BEFORE THE RUNWAY
With an eye for artistic fashion and a passion for storytelling, Amoo Mercy is embracing the next chapter of her modeling journey.
Written by Brianna Abrielle Kuglar
Photography Contributed by David Adeniyi Photography, David Mylez and Explicit Visuals
June 30, 2026
Photo by David Adeniyi Photography
For every model who stars in a campaign, editorial spread or runway, there is a beginning that comes long before the spotlight.
For rising model Amoo Mercy, that beginning came two years ago through a collaborative photoshoot that would set her on that very path.
“My first professional photoshoot was about two years ago,” Mercy says. “My mum actually did my makeup. It was a collaborative work and it was really fun.”
Rather than one defining breakthrough her journey unfolded gradually. It wasn’t until after her third photoshoot that she realized modeling was something she wanted to pursue seriously.
Although she has yet to make her runway debut, it remains something she eagerly anticipates as she begins her journey into that. For now though, she continues to build her portfolio while developing the skills that transform a photoshoot into a visual narrative.
Photo by Explicit Visuals
For Mercy, modeling is far more than posing for a camera. Every image begins with understanding the story behind it.
“I approach telling a story by understanding the concept, mood or emotion behind the shoot,” she explains. “Then I focus on connecting that mood with confidence and body language.”
That appreciation for storytelling extends to the designers and photographers who inspire her. Drawn to artistic and expressive work, she cites Chung Thanh Phong, Iris van Herpen, Robert Wun, CuteSaint, Zimmerman, Giorgio Armani and Veekee James among her current favorites.
Similarly, local photographers such as Peterstone, Chibuzo and Tosin Babarinde have captured her attention through imagery that communicates emotion through light, color and atmosphere.
“Their work is literally art in human form,” she says.
When it comes to personal style, Mercy resists putting herself into a box.
“I don’t think I have a fixed personal style,” she says. “I’m very fluid, and it depends on my mood that day.”
Despite modeling professionally, she doesn’t necessarily use fashion as a direct form of self-expression. Instead, she views it as a powerful creative language capable of communicating confidence, elegance, sensuality and personality.
Photo by David Mylez
“Even though I’m personally quite simple and reserved, I enjoy how clothing and styling can transform a mood or tell a story.”
As a Nigerian woman, Mercy finds inspiration both within her cultural heritage and in fashion from around the world. She appreciates the way contemporary fashion allows cultures and influences to intersect while still remaining connected to identity and tradition.
That balance between personal authenticity and creative exploration is also reflected in the industry changes she finds most exciting.
“What excites me the most is how open, honest and outspoken models-especially the ones of our generation-are about important topics on hair, body image and being treated as more than just a mannequin.
For Mercy, the future of modeling is about recognizing that models are people first. We are people with voices and passions, not just visuals.”
Photo by David Mylez