Supermodel Eunice Olumide urges black creatives to pursue careers in the arts

Scottish supermodel and activist Eunice Olumide is in Glasgow today, encouraging more black creatives to enter the arts industry.

The Edinburgh-born model, who has worked with global fashion brands like Chanel, Alexander McQueen, and Mulberry, is speaking at the Be United event at the University of Glasgow.

The initiative aims to promote inclusivity and tackle underrepresentation in creative industries.

Olumide, known for her advocacy on diversity and social justice, says she hopes to inspire the next generation of black artists, designers, and performers.

She told Clyde 1: "I'm really looking forward to this event.

"Organisations like Be United are vital to the development and diversity of our community.

"This particular topic is crucial to my own philosophy in life, and it's what I've based a lot of the work in my career around.

"For me, it's not just about diversity in terms of ethnic minorities - but it's about creating equity.

"It's about class, background and age too. My goal is to create equity in the arts.

"Opportunities are also needed for people from working-class backgrounds.

"Something that affected me wasn't a lack of qualifications or experience, but when you're going into a vocation in creative industries, there can be an expectation that you work for little money.

"That might only be for a period of six months or so, but if you come from a low income family, it can often be almost impossible for you to support yourself.

"I think Government has work to do in ensuring people have access to grants and bursaries."

Be United is an organisation dedicated to empowering black and minority ethnic individuals in the creative sector, working to provide opportunities and support networks in industries that have historically lacked diversity.

The event brings together industry leaders, creatives, and students to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the arts.

Organisers say progress is being made, but there’s still work to do.

A spokesperson for Be United said: “The arts should be a space for everyone, regardless of background. Events like this help challenge stereotypes, open doors, and inspire the next wave of creative talent.”

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