Ololade Ayelabola, a Nigerian model, has made history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance ever walked on a catwalk by a model. In October, she walked a staggering 125.11 km (77.74 miles) during a groundbreaking fashion show in Lagos.
At 26, Ololade’s record-breaking achievement wasn’t just about distance—it was about inclusivity and diversity. The fashion show, which featured a wide range of models, celebrated people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. The lineup included individuals with albinism, vitiligo, tribal marks, and plus-size models, all coming together to promote self-expression and the idea that everyone should embrace who they are.
“I came up with a theme of inclusivity and diversity. I wanted to create a runway where everyone could participate, showcase their talent, and inspire others to stay true to themselves,” Ololade shared.
Though she is now a successful model with six years of experience, Ololade’s journey wasn’t always easy. Early in her career, after auditioning for Lagos Fashion Week, she was told she wasn’t tall enough for the runway. “The judges told me, ‘You walk well, but you are not tall enough,’ and that broke my heart,” she recalled. “I thought about all the talented models who are told no because of their height or skin conditions, and how they face stereotypes and barriers in life.”
Determined to change that narrative, Ololade decided to create a runway that would break free from these limitations and give others the opportunity to shine.
Her record-breaking catwalk took five days of relentless walking, which she prepared for with intense training. Throughout the event, Ololade looked stunning in a series of bright, attention-grabbing outfits, many of which were designed and crafted in Nigeria.
Despite the physical pain and exhaustion, including bandages wrapped around her feet, Ololade kept going, reminding herself that the journey was not just for her but for everyone she aimed to empower. “Every step I took on the catwalk was a step against the stereotypes and challenges we face in the fashion industry,” she explained. “Seeing people leave their workplaces to cheer me on kept me going.”
Reflecting on her Guinness World Record achievement, she said, “It feels incredible, overwhelming, and amazing to hold a Guinness World Records title. A few months ago, I was planning with my team, and now a dream has been fulfilled.”
Ololade’s message to aspiring dreamers is clear: “Your dreams are valid. To all the dreamers, risk-takers, and record-chasers out there, go break some records. But just don’t come for mine!” she added with a laugh.
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