Zarif Shabab, a rising figure in the Bangladeshi modeling scene, has been selected to represent Bangladesh on the international stage at the Face of Asia 2024 competition, held in Kangwon Land High1 Resort Convention Center, South Korea. As a finalist, Zarif joins a distinguished group of elite male and female models from across Asia, showcasing the diversity and talent within the region’s modeling industry.
Zarif’s journey to Face of Asia has been nothing short of inspiring. Crowned as the “Face of Bangladesh” during a prestigious event on June 23rd at the Alokhi Convention Centre in Dhaka, Zarif has quickly emerged as one of Bangladesh’s promising talents in fashion. His early exposure to the world of fashion, inspired by his mother, a certified fashion designer, ignited his passion and creative approach to modeling. What started as a personal interest evolved into a professional pursuit, marked by Zarif’s commitment to sharing Bangladesh’s unique aesthetic in global fashion.
Early Beginnings and Breakthrough Moments
Though Zarif’s career in modeling began with hurdles, his resilience and dedication set him apart. His initial photoshoot for Vibe Studios didn’t go as planned, causing him to briefly question his place in the industry. However, his resolve was reignited during a later shoot with the brand Yaad, which proved to be a transformative moment, solidifying his passion for modeling and strengthening his commitment to the industry.
Zarif’s drive for continuous improvement and exposure led him to standout performances, including his role as a showstopper during Arca Fashion Week. These experiences soon paved the way for him to make a significant impact at Bangladesh Wedding Couture Week, where he walked for the high-end fashion brand Zurhem, garnering widespread attention.
Training and Dedication
To refine his craft, Zarif enrolled full-time in the Azra Mahamud Talent Camp (AMTC), where he learned from industry experts, including mentor Azra Mahamud. His athletic background and competitive spirit propelled him to consider new challenges, even eyeing major international pageants and adventurous platforms like “Roadies,” where he could showcase his physical prowess alongside his modeling abilities. Zarif’s dedication to both physical and artistic growth has positioned him as a versatile talent, ready to take on the global modeling scene.
Face of Asia 2024: A Platform for Cultural Exchange
As Face of Asia celebrates its 15th anniversary, this year’s event promises to be a highlight in the Asian modeling and fashion calendar. The competition, organized by the Asia Model Festival Organizing Committee (AMFOC) and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of the Republic of Korea, gathers top models from 25 countries including South Korea, Japan, China, the Philippines, India, and Bangladesh. The event serves as a powerful platform, fostering cultural exchange and providing visibility to Asian models in the global fashion arena.
Sponsors such as High1 Resort X.I.E.L, Oracle Dermatology, RAYDEL, LINE COLLECTION, Daegyeong University, and SuGain Beauty are supporting this grand event, showcasing their dedication to Asia’s fashion and beauty industry. The face of Asia offers a unique blend of modeling competition and cultural celebration, underscoring the rising influence of Asian fashion and beauty on the world stage.
Bringing Bangladesh to the World
For Zarif, representing Bangladesh at Face of Asia is a proud achievement. His story is one of resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to his craft, making him an inspiring ambassador for Bangladeshi talent. With this incredible opportunity, Zarif looks forward to sharing his country’s vibrant fashion perspectives, making a mark on both a personal and national level.
The Face of Asia 2024 Finals will take place on November 1st at the Kangwon Land High1 Resort Convention Center Main Hall in South Korea. This prestigious competition marks an exciting chapter for Zarif Shabab and for Bangladesh as he steps onto the international stage, carrying the hopes and pride of his country.
