Major Man : Shaun Ross

As liberal and limitless as the American fashion industry claims to be, it often publicly struggles with living up to its reputation in matters of diversity. While in recent years we've started to see that tide slowly turn towards being more inclusive, it still takes a Major Man to be audacious enough to push the limits of beauty even further than anyone could have ever anticipated.

Major Man of the week Shaun Ross is no stranger when it comes to standing out. And instead of letting his uniqueness keep him from pursuing his love of fashion and modeling, he's using it to push him to the forefront of the industry; both on and off the runway. So before he's swept off into the fashion week frenzy, get to know him up close and personal right here on Essentially Major.

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Name: Shaun Ross

Age: 17

Occupation: Model

How would you describe your personal style? My style is original but what makes it my style is that I’m really an old soul at heart. I love to do everything. My personality is very chill and laid back. I love lounge music; anything that can set the mood. At the same time I am also very modern and afrocentric.

Do you have a favorite Designer? Has to be either Raf Simons or Givenchy.

What is your "go-to" item the one thing you cannot live without? A bag to carry all my things in and sunglasses.

Who/What is your biggest influence in life? My mom, because she teaches me to go for your dreams and stick with it no matter what people tell you.

What has been your biggest obstacle in life that you overcame? Accepting the fact that I am an Albino man.

What is your biggest flaw? Eating too much food and not gaining enough weight

What will you be doing in 2009 i.e., projects, goals, etc.? I am working on a couple of magazine covers and runway shows, also heading overseas.

What do you hate? Violence, ignorance, and racism

What do you love? I love the world and all it has to offer

What's your favorite curse word? Shade

What's your favorite food? Everything!

What makes you a Major Man? I am a Major Man because I go through lots of different obstacles everyday that the average person does not have to face. If I wasn’t major, I wouldn’t be able to take ownership of the title "First Albino Male Model".