Staniel Ferreira is a model with UModelsNYC and is our pick for male model for the month of March.

Ferreira has always been a natural performer. One of 10 kids, he always felt encouraged to be unique and perform and always knew he wanted to do something artistic. His start was slow , he said it took him almost five years to sign with an agency, but he stayed in New York, refusing to give up. His big break was a casting call for a Lady Gaga campaign which led him to be signed.

He says he wants to inspire children to believe in something. “It’s a waste of life if you don’t have anything to believe in.” He said that he has a unique perspective as a black man in the American modeling industry and believes “our industry is still working toward accepting cultural differences. In fashion they’re starting to realize that money doesn’t have a color. Everyone from all cultures will purchase things.”