Woman Went Viral for Modeling on the Streets of Nigeria. Then She Was Called by Chanel to Walk Paris Fashion Week

**Rachel Ojuromi Makes Striking Runway Debut at Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2027 Show**

Rachel Ojuromi, a rising content creator and model from Lagos, Nigeria, has made headlines after her recent debut on the runway for Chanel during Paris Fashion Week on 5 October 2023. This opportunity comes in the wake of her viral success modelling outfits inspired by the fashion house’s Métiers d’Art 2026 collection, which she showcased in her local streets.

Initially discouraged by the fashion industry, Ojuromi was once told by a model scout that she would never walk a runway. However, her persistence and dedication have led her to realise her dreams against the odds. Standing out from the crowd, she gained traction online when her friend Debby Fasingha created stunning replicas of Chanel’s designs for Ojuromi, which she flaunted in videos shared across social media platforms.

Ojuromi’s ascension to the runway is largely attributed to her creative expression and authentic representation of modern fashion. When Matthieu Blazy, Chanel’s artistic director, discovered her video, which showcased her flair for fashion, he instantly recognised her potential. His comment on her post, simply stating “Everything,” exemplified his admiration and set the stage for Ojuromi’s subsequent journey with the iconic brand.

Reflecting on her experience, Ojuromi shared her thoughts with Vogue, stating, “You can dream, you can believe in something, and it can just work out.” Her viral video, which garnered over two million views, serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. “It’s a series of compounding events. It’s never overnight. It’s all your life you work towards something,” she asserted, highlighting the significance of dedication in achieving her goals.

During Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2027 showcase, Ojuromi wore a striking ensemble, featuring a yellow and grey tweed shirt and a coordinating midi skirt, labelled as Look 73. Her appreciation for the design was evident as she remarked, “When I saw my look, I was like, ‘It’s a sign. This is a sign.’” She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to embrace her individuality while representing the brand.

In an interview with BBC Africa, Ojuromi opened up about her past experiences with rejection and highlighted the importance of resilience. “I was speaking to a model scout and he said, ‘Oh, you will never do runway.’” Despite the discouragement, landing a prestigious position with Chanel altered her perception of her potential: “Oh, it is possible for my dreams to come true,” she acknowledged.

Since Matthieu Blazy assumed his role as Chanel’s artistic director in April 2025, he has made considerable strides in promoting fresh talent within the fashion industry. His vision has brought forward models like Bhavitha Mandava, who was scouted while riding the New York City subway and later featured in Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2026 show. Both Ojuromi and Mandava embody a new wave of models who challenge traditional standards and redefine what it means to be a muse in contemporary fashion.

Beyond just individual success stories, Ojuromi reflects a broader shift within the fashion world towards inclusivity and diversity. Her rise to fame resonates with aspiring models globally who face similar challenges. By sharing her journey, she inspires others to pursue their passions, regardless of the hurdles they may confront.

As Chanel continues to evolve under Blazy’s leadership, it becomes increasingly clear that the fashion house values authenticity and modernity. Ojuromi’s debut not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also represents a compelling narrative about breaking barriers. For many, her story is a reminder that dreams, no matter how unattainable they may seem, can indeed become a reality with hard work and an unwavering belief in oneself.

As she embarks on this new chapter, the fashion community eagerly anticipates Ojuromi’s next steps, hoping to see more from this talented model who is undoubtedly making her mark on the runway.