LIEKEILA’AKATA Tapua’ialupe Iakopo, a daughter of the Marianas, has taken social media by storm after breaking the glass ceiling for Micronesians, modeling in luxury brand Jacquemus’ “Le Splash” show and being published in Vogue, a renowned giant in the fashion industry.
Iakopo, who is of Samoan and Mortlockese descent, was recently signed by Hawai’i’s top modeling agency, Renew, and was immediately thrown into the fashion world, modeling a piece designed by none other than designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, known for being the king of making a splash.
The French fashion house traveled to Hawai’i for this show, marking its very first show outside of France.
In attendance were some of the biggest names in the music and fashion industries, including K-Pop girl group Blackpink’s Jennie, American singer-songwriter SZA, and influencer Bretman Rock.
In an interview with Variety, Iakopo said her interest in modeling began at an early age.
“I was naturally comfortable around cameras as my confidence was instilled in me by my mother. She made it a mission to make sure she built me and my siblings up strong in every way. Later on, I was asked to do photoshoots for local brands and photographers, or participate in pageants. There was a point where I considered modeling as a career, but my passion resides in business and or interior design,” she said.
Iakopo said she first began modeling and taking photos just for fun.
“I was always up for a photoshoot if a local brand wanted to feature me in their upcoming drop. The truth is, my favorite part of it all is meeting people and creating connections. The photos are just a cherry on top,” she said.
She shared that Renew had first reached out to her via Instagram after one of her photos ended up on their “Explore” page.
“After a couple of phone calls, we signed the contract and it has been a dream since,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey since then, Iakopo said that two words come to mind: humbling and surreal.
“Although this is a flashy achievement, it has truly reminded me to remain in humility. Certain experiences with those I have crossed paths with in my life are my reminders to appreciate every ounce of this. This isn’t something that comes by on a daily basis or coincidentally, especially being so far out from these kinds of opportunities. That’s how I know that this was a blessing graced from God. It is now my job to make sure I share it with the world, especially my community,” she said.
Iakopo attributes her success to her mother, Elle Sablan, and her close family members.
“Their endless support and persistent encouragement have fueled my fire. My godmother as well who isn’t physically present to witness it all. From my first few months on Earth, I was always her baby. Last but never least, our people. These past few days, I’ve been greeted with praise by strangers. All expressing how proud they are of me even if we aren’t connected on a personal level. It warms my heart and encourages me to do even better. From the bottom of my heart, I am so grateful,” she said.
The young model shared that she wholeheartedly believes that nothing is out of reach if it is truly meant to be for an individual.
“Pursue your passions and work towards the greater good, but be prepared when life takes its turn and gives you another path to go down. Modeling wasn’t my first choice, but it has created possibilities for me to live a life I always envisioned myself living. And that was the one thing I was always sure of, the kind of life I wanted to live. Believe in who you are and what you stand for. Connect with people and give them your best shot regardless of their perception of you. Surround yourself with entities that will take you to where you want to be in this life. Remind yourself that you are on your own walk of life so you are never too far behind someone else. They received their blessings and soon you will receive yours. Naturally, things will align and next thing you know you’re living your dream,” she said.
“To share my simple life and create a footprint in this industry is a privilege on its own that I am thankful to have. To tell people where our islands are and share its beauty is something I will never stop doing. I feel that this is an accomplishment for us all in so many ways. I am so proud to be a daughter of the Marianas. I hold so much pride in my Samoan-Mortlockese heritage. Tatao Marianas, Jon Chuuk, and my amazing family who have always believed in me, a million times thank you.”
Iakopo attends Kagman High School and also serves as vice speaker of the 18th CNMI Youth Congress.
