PRINCIPLE THING
ROOTED IN CULTURE, RISING IN POTENTIAL.
Principle Thing is more than a mentorship platform—it’s a mother agency and creative ecosystem rooted in community, integrity, and access. We represent, develop, and advocate for emerging models across Africa, America, and the global diaspora, bridging local talent with international opportunity.
Through intentional scouting, holistic mentorship, and hands-on development, we equip models to build sustainable, purpose-driven careers. Our approach honors both the artistry and the business of modeling—empowering talent to move with clarity, confidence, and principle.
From community events and workshops to global partnerships and residencies, Principle Thing serves as a home—both virtual and physical—for those reshaping what representation looks like in fashion. We believe that when we lead with principle, we create impact that transcends borders.
OUR TEAM
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Founder & Director, Principle Thing
Born in Ethiopia and raised the United States, Nyamuoch Girwath is a South Sudanese American model, mentor, and creative director dedicated to redefining representation in fashion. With over 14 years of experience in the industry, she has used her platform to challenge inequities and expand visibility for Black and diaspora talent across global markets.
As the Founder and Director of Principle Thing, Nyamuoch leads with a vision rooted in advocacy, access, and authenticity. Her work builds pathways for emerging models to grow with integrity and longevity—bridging the creative and cultural gap between Africa, America, and the broader diaspora.
Beyond fashion, her background in nonprofit and social justice work—supporting migrant, refugee, and unhoused communities—continues to inform her approach to leadership and mentorship. Through Principle Thing, she carries forward that same spirit of service, creating spaces for education, community, and storytelling that center truth, beauty, and principle.
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Director of Community & Advocacy, Principle Thing
Originally from Compton, California, Jazzmine Carthon is a model, community organizer, and advocate dedicated to reshaping the fashion industry from the inside out. As one of the first plus-size models to win Project Runway and a finalist in Sports Illustrated Swim Search, she has become a powerful voice for inclusivity and representation in fashion.
With years of experience navigating an industry that often sidelines diverse talent, Jazzmine has used her platform to challenge outdated beauty standards and advocate for a more equitable, sustainable creative landscape. As co-founder of Models For Change Now, she helped build a community-driven movement that promotes fair treatment, transparency, and opportunity for underrepresented creatives—both in front of and behind the camera.
At Principle Thing, Jazzmine continues that mission as Director of Community & Advocacy, guiding and supporting aspiring models through mentorship, education, and empowerment. Her work centers on building a fashion industry where every story has space, and every creative can thrive.
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Director of Development & Image, Principle Thing
Born in Bermuda, Lily Lightbourn is a model, photographer, and creative visionary shaping the future of representation in fashion. After being crowned Miss Bermuda and representing her country at the Miss World Pageant in 2014, she was scouted in New York City and signed with Marilyn Agency, going on to appear in Vogue, L’Officiel, Dazed, Paper, and Numéro.
As Director of Development and Image at Principle Thing, Lily brings her multifaceted experience to guide models in refining their craft, cultivating confidence, and building strong creative identities. Her background behind and in front of the camera allows her to nurture authentic imagery and storytelling that highlight individuality and depth.
Beyond her modeling and photography work, Lily is the founder of Model Grocery, a support network connecting models across agencies through mentorship, resources, and community care. Her work reflects a deep commitment to artistry, empowerment, and collective growth within the global modeling landscape.
