From Behind the Lens to Center Stage: How Three Bowie State Students Found Their Voice Through Models Inc.

How Three Bowie State Students Found Their Voice Through Models Inc.

 

MEDIA CONTACT: media@bowiestate.edu

(BOWIE, Md.)—At Bowie State University, Models Inc. is more than a modeling troupe—it’s a movement. A creative launchpad. A family. For students like Rebel, Star, and Mohamed, it has been a transformative force, guiding them from uncertainty to unshakable confidence, from curiosity to career-defining opportunities. Here’s how three unique journeys found their stride through the power of community, self-expression, and the legacy of Models Inc.  

From the Shadows to the Spotlight: Rebel’s Rise 

When Shaunira “Rebel” Williams first arrived at Bowie State as a business major, she planned to stay behind the scenes, contributing her skills as a photographer to Models Inc. But one spontaneous decision at tryouts changed everything. 

“I watched the tryouts and thought, ‘I think I can do that,’” Rebel recalled. “The board encouraged me to go for it—and from there, it just skyrocketed.” 

After joining during her freshman year, she quickly advanced—earning her model name, Rebel, in Spring 2023, and becoming assistant content creator for the 2023–2024 academic year. Now serving as the male model coordinator, she leads with confidence and mentors her peers. 

Her model name speaks volumes. “I don’t really follow the norms,” she explained. “I’m a woman, I walk with a masculine style, and now I lead a group of men. It’s about breaking molds and leading in unexpected ways.” 

Born and raised in Baltimore, Rebel has built a résumé of powerful moments: walking in Baltimore Fashion Week in front of her family, helping Bowie State win the HBCU Fashion Battle, and interning at New York Fashion Week with designer Romeo Hunte. “It felt unreal,” she said. “I was capturing content behind the scenes, surrounded by celebrities.” 

Rebel’s dream? To open a photography studio in her hometown and create a space where young creatives can thrive. And central to her journey is the mentorship of Models Inc. founder, Bang. “He’s filled that parental role in so many ways,” she said. “He’s not just about modeling advice—it’s life advice.” 

Her advice to newcomers: “Just show up. You could be a regular student one day, and the next, you’re in Vogue. This program truly changes lives.” 

Finding Her Light: Star’s Journey to Confidence and Belonging 

For junior Deinbia “Star” Johnson, Models Inc. was more than an extracurricular—it was a life-changer. A seasoned model since age 12, Star arrived at Bowie State with runway experience but found her voice and true family within the program. 

“I was a whole different person before I came,” she shared. “When I joined Models Inc., it was the first time I felt genuine support and love from a group of people who actually want to see you win.” 

Originally majoring in Fine and Performing Arts, Star later switched to sociology—drawn by her personal experiences as an adoptee surrounded by social workers. “It’s something I can genuinely learn from and use to help others,” she said. 

Her journey with Models Inc. started before she even enrolled. “I saw the Models Inc Instagram in 12th grade and started following their page. I didn’t even go to Bowie yet, but I was commenting, asking, ‘When are tryouts?’” 

Now in her third year with the program, she’s traveled to New York and Delaware, built a powerful portfolio, and found a family she never had. And like Rebel, she credits much of her growth to Bang. “He’s like a father figure. He helped me channel my energy—not toward negativity, but toward moving forward.” 

Star plans to continue modeling post-graduation and hopes to explore music and performance. But one thing is certain: she’ll always stay connected to Models Inc. 

Her message to others: “Just come as you are. You don’t need anything to start. We will mold you into the person you desire to be.” 

From Fashion Dreamer to Vogue: Mohamed’s Story of Growth 

When Mohamed Kaloga transferred to Bowie State, he brought two passions with him: technology and fashion. Now a junior majoring in computer technology with a cybersecurity focus and minoring in fashion design, Mohamed originally joined Models Inc. to promote his clothing brand, Opia. 

“I wasn’t even thinking about walking the runway—I just wanted to find models and get content,” he said. But the energy in the room pulled him in. “Once I saw people walking, I got curious. I wanted to learn.” 

And learn he did. In addition to mastering the runway, Mohamed embraced content creation, graphic design, and creative production. Models Inc. became the perfect platform for his multidimensional creativity. 

His most surreal moment? Walking in New York Fashion Week and being featured in Vogue. “I originally went to intern with Romeo Hunte, and the next thing I know—I’m on the runway.” 

Grateful for the support, he credits Bang and Movah for believing in him. “They saw I had the hunger. They opened doors I never thought I’d walk through. At this point, I look at them like family. Love y’all, Bang and Movah.” 

His brand, Opia, is at the heart of his vision—original, artistic streetwear built on emotion and intention. “Each piece is art. It’s about expressing who I am. I’m not into fast fashion—I take time, and every design has meaning.” 

And as for the future? Mohamed wants to help Models Inc. continue to rise. “We’re not just models. We’re creators, visionaries, and a family. The goal is to get our name in rooms that have never seen anything like us. And we’re doing it—together.” 

His advice to newcomers: “Just show up. You don’t even have to model—there’s room for everyone. They’ll help you find your place.” 

Join the Movement 

Inspired to be part of the movement? Whether you're exploring sponsorship, partnership, or joining the team, there's a place for you in the Models Inc. journey. Help us continue transforming lives and empowering young creatives. 
Contact us at Incmodel@yahoo.com or visit www.modelsincdc.org to learn more. 

This feature is Part 2 in a three-part series celebrating Models Inc. at Bowie State University. In our final installment, we’ll look toward the future—how the movement continues to evolve and inspire. Stay tuned for Part 3 in our next BSYou newsletter. 

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.