From Bowie State to the Runway

The Rise of Iran "Bang" Paylor and Models Inc.

 

MEDIA CONTACT: media@bowiestate.edu

(BOWIE, Md.)—Iran "Bang" Paylor is a name synonymous with creativity, resilience and a relentless drive to uplift others. An alumnus of Bowie State University, Bang’s journey from a freshman in 2006 to the visionary founder of Models Inc. is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. What began as a quest to create a quality platform for models in Washington, D.C., has blossomed into a transformative force at his alma mater, empowering students to shine on stages from local showcases to the international pages of Vogue. 

Bang’s story starts in the bustling D.C. fashion scene, where he modeled in shows like DC Fashion Week. Disillusioned by empty promises from scouts and lackluster productions, he took matters into his own hands. "I wanted to create a platform where models could experience a real, high-quality fashion show," he recalls. In 2006, as a Bowie State freshman, he brought Models Inc. to campus, turning it into a haven for students in the arts—dancers, actors and dreamers—who didn’t it the traditional mold. "It became a space for belonging," Bang says, "a place to express yourself and grow." 

After graduating and landing a job with the D.C. government, Bang took Models Inc. off campus, but its roots at Bowie State never faded. Recently, a determined student approached him with a bold idea: officially charter Models Inc. back at the university. Skeptical at first, Bang challenged the student to prove the need. "He did it so fast, I was blown away," Bang admits. That spark reignited Models Inc. at Bowie State, now a vibrant hub mentoring students and fostering engagement, led by Aaron Handy, the president of Models Inc. D.C. and a Delaware State University graduate, who serves as the “magician” orchestrating this work. Alongside Bang, who created the partnership with designer Romeo Hunt, Handy is the lead liaison ensuring students thrive. 

Today, Bang’s vision is fueled by his own journey as an HBCU graduate and professional in the fashion world. Models Inc. isn’t just about runway struts—it’s about building kings and queens who walk through life with confidence and purpose. From mentoring Mr. Bowie State, Kyle Jones, to training the university’s royal court, Bang pours his expertise into students, showing them the value of their heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Yet, this work isn’t without challenges. Bang and his team fund much of it themselves, relying on sheer grit and the support of advocates like Dr. Shirelle Briscoe, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bowie State, who motivates the group. "We’re making it happen on our own," he says, "but imagine what we could do with more." A bus to New York Fashion Week, scholarships for students, or even a donation from alumni could amplify opportunities tenfold. Faculty, students and alumni hold the key to sustaining this legacy—because when HBCU talent rises, the world notices.

Ready to fuel this movement? Interested in Sponsorship, Partnership and Support – contact us via email at Incmodel@yahoo.com or www.modelsincdc.org.

Bang’s story is just the beginning. In the next installment, meet the students stepping into the spotlight, proving that Models Inc. is more than a program—it’s a launchpad. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series in our upcoming 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.