, Teen Vogue, and many others. Our natural white-sand beaches are among the favorite playgrounds for international visitors. There is also a laid-back, romantic vibe that has global appeal.
Can you tell us a bit about the girls you feel we should be keeping an eye out for in the coming months?
There is a new batch simmering under the radar—watch out for:
1. Alexion McDonald, who is with Next Models worldwide
2. Christina Knight, Milk Models London, Muse Models NYC, Special Milan, MP Paris
3. Aneita Moore, Models 1 London, Monster Milan, Premium Paris, Fusion(NY)C
4. Shane Guyher, FM London, Monster Milan, Premium Paris
5. TJ (Tiffany Johnson), Elite New York, Why Not Milan, WM Paris
6. Kim Martin, Why Not Milan, New Madison Paris
7. Wayne, Direct Booking by Saint
8. Aurelie, Marilyn NYC . . . she was scouted from Martinique
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