Introducing Rethabile Koro

Raised in Soweto, her story begins in a lively, close-knit environment that grounded her in family, culture, and a deep sense of self. Today, that same foundation travels with her across borders, as she builds an international modelling career in Vietnam.

What started as a passing suggestion from friends has evolved into something far more intentional. After navigating rejection and self-doubt, Rethabile Koro carved her own path into the modelling industry, one defined by patience, discipline, and an unwavering belief in her vision. Now working on a global stage, she represents a new generation of South African talent: rooted, self-aware, and unafraid to dream beyond geography.

By Khaya Mnisi

Rethabile Koro for Myeza. Photograph by Meluleki Nxumalo. All Images courtesy of Rethabile Koro

Let’s start at the beginning. For readers meeting you for the first time, who is Rethabile Koro? Where are you from, and what kind of environment did you grow up in?

I’m a South African model from Soweto, Johannesburg, currently working internationally in Vietnam. I grew up in a lively and loving environment, surrounded by family. I was one of those abantwana baka gogo, the grandchildren who were always outside playing, getting a little naughty, and enjoying the freedom of childhood.

At the same time, I come from a humble background that taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of dreaming beyond your circumstances. Those early years shaped who I am today, curious, expressive, and deeply connected to my roots, with a strong sense of pride in where I come from.

How did modelling first enter your life? Was it something you imagined for yourself growing up, or did someone notice you and introduce you to the industry?

Modelling first entered my life through people asking if I was a model. Friends would also say the same thing, encouraging me to try it. At first, I hadn’t really imagined it for myself, in fact, it wasn’t something I paid much attention to, as I had always seen myself becoming a fashion designer.

Over time, though, I started to wonder if maybe I should give it a chance. As I got older, I began applying to different agencies but I faced many rejections along the way. That period pushed me to take a step back and work on myself. I started doing test shoots with different photographers and took time to research what the industry truly requires.

When I felt ready again, I came across a photographer named Lucas Scorgie, who had posted on Instagram offering free polaroid shoots. I reached out, and he said yes. I remember going to his studio and taking those polaroids, those images ended up opening doors for me and played a significant role in shaping my journey.

Eventually, I got signed to my first modelling agency in South Africa, Model Republic. Being signed meant so much to me after so many rejections, it felt like my first real breakthrough. Through them, I was able to gain experience, meet new people, and begin to understand the industry more deeply.

Although I was grateful for where I started, I knew I wanted more for myself. I had always dreamed of becoming a supermodel, travelling the world, and building an international career beyond South Africa. Eventually, one opportunity opened the door for me, and that led to me being signed internationally with AGRAA Model Management and that’s when my journey in modelling truly began.

When you’re not working, when you’re simply being yourself, how would you describe the way you dress? What does that personal style say about who you are?

When I’m not working, my style is relaxed and authentic. I enjoy simple, comfortable clothing with a touch of personality, something effortless but still expressive. I believe style should reflect who you are rather than trying too hard. For me, it’s about confidence, simplicity, and feeling comfortable in my own skin.

At the same time, my style reflects different parts of who I am. There’s a balance between ease and intention, whether it’s a simple pair of jeans and a jacket or something more structured. It always comes back to feeling grounded in myself and embracing my individuality.

At this stage in your career, what standards have you set for yourself to build something sustainable, not just a moment, but a long-term career?

I take my career very seriously because I understand that modelling is more than just appearance it’s professionalism, discipline, and long-term vision. I’m very intentional about how I approach my work, making sure that everything I do aligns with the kind of career I want to build.

I focus on staying consistent, learning from every opportunity, and surrounding myself with people who support growth. I also think it’s important to think beyond the moment, whether that’s building relationships, developing new skills, or expanding into other creative spaces. My goal is not just short-term success, but to build a strong and lasting international presence.

You’ve already had international experience early in your career, including working in Vietnam. What has that experience been like for you, both professionally and personally?

Working in Vietnam has been an incredible experience. It has allowed me to meet talented creatives from different backgrounds and gain a deeper understanding of how fashion operates on a global scale. What stood out to me the most is how fast-paced and structured the industry is here, there’s a strong sense of ambition, and everything feels very intentional, from the way shoots are executed to how teams collaborate.

At the same time, the industry is constantly evolving, with emerging designers pushing boundaries and experimenting with modern silhouettes and new creative directions. That balance between structure and innovation is something I found really inspiring.

Compared to South Africa, I’ve noticed that the approach to fashion here is very detail-oriented, especially on set. There’s a strong focus on precision from styling to posing and everything is executed with a high level of discipline. At the same time, there’s a growing openness to diversity, which has been really encouraging to experience.

One thing that really opened my perspective was learning how much the Vietnamese government has invested in the fashion industry, particularly on the manufacturing and business side. You can feel that structure when you’re working here, it’s organised, growing quickly, and full of opportunity.

In contrast, coming from South Africa, I feel like our fashion scene is more rooted in culture and storytelling. There’s a strong sense of identity and creative expression, even if the industry itself isn’t always as structured. Experiencing both has given me a deeper appreciation of how fashion can exist in different ways both as an industry and as a form of cultural expression.

Professionally, this experience has helped me grow, adapt, and become more versatile. Personally, it has opened my mind to new cultures and perspectives. Representing my country here reminds me that I’m not only standing for myself, I’m also carrying my family and South Africa with me. That responsibility motivates me to always show up with pride and give my best.

What did it feel like arriving in that environment for the first time, a different country and industry, and how were you received?

Arriving in Vietnam was incredibly exciting for me. It was my first time on an airplane and my first international trip, so everything felt new. I remember looking out the window during the flight and thinking about how far I was going from home, it was a very emotional moment for me.

It felt like everything I had been working towards was finally happening, the international modelling career I had always envisioned for myself. In that moment, all the rejection and all the times I wasn’t given a chance to step into certain spaces felt worth it. I felt like I had finally made it.

The weather took some time to adjust to because it’s very hot and humid here, but the people have been incredibly kind and welcoming. I remember arriving at the airport and people started taking pictures of me, I really felt like a celebrity.

The fashion industry here is also growing quickly, with both emerging designers and established brands continuously seeking new talent. I’m especially grateful to my agency here, Nixx Model, because they’ve really helped elevate my career. Through them, I’ve been able to work with amazing clients, appear in prestigious publications like Vogue, and truly live my dream of being an international model.

Are there other forms of creative expression that are important to you outside of modelling?

Yes, absolutely. I want to be more than just a face, I want to contribute ideas, energy, and perspective to the creative process. That’s one of the reasons I’m also a photographer and creative director. I love storytelling through visuals, and being behind the camera allows me to explore creativity in a different way. It gives me the opportunity to shape narratives, not just be part of them.

After a long or busy day of work, how do you usually unwind?

After a long day, I like to relax and reset. Sometimes that means listening to music, spending time reflecting on the day, or simply taking quiet time for myself.

Modelling can be physically and mentally demanding, so I believe balance is very important. Taking time to rest allows me to recharge and show up fully for the next day.

Looking back at the beginning of your journey, what have been some of the biggest lessons the industry has taught you so far?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is patience and persistence. The industry can be competitive and unpredictable, but consistency and self-belief are essential.

I’ve also learned that my uniqueness is my strength. Over time, I’ve come to understand the importance of embracing who I am and staying true to where I come from. That sense of identity is what continues to ground me, no matter where I am in the world.

Coming from South Africa and working internationally has shown me that dreams don’t have borders. If you stay committed to your vision and remain authentic, opportunities will find you anywhere in the world

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