"In fashion, there's a lack of strong male images. And there's a huge lack of strong African American images. I noticed over the past thirteen years, Ralph and those guys have used guys that looked similar to me. And I was happy for those guys, but eventually I said, 'Enough is enough, I'm just going to go in and take my job back.'"
About Tyson Beckford
Tyson Beckford — Life and Legacy
Tyson Beckford is a prominent figure in the modeling world, recognized for breaking barriers as one of the first African American male supermodels. His distinctive style and charisma have made him a household name, particularly through his work with Ralph Lauren and various fashion campaigns. Beckford's philosophy centers around authenticity and resilience, as he often states, 'I am who I am,' which reflects his commitment to embracing his identity in a challenging industry. His quotes reveal a deep understanding of the pressures faced by models, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external expectations. For instance, his perspective on success highlights that it is not merely about fame or recognition but about personal integrity and self-acceptance. Beckford's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, as he navigated the complexities of the fashion world while advocating for diversity and representation. Today, his insights continue to resonate, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and strive for authenticity in their own lives. Beckford's impact extends beyond modeling, as he encourages a dialogue about identity and the challenges of self-acceptance in a visually driven society.
Quote collection
Tyson Beckford quotes
4 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I thank God every day. That's all I can do. That, and try to help all those other guys who are trying to do what I did."
"You can get a new phone or new trainers (sneakers) but you've only got one body so you have to look after it. I don't smoke, or drink a lot of alcohol, and I train almost every day."
"I mean, a lot of people don't realize it, but fashion is one of the most racial industries left out there now. Radio and music aren't. Television and movies aren't. Even commercials now are showing interracial couples. You see a lot of diversity in TV shows, but you don't see that in fashion. You think there would be some, because the consumer is of all colors and all shades. But you don't see that in fashion."