Shaira Ventura

Ventura made waves by gracing the cover of Vogue Philippines in April 2024, captivating audiences with her natural elegance and modest charm. She represents a powerful shift away from conventional standards, highlighting the rich diversity and cultural heritage that indigenous models bring to the global fashion scene.

The Tausug Heritage

The Tausug, known as the “People of the Current,” possess a rich history and vibrant fashion culture that reflects their identity and traditions. For Tausug women, traditional attire includes the Batawi for formal occasions, often made of silk or velvet with intricate designs and gold button adornments. For daily wear, they wear the Sambra or Supa Supa, paired with Sawwal pants and an embroidered wrap called Kindang. Men wear the Badjuh Lapih as an upper garment and Kuput as pants.

This sartorial legacy is woven into their cultural identity, influenced by Islam since the 13th century. The Tausug’s cultural roots run deep, with a history shaped by the establishment of the Sultanate of Sulu in 1475. While Islam is central to Tausug identity, they also retain elements of pre-Islamic practices that enrich their unique cultural heritage

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A Journey of Balance and Faith

Ventura, a newly registered nurse, grew up as the eldest child in her family, with three younger brothers. She describes her role as a caregiver and mentor to her siblings. “Being the eldest, I have to be the role model for my brothers,” Ventura explains. “When my parents are not around, I step in as a secondary parent, cooking for them, ironing their clothes, and attending school events,” she adds.

Her journey into modeling began at age 12 through pageants, which led to opportunities with local designers. With her family’s support, especially her mother’s encouragement, Ventura balanced her cultural values with her aspirations, determined to pursue modeling while keeping nursing as a potential career path.

Her modeling career is guided by her faith and cultural practices around modesty. In her hometown, she wears a hijab and adheres to traditional norms that emphasize covering her face and body except among close family members. “There are criticisms, but I keep in mind that my personal beliefs are more important than any criticism over appearances,” Ventura states. When Vogue Philippines approached her, Ventura expressed her requirements for modest attire, declining any styling that felt uncomfortable. “If it doesn’t feel right, then I don’t pursue it,” Ventura says. Her selection for the Vogue cover honors her authenticity and commitment to her values.

Challenging Stereotypes and Celebrating Culture

Ventura’s rise has also given her a platform to challenge stereotypes about her Tausug community, often misunderstood as combative due to media portrayals of Mindanao. “Someone once identified me as Tausug, saying they could tell by my expression, insinuating that I looked like I was ready for conflict,” Ventura recalls. She emphasizes that negative perceptions are overblown and do not represent the reality of her homeland. “It’s true that we can be fierce when defending our rights, but I grew up there and never encountered trouble.”

“Tausug women can be fighters. We protect our rights and adapt while staying true to our values. Modesty and respect are the foundations of how we conduct ourselves,” Ventura asserts.

Ventura also shares insights into Tausug customs around marriage and the evolving role of women. Traditionally, courtship led to prompt marriage, but today, women are empowered to choose their own spouses, aligning with Islamic requirements for mutual consent.

Her parents serve as her role models, embodying both tradition and progressiveness. Ventura’s father, a mechanical engineer, and her mother, a school nurse and former aspiring model, support her unconditionally. She admires models like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid, appreciating their confidence, even though she does not emulate their style directly.

Inspiring a New Generation

As Ventura continues to pursue modeling, she recognizes her role as a representative of her Tausug community. She aims to inspire women by showing that a conservative background is not a limitation but a testament to respect for tradition. To young models with cultural concerns, Ventura offers encouragement to remain true to their practices and values.

Shaira Ventura has become more than just a model—she’s an icon of honor, resilience, and cultural celebration. By bridging the worlds of tradition and contemporary style, she inspires her community to honor their roots unapologetically and reminds us all of the strength found in embracing who we are. Shaira Ventura isn’t just walking the runway; she’s leading a new generation to wear their heritage with pride.