In an exclusive chat with My Afrika Magazine, soldier and rising star model, Shaun Reed pulls back the curtain on a career that’s as unexpected as it is inspiring. Born and raised in Pretoria, Gauteng, Reed wears many hats:soldier, model, influencer, collaborator, coach, educator and he believes modeling is less about posing for the camera and more about telling stories that lift others up.

From his humble start in the military to his breakthrough on the fashion scene, Reed’s path is a testament to the power of discipline, perseverance, and a genuine love for helping others feel confident in their skin. Below, he shares the twists and turns that led him from the barracks to the runway, the moment a wildcard changed everything, and the personal routines that keep him at the top of his game.

TR: Hey Shaun, can you introduce yourself to My Afrika Magazine audience?
SR: I’m Shaun Reed, born and raised in Pretoria, Gauteng. I wear a few hats: soldier, model, influencer, collaborator, coach, educator, and someone who loves helping others feel confident in their skin. Modeling for me is more than photosit’s a way to tell stories and lift others up.

TR: How did you venture into modeling, which many consider an exclusive sector?
SR: My modeling career began last year; I just tried it out but didn’t really get anywhere. At the start of this year I entered one of my friend’s pageants, but later exited because I had a lot on my plate. Later, at an event I was invited to, Johan—the CEO of The Opulent Model South Africa—gave me a wildcard that sent me straight through to the finals of the Next Opulent Model, where I won the brand‑ambassador title.

TR: What did it mean to you when you were elected as a brand ambassador of the Next Opulent Model?
SR: Becoming a brand ambassador happened out of the blue. During the competition I collaborated with all the partners of Next Opulent Model, and that was more fun for me than work! It made me the brand ambassador for Next Opulent Model.

TR: Can you share with us part of your greatest achievements in the industry since you took your first step?
SR: Everything happened this year, from my first collab to my first title—it all happened in 2025, including collaborations with media agencies like Be Influenced and Soulful Media, being the brand ambassador for Next Opulent Model, and taking part in the biggest model and fitness competition in the country.

TR: Why did you take part in the Next Opulent and can you share your experience?
SR: Competing in the Next Opulent Model event was intense and humbling; I felt a mix of nerves and gratitude as I stood among so much talent. Winning the brand‑ambassador title changed things practically and emotionally—it gave me visibility, new connections, and a reminder that preparation meets opportunity.

TR: You are prominently known for your grooming and maintaining your looks—why is it important?
SR: Grooming matters because it’s respect for yourself and your craft. For me it’s simple: consistent skincare, regular hair and beard upkeep, sleep, hydration, diet and exercise keep a small kit for shoots, and I stick to routines.

TR: Shaun, you are not shy to be in front of your camera, what’s the recipe?
SR: When I’m in front of the camera I think about story, breath, and intention. I ground myself with a few deep breaths, remind myself of the mood we’re creating, and move slowly into expression. Preparation includes studying the brief, warming up my body, and connecting with the photographer so we’re making the same picture together. But mostly having fun!

TR: Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring models?
SR: Be yourself and bring yourself to the stage there isn’t another you! Be authentic and have fun! They want you, not someone else!.