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 based in London, Sené’s international trajectory has only accelerated. She recently starred as one of the faces of the Timberland UK x Uniform Display campaign and Manière De Voir. A powerhouse on the runway, she has been a fixture at Australia’s most prestigious festivals, notably opening the Melbourne Fashion Week Opening Show and closing for Youkhana’s debut at Australian Fashion Week. In 2024, she was named an official face of Melbourne Fashion Week, with runway credits including David Jones, Scanlan Theodore, Aje, Mariam Seddiq, and Beare Park, followed by her international debut for Annie’s Ibiza A/W 25 in London Fashion Week.

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.