At just 7 years old, Linani Potwana is captivating the international fashion scene, from walking for Dior at Paris Fashion Week Kids Unit to gracing the runways of China Fashion Week and Shanghai Children’s Fashion Week. Based in China with her proud mom by her side, this young South African model is proving that confidence, grace, and talent have no age limit.
At an age when most children are still learning to tie their shoelaces, Linani Potwana is tying together a growing list of international fashion accolades. The seven-year-old South African, now based in China, has already walked some of the world’s most prestigious runways, including Paris Fashion Week Kids Unit for Dior, Silk Road International Fashion Week 2023, China Fashion Week AW2025, and Shanghai Children’s Fashion Week 2025, representing global brands like Lucky Seven and MS Fashion Concept.
Guided lovingly by her mother, Sandra Potwana, Linani’s journey into modelling began with play; dressing up, striking poses, and imitating her grandmother’s confident walk. What started as innocent imitation quickly evolved into undeniable talent, leading to professional coaching, global stages, and growing recognition. Yet, at the heart of it all is a grounded little girl who still loves to dance, pray before shows, and remind herself that her name, Linani, meaning “With You” , is a constant reminder that she never walks alone.
In this heartwarming conversation, Linani’s mom opens up about nurturing a young star’s dreams, balancing childhood with career, and what it means to see her daughter shine on some of fashion’s biggest stages.
Glamour: When did you first realise that Linani had a special spark in modelling or dance? Sandra Potwana: From a very young age, Linani would imitate my mom’s walk — she has this unique, confident stride. We started noticing Linani standing in front of the mirror, dressing up and posing like a model. When she joined me in China in 2023, I took her to a trial modelling class just to see what she might enjoy. After that first lesson, the coach invited her to a show happening the next weekend. I was shocked! She said Linani had incredible potential — and that’s how she was scouted to walk for Dior at the Paris Fashion Week Kids Unit in Beijing.
Glamour: Was there a moment that made you think, “She’s really got something unique”? Sandra: Absolutely. I’ll never forget one of her castings in Beijing; it was her first, since she’s usually invited to shows. She walked with such confidence and presence that everyone’s attention was on her. We hadn’t even practised those poses! That’s when I knew she wasn’t just participating, she was meant to be there.
Glamour: How do you balance her modelling commitments with school and still let her be a child?
Sandra: Linani is a very busy seven-year-old! Her school runs from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and she’s involved in everything. We make sure to never take away her childhood; she’s never forced, only supported. If her schedule gets too full, we turn down gigs. Her schoolwork and emotional well-being always come first. She’s still a child who needs time to play, explore, and just be herself.
Glamour: What was it like watching her walk the runway at Shanghai Children’s Fashion Week?
Sandra: It was surreal! Usually, she’s the only foreign child in these shows, but in Shanghai, she met other international kids and was so happy. That joy showed on stage, she shined. Seeing her so poised and confident, dressed by major brands, made me emotional. It’s a proud feeling to watch her hard work and joy come together like that.
Glamour: How did the opportunity to perform at the IPA All-Star Awards come about?
Sandra: Linani had seen the IPA contest on a Chinese app and kept asking to join, but I felt she was still too young. I told her she could try something similar when we visited South Africa. After a pageant there with our family’s support, she loved it! When we returned to China, she insisted she was ready, so I signed her up for the IPA All-Star Contest, and she absolutely owned it.
Glamour: What’s a typical day like for Linani when she’s preparing for a big event?
Sandra: It’s a mix of fun and focus. She wakes up early, gets ready, and in between, she’ll practise her walk, though she’ll cheekily tell me, “I got it, Mom, I already know what to do. I’m the star of the show, remember?” Before the show, she listens to music, dances, and always prays. Her name means “With You” — she reminds herself that God is with her on stage. That faith keeps her confident and calm.
Glamour: How do you keep her grounded as she gains international recognition?
Sandra: We remind her that kindness and humility matter most. We celebrate her achievements but always talk about gratitude, thanking God, her teachers, and the people she works with. At home, she still has chores and homework. She’s a model, but she’s also just a little girl who loves to play and dance.
Glamour: What role does her cultural identity play in this journey?
Sandra: A big one. We make sure Linani stays connected to her Xhosa and South African roots, and that’s part of her strength. Being an African child shining internationally gives her pride, and we remind her she’s carrying her heritage with her wherever she goes.
Glamour: How do you think her success is shaping perceptions of young African talent globally? Sandra: I think it’s showing that African children are powerful, creative, and capable of excelling anywhere. Linani’s journey proves that talent has no borders, with the right support, African kids can stand confidently on global stages.
Glamour: What kind of support have you received from family and community? Have there been sacrifices along the way?
Sandra: Our family and friends have been amazing, cheering her on from afar. Even though we live in Beijing, the love from home keeps us grounded. Her teachers have also been so supportive, especially during public voting for the IPA contest. Of course, there have been sacrifices; relocating, time, and finances, but every bit of it feels worth it when we see her confidence and joy.
Glamour: What brings Linani the most joy? Is it modelling, dancing, or something else entirely?
Sandra: She loves them all, but dancing is her pure joy. It’s where she feels free, and that energy flows into everything else she does.
Glamour: What dreams does she have for herself right now?
Sandra: (Laughs) She says she wants to be “the queen of the world.” She’s curious and creative; she wants to be a mom, teacher, businesswoman, dancer, actor, and singer. We let her dream as big as she wants and support every part of it.
Glamour: What advice would you give to other parents who see potential in their children but don’t know where to start?
Sandra: Start small and start with belief. Encourage your child’s passion but never force it. Look for local opportunities, help them build confidence, and make sure they’re enjoying it. When a child feels supported and happy, their light shines naturally.
Glamour: In one word, how would you describe this experience so far?
Sandra: Transformative. It’s changed how I see parenting, creativity, and resilience. Watching Linani grow has been such a blessing. She teaches us every day about courage, joy, and faith.
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