Lee has been under the curated development of our Future Faces board whilst completing his schooling, so we have watched him grow up in front of our eyes. It has been incredible to see him grow from boyhood to a young man with the world at his feet, etching out his journey.

With parents who both hail from industry and own established businesses (Flash Photo and Location Gallery), Lee has ingrained in him an impressive business ethic and deep love for the fashion and commercial industries. Lee knows that nothing worth having doesn't come without hard work, sacrifices and dedication.

As very proud agents, it has been exhilarating to facilitate Lee's coming-of-age first trip to Milan as a travelling, full-time model.

Travelling to one of the world's fashion capitals may sound glamorous, but there are always highs and lows that come with the adventure; so we asked Lee to share his experience with young and aspiring models by imparting 6 of his best tips for finding ones feet in Milan and travelling abroad in general.

1. Find a group of close friends asap!

They'll motivate you to explore different parts of the city, you'll find places you've never seen before through them and they know the best, most affordable spots regarding going out or eating out.

2. Be careful about what you spend your money on.

Yes, do your shopping. But, once that's out of the way make sure you budget and don't spend all your money on unnecessary things like fancy dinners, expensive and exclusive events, etc. Our South African Rands disappear quicker than you may think. Looking at your bank account weekly will certainly frighten you!

3. Have a routine.

Have a purpose to get up on the quieter days and make sure you are productive and active every day.

4. Don't wait for shoots to come.

Find photographers or friends who know about certain castings or shoots that you can also join in on. Don't be scared to reach out to local or international photographers by starting with good conversation and ending it with a test shoot. If you are truly passionate about your work, then you will find good photographers who will love your test shoot ideas and will want to shoot them with you too.

5. Do all the touristy things!

The city's have so much to offer and some of the scenery, locations and events are just spectacular. You never know when you'll be back in the same city so make sure you get to see al the beauty of it before you leave.

6. Lastly, make sure you know how to do all the necessary house work and chores.

Familiarise yourself with cleaning, doing the dishes, ironing, vacuuming, etc. It's so easy to let go of yourself and turn your apartment in to a mess if you don't actively put in the work and clean daily.

Keep shining Lee, the world is your oyster!

Model - Lee Anderson (@ lee.anderrson)

Photographer - Federico Laudicina (@laudicinaphoto)

#Fashion #Milan #Europe

Vivianne de Koning

Vivianne
de Koning