Daphne Selfe, at 88
years of age, is the oldest professional model in the world. She has been
modelling since 1949. The Guiness Book of Records awarded Daphne the title of
Oldest Professional Fashion Model in 2014.
Born in London in
1928 she grew up in an era very different from today. She was raised at a time when it was common
for many women to relinquish thoughts of a career when they married. But Daphne
has always chosen to do things that she enjoyed, such as training horses – one of
her first jobs. Her work in a department store led, unexpectedly, to
a modelling career. She is now also an author, with her book The Way We Wore: A Life in Clothes (2015).
What job advice would
she give for the older woman – or man? For her, age makes no difference. ‘’I
do believe there is the perfect job for everyone and this can be different
jobs or careers at different phases of your life … My modelling work has been a
huge blessing in my life and keeps me busy and feeling useful and appreciated,
plus I get to wear beautiful clothes, go to amazing locations, and meet
wonderful people.’’
Daphne’s job advice
for the older person is:-
- Follow your heart
- Be aware of your natural gifts
- Consider what you love to do or would like to do – it’s never too late
- Be realistic about your current situation/responsibilities and what will suit
- Embrace change and do your best
- Take on unlikely opportunities and see where they lead
- Be brave and courageous
- You can do anything that you want – you decide
- This is it – it’s not a dress rehearsal
- Why retire if what you do brings you joy and satisfaction
- Don’t take any notice of existing conventions and norms (when you model at 88 years old you can say that!).
MARTINA NICOLLS is an international
aid and development consultant, and the author of:- The Shortness of
Life: A Mongolian Lament (2015), Liberia’s Deadest Ends (2012), Bardot’s Comet
(2011), Kashmir on a Knife-Edge (2010) and The Sudan Curse (2009).
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