How Ben Braker uses modelling to champion social causes and drive change

From mental health and anxiety to abductions and girls’ education, his mission is to inspire change through the power of fashion.

Ben’s journey in the modelling world has been nothing short of remarkable. Rising from humble beginnings, he has become a trailblazer, gaining international recognition and earning accolades along the way.

In a recent one-on-one interview with The Beat, Ben expresses his desire for dynamic changes in Tanzania’s modelling landscape.

“We need more modelling shows and greater inclusion of models in government events and commercials,” he urges, emphasising the cultural richness of Tanzania.

Tanzania is home to a myriad of tribes, including the Maasai, Chagga, Ngoni, Nyakyusa, and Hehe, each with its own unique heritage.

“Our diverse tribes, like the Maasai and Chagga, have unique cultures that could be showcased through fashion. Using both male and female models to showcase this diversity could be transformative,” adds Ben, highlighting how fashion can serve as a powerful medium for cultural promotion.

He believes that the modelling industry should reflect the country’s richness and complexity, offering a platform for stories that often go untold.

However, Ben is not only focused on representation; he is also keenly aware of the financial challenges faced by emerging models in Tanzania.

“Musicians often overlook us. We’re not paid as professionals, and this needs to change,” he asserts, urging relevant authorities to recognise and support the aspirations of young models striving for international success.

His call for better remuneration and opportunities underscores the systemic issues within the industry that hinder aspiring talents.

One of Ben Braker’s notable campaigns focusses on mental health and anxiety and the importance of self-care. He has harnessed the power of fashion to shed light on these pressing societal issues.

Through compelling photo sessions, he portrays the struggles and triumphs associated with mental health, aiming to foster understanding and compassion.

“In addition to my long-standing career as a fashion model and starring in numerous music videos, I've made it a priority to use my art as a platform to shed light on the ongoing challenges facing society,” he shares.

What sets Ben apart is his commitment to addressing these issues without seeking financial gain.

“I don’t wish to get paid for anything; I just want to see the changes in society,” he adds, illustrating his genuine desire to make a difference. His work serves as a reminder that fashion can transcend mere aesthetics, becoming a vehicle for social awareness and change.

In addition to mental health advocacy, Ben has tackled the sensitive issue of abductions, which has become alarmingly prevalent in Tanzania.

His photography often features powerful imagery that draws attention to this issue, encouraging dialogue and action.

“Lately, we’ve seen a lot of troubling events, from child abductions to people disappearing. The reality is, as models, we serve as a reflection of society—a mirror through which others view us,” he explains.

Further adds, “By using our platform to raise awareness about these issues, we can play a pivotal role in addressing and helping to reduce the challenges our communities face.”

Ben’s dedication to social causes extends to education, particularly concerning young girls and menstruation. He believes that understanding menstruation is crucial for empowering young women.

“Menstruation issues for female students are extremely important because they directly affect their health, education, and well-being,” he elaborates.

“During menstruation, some students miss school due to a lack of sanitary products or hygiene challenges, or the fear of shame and stigma. This can impact their academic and mental development.”

To address these issues, Ben often incorporates menstruation-related themes into his projects. He emphasises the need for open discussions about menstrual hygiene, urging everyone, including parents, teachers, and male students, to recognise the importance of menstrual health.

“Everyone needs to be educated about the right to access sanitary products and ensure that school environments are supportive of female students during their periods,” he adds.

Ben Braker’s commitment to using his modelling career for social good is evident in every project he undertakes. His goal is to show that fashion can be more than just a visual spectacle; it can be a force for social change.

As an international model, Ben has graced stages and earned nominations across various awards, including the Tanzania Model Youth Award and the Nigeria Icon Fashion Award. His appearances in music videos, such as Darassa’s “Hasara Roho” and Chinbees’s “Pepeta,” further solidify his place in the industry.

In a landscape where models like Flavian Matata, Nelly Kamwelu, and Lota Mollel are making their mark, Ben Braker stands out as a pioneer in blending fashion with advocacy.

His work continues to demonstrate that the runway can be a powerful platform for addressing and raising awareness about critical social issues.

As he navigates his career, Ben remains committed to inspiring others and championing the causes he cares about, proving that modelling can indeed be a catalyst for change.