Bruck Tekle: Paving the way for Eritrean Male Models

Bruck Tekle: Paving the way for Eritrean Male Models

When it comes to representing Eritrea in the competitive modeling world, Eritrean ladies have held a firm monopoly over this industry. From up-and-coming talents like Grace Mahary to the established model-turned-actress Zeudi Araya, Eritrean females continue to make their presence felt.

Yet, that same presence isn't being matched by their male counterparts. The biggest hurdles facing guys is they just don't get the respect, plaudits and financial incentives as their female partners get. In fact, a 2008 study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveled women working full-time in the modeling industry earned 80% of what men earned.^[1]

Moreover, outdated social conditioning may be playing a role. For instance, while there are a number of beauty and fashion pageants dedicated for women in Eritrea, there are none for the guys. As far as Eritrean cultures are concerned, it may seem as if fashion and modeling are female activities and one that males need not apply.

Despite these social challenges, young Eritreans in the diaspora are paving the way in reversing these trends. One Eritrean taking a leading role by example is a New York City resident by the name of Bruck Tekle. Born in Krefeld, Germany to Tzehainesh Gebreselassie and Tewolde Tekle,  Bruck has been featured on a number of magazine and fashion runways, with his latest performance coming in two weeks ago at BET's rip the runway 2012.

Yet even Bruck was not looking to become a model. The 29-year-old moved to New York with basketball ambitions. After failing to make a team, someone simply discovered him and the rest is history.

With Bruck's successful modeling career gaining momentum, more Eritrean guys may start taken modeling a bit more seriously or at the very least, give it a shot.

Bruck Tekle - PhotoCredit: sophotography

Eritrean model Bruck Tekle

Bruck Tekle at BET's rip the runway 2012


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[1] Bureau of Labor Statistics, via dailyfiance, 2008 Sponsored Ads