By Danila Cambanco
The fashion industry, like any other industry, can be safe for young people – if the right precautions and measures are taken to ensure their safety.
Safety in the fashion industry is something that has been hotly debated recently, with issues ranging from body image stereotypes to cultural appropriation constantly at the centre of attention. However, one issue that hasn’t received as much attention as it perhaps should is the potential for sexual exploitation that some young people experience.
Over the years, there have been numerous reports of sexual abuse and harassment in the fashion world, with models often being the victims.
Felmanha Correia a 23-year-old model from Portugal, said: “It’s safer when you have an agency representing you, because they are the link between the model and the client and with other international agencies, so it’s safer, especially for models who are just starting out and need more guidance.
“However, when you’re talking about the fashion industry, the big brands, the castings are more competitive, and in order to be chosen, they have to really like your image, or on the other hand they’ll only accept you if you have wedges, or the closest contact with the client.”
Many leading figures in the industry, including photographers, designers and executives, have been accused of inappropriate behaviour towards vulnerable young women and men.
London Metropolitan University Student Union President, Awesome Olasope, said some modelling agents think they deserve something from their models. Listen to what he has to say here:
These cases show the power at play in the industry, with powerful figures using their influence to take advantage of young models looking to advance their careers, but the dominance of abuse in the fashion industry is not surprising, given the nature of the business.
To prevent such situations, it is essential that companies adopt policies to avoid harassment, discrimination and other unsafe practices. And young people who work in the fashion industry must also be aware of their rights and feel empowered to speak out against any unsafe or unethical behaviour.
Listen here to what student Paul Buttrey, 20, has to say:
Photo by Danila Cambanco
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