Personal Details :
- Full Name: Philomena Kwao
- Date of Birth: July 19, 1989
- Place of Birth: Deptford, London, United Kingdom
- Nationality: British (of Ghanaian descent)
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown
- Body Type: Plus-size
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Master’s in International Health Management from Imperial College London
- Languages Spoken: English
Social Media Presence :
- Instagram: @philomenakwao
- Linktree: Linktree Profile
Career Overview :
Philomena Kwao began her modeling career in the UK after winning a plus-size modeling competition organized by Evans, Models1, and Cosmopolitan. Her striking features, including her dark skin, shaved head, and statuesque figure, quickly caught the attention of major brands and designers. After completing her master’s degree in International Health Management, she moved to New York to pursue modeling full-time. Philomena has since worked with top fashion brands including Torrid, Lane Bryant, Nordstrom, and Evans. She also became a recognizable face in the “Swimsuits For All” campaign alongside Ashley Graham, notably appearing in the 2016 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. In addition to high-profile commercial work, she has walked the runway for Jean-Paul Gaultier and has been featured in publications like Essence, Pride Magazine, Cosmopolitan UK, and more. Her career is marked by a commitment to diversity, representation, and advocacy, making her a leading voice in reshaping beauty standards in the fashion industry.
Personal Life & Interests :
Philomena Kwao was born and raised in Deptford, London, to Ghanaian parents who instilled in her strong values of resilience and cultural pride. After completing her education in Economics and International Health Management at Imperial College London, she decided to pursue modeling full-time and relocated to New York City. Outside of modeling, Philomena is passionate about advocating for body positivity, diversity, and empowerment. She founded The Lily Project, a mentorship initiative connecting youth with positive role models, and serves as a global ambassador for Women for Women International, supporting women’s rights and maternal health. In her personal life, she enjoys writing and has published essays challenging beauty norms; she also loves traveling, speaking at conferences, and engaging with communities that promote inclusivity and self-acceptance.
Net Worth :
As of 2024, Philomena Kwao’s net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 and $1 million, primarily earned through her work as a model for inclusive brands like Torrid, Lane Bryant, Nordstrom, and *Sports Illustrated* Swimsuit campaigns. Additional roles include brand ambassadorships and writing projects.
Awards & Achievements :
- Winner, UK Plus‑Size Modeling Competition (2012): Victorious in a nationwide contest organized by Evans, Models1, and Cosmopolitan UK—launching her career in modeling.
- GUBA Rising Star Award (2012): Honored among British Ghanaian achievers as a Rising Star at the Ghana UK-Based Achievement Awards.
- Brand Ambassador, Torrid (2013): Became Torrid’s ambassador and led campaigns for major retailers including Nordstrom, Lane Bryant, and Evans.
- Vogue Recognition & SI Swimsuit Feature: Celebrated in Vogue’s top-5 curve model list (2016) and featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit campaigns.
- Jean‑Paul Gaultier & SI Campaigns: Walked for Jean‑Paul Gaultier and starred alongside Ashley Graham in SI’s “Swimsuits For All” #SwimSexy campaign.
- Philanthropic & Writing Impact: Founded The Lily Project, authored essays on diversity, and serves as a Women for Women International Ambassador.
Fun Facts :
- Philomena holds a Master’s degree in International Health Management from Imperial College London.
- She was discovered after a friend entered her into a plus-size modeling competition without her knowing.
- She was the first Black British plus-size model to gain major international recognition.
- Philomena is known for her signature shaved head and unapologetic embrace of her natural beauty.
- She’s passionate about writing and has authored essays on diversity and representation in fashion and beauty.
- She founded a mentorship initiative called The Lily Project to support and inspire young women.