Rwandan model Happy Jackie Umurerwa was only 12 when she was discovered as a model. Born in 1989, Umurerwa lived through the Rwandan genocide in 1994 and it’s aftermath, turning to modelling as an escape, one that quickly became her passion.
After nine years of modelling in her home country, she was finally scouted and made the move to Canada where she was signed by Next Models in Canada and Ford Models in New York and joined the troupe of East African models like Ajak Deng, Iman, Liya Kebede and Alek Wek changing face of beauty in Africa.
But Happy Umurerwa has always honoured invitations to walk for African designers. She signed a contract with South Africa’s Fusion models, and is known for her efforts to help other Rwandese models find contracts and modelling work. A super woman if you ever saw one.
In honor of International Women’s Day we present you our favorite Happy J. Umurerwa moments.
This photo of Happy walking for South African menswear designer Chulaap Swannapha, proves once and for all what a man can do, a woman will annihilate!
Start the day with a smile! Good morning everyone. #Bethankfulforlife ✌️❤️
A photo posted by Happy (@happyjumurerwa) on
This photo of Happy living up to her name wearing the cutest fro.
But she isn’t afraid to own her blackness.
A photo posted by Happy (@happyjumurerwa) on
A literal Queen of the plains, shooting for jewellery label Pembe.
This model selfie of Happy with other models of colours from her Canadian agency.
It’s your road,and yours alone. Others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you. #Line
A photo posted by Happy (@happyjumurerwa) on
Ever seen anyone more at home on a runway?
This behind the scenes photo of Happy on an Oscar themed shoot giving us all bronzed goddess envy.
A photo posted by Happy (@happyjumurerwa) on
This gorgeous photo of Happy with her mother. Now we know where she gets her looks from.
Just a baby girl at the end of the day.