FOUNDER @ ISIS MODELS & ANSM

JOAN OKORODUDU

A visionary force in fashion, Joan Okorodudu has spent over two decades identifying, nurturing, and launching premier African modeling talent onto the world’s most prestigious runways. Under her leadership, ANSM bridges raw talent—including models from refugee communities—with international fashion capitals in Paris, Milan, London, and New York.

In 2024, she received a Lifetime Presidential Award associated with then United States President Joe Biden, recognizing her work in empowering young people, particularly young African women and talents from refugee communities. In 2017, she received the New African Woman Award in Arts & Culture in Dakar, Senegal, recognizing her contribution to raising the international profile of African models and fashion.

EXECUTIVE HEAD @ AFRICA’S NEXT SUPER MODEL

BIDEMI OKORODUDU

Bidemi Okorodudu serves as the Executive Head of Africa’s Next Super Model right alongside his mother, leading the strategic vision, media production, and global narrative of the platform. An accomplished media professional, producer, and storyteller, he drives the brand's international visual footprint.

He is also the founder of Runways to Redemption, a social-impact creative initiative merging fashion, media, and purpose. Through his leadership, he champions intergenerational legacy, ensuring ANSM equips young models with storytelling tools, professional confidence, and long-term media empowerment beyond the runway.

Group CEO, Select Model Management

Matteo Puglisi

As the Group CEO of Select Model Management—one of the world's premier global modeling agency networks spanning Milan, Paris, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Atlanta—Matteo Puglisi brings unmatched international scouting authority to the ANSM judging panel. Partnering closely with ANSM on regional scouting initiatives across Africa, Puglisi personally reviews and signs top talent, connecting ANSM winners directly to elite global runway contracts and high-fashion luxury houses.

FOUNDER & CEO @ DESIGN ESSENTIALS

CORNELL MCBRIDE JR.

Cornell McBride Jr. is a leader in the global beauty industry, driving Design Essentials (McBride Research Laboratories) to deliver high-performance, professional-grade hair care tailored to textured hair.

As the official hair care partner of Africa’s Next Super Model, McBride and Design Essentials empower models on and off the runway. The partnership celebrates natural textures, cultural identity, and professional salon education across major international fashion showcases.

EDUCATOR @ ANSM BOOTCAMP INITIATIVES

DR. JOYCE LITTON

A respected advocate and education leader, Dr. Joyce Litton brings extensive expertise in youth development, leadership curriculum, and community empowerment to the platform.

Working alongside ANSM, Dr. Litton shapes the educational and mentorship framework for contestant bootcamps, equipping young models with essential personal development tools, professional resilience, and advocacy skills to navigate the global creative economy.

CEO @ STUDIO 24

 IFEANYI OPUTA

Ifeanyi Oputa is the CEO of Studio 24, Nigeria's premier multimedia and professional photography enterprise, known for advancing digital innovation and youth skill development.

Serving as a vital partner and major official sponsor for ANSM, Oputa and Studio 24 provide substantial cash prizes for winners and produce high-concept editorial imagery that equips ANSM models with world-class portfolios for the global stage.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING DIRECTOR @ DESIGN ESSENTIALS

DR. SHARON THOMPSON

Based in the UK, Dr. Sharon Thompson leads international marketing and strategic brand initiatives for Design Essentials (McBride Research Laboratories). Partnering with ANSM, she elevates natural hair care on global stages while empowering contestants through beauty education and confidence.