IN a bold stride against exclusion and bias, 26-year-old Nigerian model Ololade Ayelabola has set a Guinness World Record for the longest distance catwalk by a model, walking 125.11 kilometres (77.74 miles) across Lagos to challenge beauty standards and promote inclusion.
The marathon fashion walk, completed last October, was far more than a feat of endurance — it was a call to embrace self-acceptance. Ayelabola, a final-year computer science student at the University of Lagos, turned her disappointment from rejection into a runway revolution.
From rejection to record
After six years in the industry, Ololade was rejected from a prestigious Fashion Week audition for being ‘not tall enough’. Instead of giving up, she channelled the pain into purpose.
‘I went home and started thinking about all the models who’d been told no because they aren’t tall enough or have a skin condition,’ she told Guinness World Records.
The result: a five-day catwalk through Lagos, with Ololade donning striking, Africa-themed outfits and flanked by models with albinism, vitiligo, tribal marks, and plus-size bodies — a bold counter to mainstream fashion’s narrow ideals.
Cheered by Lagos and beyond
At a reception in her honour on May 13, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Ololade’s determination and impact.
‘Her dedication and talent exemplify the incredible potential of our youth and the creative spirit that thrives in Lagos,’ he said. ‘I look forward to seeing how her achievements inspire others to pursue their passions and dreams.’
Despite walking for hours each day — often with bandages on her feet to dull the pain — Ololade stayed focused on the mission: to create a runway that welcomed everyone.
‘For every step I took on the catwalk, I was taking a walk against stereotypes and challenges we face in the model and fashion industry,’ she said.
A message to dreamers
‘This is to tell everyone that your dream is valid,’ Ololade declared. ‘To all dreamers, chasers, risk takers out there — go break some record.’ Then, with a wink, she added: ‘But don’t come towards my record.’
Her record-breaking walk wasn’t just about fashion — it was about defiance, diversity, and the courage to challenge outdated norms. And with her feet blistered but her vision unshaken, Ololade Ayelabola has walked herself into global recognition — and walked others into hope.
