Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhuale Ruben.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, I struggled with insecurities that shaped how I saw myself—too quiet, too skinny, not “pretty enough.” I spent years comparing myself to others, picking myself apart in silence. Those feelings didn’t just disappear with age-they followed me into adulthood. Modeling was never apart of my initial career path. The idea of putting myself out there, being judged on my appearance, felt overwhelming. But over time, I started to shift how I saw myself. What once felt like flaws started to feel like uniqueness.
In 2016, I started my first job. I was just trying to get on my feet, but I ended up getting more than a paycheck. My assistant manager at the time, Clarence, saw something in me I didn’t. He encouraged me to try modeling. I thought he was joking—until he mentioned that his niece was Joan Smalls. That caught my attention. If someone that close to the industry thought I had potential, maybe there was something there. That stuck with me.
I started small in 2018—working out, taking better care of myself. I was starting to feel stronger, more in control of my body and my mindset It wasn’t about chasing some ideal look. It was about showing up for myself every day, and over time, that built real confidence. I began snapping selfies on Snapchat, then gradually posted more on Instagram. I wasn’t trying to be a model at that point, just trying to feel more confident.
In 2020, I started posting hair reels, and that opened a new lane. I saw people responding to me—my style, my vibe, my presence. I realized I had something to offer, not just in front of the camera, but through it. That same year, I decided to take modeling seriously. I bought a tripod and started creating my own content-styling outfits, doing mini photo shoots in my room, learning how to move in front of a camera. At first, it was awkward. But the more I did it, the more natural it felt. Fast forward to 2021, I book my first photoshoot. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start. By 2022, I booked my second one—and the momentum started to build.
Soon, I was working with UNice and that was a turning point. Seeing my face on a website, knowing it was going to be seen by thousands of people—it made everything feel real. Later that year, I ended up walking in my first runway show with The Model Experience. That led to more runway opportunities, more shoots, and more visibility. One of the most surreal moments was being acknowledged by Guetcha Tondreau. That kind of recognition hits different when you know how much doubt you had to overcome just to get started. Brand collaborations and creative projects followed. Nothing was handed to me, I pitched, I reached out, I showed up. Every project taught me something, reminded me that I deserved to be here. And recently this year, I was given the opportunity through Model Mafia to help open for the Von Dutch Paris, Spring 2025 Fashion Show whilst simultaneously working with one of my favorite designers, Cierra Boyd.
This journey didn’t happen overnight. It came from taking small steps, staying consistent, and believing in myself a little more every day even when it felt uncomfortable.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. The biggest obstacle I had to face was fear. Honestly, that fear never disappears completely. When I first started, the idea of putting myself out there—my face, my body, my personality, it was terrifying. I wasn’t used to that kind of attention, and part of me always assumed people would judge or pick me apart. For a long time, I tried to stay lowkey. Modeling, for me, became less about being watched and more about being felt. If someone connects with my energy or my story through a photo or a video, that’s what matters.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a creative, a model, and a visionary. I use photoshoots and reels as a way to express who I am and how I see the world. I specialize in creating visually striking content that blends fashion, beauty, and personal expression. I’m known for my presence—both in front of the camera and in the way I tell a story through visuals.
I’m most proud of how far I’ve come from where I started—mentally, emotionally, and creatively. I had to work through a lot of self-doubt just to see myself in this space. So the fact that I’ve built something from scratch—on my own terms—is what means the most. I’m proud of every risk I took, every time I showed up scared but did it anyway. From my first photoshoot to opening a fashion show, I didn’t wait for permission. I created my own lane, and I kept going when it wasn’t easy. That’s what I carry with me the most.
What sets me apart is my vision and my intention behind everything I do. I’m not just modeling to be seen—I’m modeling to say something. I bring emotion, energy, and story into my work. I’m hands-on with the creative process, from the concept to the execution. I know how to shift looks and moods, but still keep it me.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is how to be my own support system. In this journey, not everyone is going to understand your vision or believe in it—and that’s okay. What matters is that you do. I had to learn how to encourage myself, hype myself up, and keep going even when there was no applause. Of course, support from others is great, but I realized I couldn’t depend on it. I had to show up for myself first.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rrhuale/
Image Credits
1. Henry Mirafuente
2. Damari
3. UNice Hair
4. The Model Experience
5. Ronald Charles
6. Jocelyn Campbell
7. Ronald Charles
8. Jocelyn Campbell
