Natalia Bryant announced on her Instagram page that IMG Models would be representing her. In a short statement posted to the company's Instagram page, the 18-year-old daughter of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant said she was excited to start working.
"I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age. I have a love for the industry and ever since I can remember I wanted to model. There is a lot to learn but I feel this is a great opportunity for me to learn and express myself creatively," Natalia said.
Her mother, Vanessa Bryant, shared the same post on her page with the added message, "I’m so happy for you! I love you Nani."
Vanessa has previously lauded Natalia for helping the family through the incredibly tough times they're going through since the helicopter crash that took the lives of Kobe and Gianna Bryant last year.
"You have displayed so much strength and grace throughout the most difficult year of our lives. Thank you for stepping in to help me with your little sisters. You’re such an incredible big sister and a beautiful role model to so many people," Vanessa wrote on Instagram for Natalia's 18th birthday three weeks ago.
"Thank you for being kind, polite and gracious in everything that you do. You have no idea how happy and proud mommy and daddy are that you’re our daughter. We love you always and forever, forever and always," she added in the post.
Natalia already has 2.3 million followers and according to Vanessa's Instagram page, she is on the hunt for a college in the fall. New York University is one of her top choices.
"NYU is one of her top schools. (Natalia chose not to apply ED to her top 5 schools). I will do my best to keep her in Cali just like I kept her daddy here. ???????? #CaliGirlForever ☀️????" Vanessa wrote.
Multiple models, from Martha Hunt to Ashley Graham and Lily Aldridge, commented on the announcement, congratulating the teen for signing the deal.
"Welcome to the fam gorgeous @nataliabryant !!! ????????????," Hunt wrote.
Stars like Gigi Hadid and Ciara also liked the post.
"So beautiful. So excited for you, sunshine!" Ciara wrote.
The agency has been on a hot streak as of late, recently signing star Inauguration Day poet Amanda Gorman and also bringing on Ella Emhoff, the stepdaughter of Vice President Kamala Harris.
IMG Models’ senior vice president Maja Chiesi told WWD that it was an honor for the agency to sign someone like Natalia.
“Natalia has such a bright future ahead of her, and we were taken aback by her beauty, talent and drive from our first encounter. We’re honored to partner with Natalia in shaping her career in fashion and beauty, and we look forward to connecting her with fresh, exciting opportunities that showcase her multifaceted personality and look,” Chiesi said.
