“My name is Jeannine Kambere. I’m of Congolese descent and I am 20 years old. My brother (John Kambere, 19 years old) and I have been involved in modelling since the beginning of 2014. Since then we have walked the D&M fashion shows in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane. I competed in ‘Miss Malaika Australia 2014’ and was among the top 5 finalists. This year I am in the running for the ‘Miss Africa 2015’ title in Victoria.

I’m still new to the fashion industry and even though modelling has always been my passion, I did not get the privilege to experience my dream when I was younger. Living in the refugee camp reduced my confidence of becoming a model and it wasn’t until 2008 when I arrived in NSW, when my dream began to seem more realistic. Like most African parents, my mother is very serious about education. I respected her and completed my studies, graduated with a HSC last year. I strongly feel that the time has come for me to shine and share my beauty, values and culture with the rest of the world.”