Black model takes world by storm

Born in Brooklyn, New York to Grenadian mother Gail Noel née Baptiste and Trinidadian father Michael Flavigny, Corey Baptiste is a proud son of the Caribbean.

His father died when he was very young, so Dominican Al Benoit is the man Corey knows as dad. In an interview with Flair, Corey demonstrated a strong passion for his Caribbean roots. "I am proud to be Caribbean. It is really a blessing and I will never forget my culture," noted Baptiste.

The young Aquarian model, who turns 23 in January, explains that in addition to the culture and the people, the food is also among the reasons he loves being Caribbean. "I enjoy a well-seasoned oxtail with rice and peas," he told Flair.

Indeed, Corey's Caribbean connections run deep as he is currently represented by Wilson Model Management, Inc., a young model management company under the leadership of Brandon Wilson, and Sean Kilkenny. Wilson, who hails from Falmouth, Trelawny, discovered Corey in 2009 while he (Wilson) was still a model, and at that time placed him with VNY Model Management. He, soon after, launched his own agency.

Corey's meteoric rise to the top of the industry is not by chance, but is a result of hard work, commitment and perseverance, combined with his warm, engaging and charming personality. In just three and a half years he has accomplished what many take decades to achieve.

Campaigns

The 6'1" model has been featured in campaigns for GAP, J.Crew, DKNY Mens, DKNY Jeans, United Colours of Bennetton, H & M and Hugo Boss. His magazine editorials include NY Times Style, GQ Style Germany and Vogue Hommes Japan. Corey has also graced the runway in the major fashion capitals of New York, London and Milan and has modelled for Calvin Klein, Canali, DKNY, Giorgio Armani, Michael Kors, John Galliano, Ralph Lauren, Missoni, just to name a few.

One of the high points of his career, to date, is when he closed the Dolce and Gabana runway presentation opened by top black model David Agbodji during Milan Fashion Week in Fall 2011. Never before had such diversity been seen in this collection.

Such an opportunity, he believes, is made possible due to the great work and rich legacy of black supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Tyson Beckford, for whom Corey has great admiration and respect. He told Flair that as he builds on that legacy, he is seeking to finish the story started by Tyson.

The ambitious and determined Baptiste was quick to caution young models who believe it is all glitz and glamour, that if one is serious about making a career in the industry, must be prepared for the gruelling schedule. "My advice, especially for young males, is to work hard and stay focused. Keep your head up and your eyes fixed on your goal. Surround yourself with positive people and take it day by day," he advises.

His biggest campaign, so far, has been the Summer 2013 campaign for Hugo Boss Menswear. And with 2014 fast approaching, there are a number of major projects in the pipeline expected to catapult the rising star to greater heights.

Corey continues to dream big and reveals that a major feat for him would be to book a single campaign for a major Italian brand like Armani or Gucci.

This Caribbean gem is on a mission, and is certainly one to watch out for.

Among the persons he would most like to meet are United States presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, Bajan soca superstar Alison Hinds and Jamaican sprint sensation Usain 'Lightning' Bolt.

Flair asked Corey about some of his favourites:

Color: Blue

Designer: Dolce Gabbana

Cologne: Chanel by Dior

Suit: Gucci

Music: Rap

Movie: Rush Hour

Artist: Jay-Z

Sport: Basketball

Car: Mustang GT 500

City: New York

Caribbean Island: Grenada

Food: Pasta, oxtail, rice and peas