MY STORY

For Sené Maluwapi, the runway is a platform and the lens is a witness. A proud Malu Kiwai woman of the Samu and Gaidai Clans from the Torres Strait Islands and Western Province of Papua New Guinea, Sené has redefined the role of the modern international model. Her career began with a landmark booking for MECCA at just 14. The next year she made the life-changing decision to leave home at 15 and move independently from Adelaide to Brisbane. This early leap forged the self-reliance and grit that took her to Sydney at 18 and Melbourne at 20, fueled by a relentless pursuit of the global stage.

At 18, Sené achieved a historic milestone as the first Torres Strait Islander and Papua New Guinean model featured in Harper’s Bazaar. This groundbreaking editorial proved that her presence transcends fashion, it is a vital act of visibility for her community. Building on this momentum, she was named a Top 10 National Finalist for Miss Universe Australia 2023 and served as the ToyBox Australia NSW Ambassador, raising over $16,700 for disadvantaged children. Her portfolio features leading global titles and brands, including The Iconic, SHEIKE, Meshki, and JW Marriot Bonvoy.

Now splitting her time between Australia and Philippines, Sené’s international trajectory continues to accelerate following a highly successful chapter based in London. During her time in the UK, she starred as one of the faces of the Timberland UK x Uniform Display campaign and Manière De Voir, and made her international runway debut for Annie’s Ibiza A/W 25 at London Fashion Week. A powerhouse on the runway, she has been a fixture at Australia’s most prestigious festivals, notably opening the Melbourne Fashion Week Opening Show, closing for Youkhana’s debut at Australian Fashion Week, and serving as an official face of Melbourne Fashion Week in 2024 with credits including David Jones, Scanlan Theodore, Aje, Mariam Seddiq, Beare Park and madre natura.

Sené’s influence extends far beyond the camera as a sought-after voice in the industry's most critical conversations. A featured panelist at 18 for Australian Fashion Week "The Talks" and the Australian Museum’s Future Leaders Panel, she explores self-determination and genuine change for her community.

Today, Sené continues to fuse international excellence with deep cultural roots, available for worldwide bookings and creative collaborations.

A nostalgic black and white childhood photograph of Sené Maluwapi running, capturing the 'old soul' energy and early movement that defines her journey as an international model.