Natalia Bryant, the oldest daughter of the late basketball icon, Kobe Bryant and his widow, former model Vanessa Bryant, has announced that she has signed with IMG Models.
The 18-year-old has been mainly low key, posting pics of her and her family to her 2.3 million followers. However, she posted a few black and white shots over the summer that show she clearly has inherited the quality both her parents share–a photogenic smile and a clear comfort in front of the camera.
Despite the hard year the Bryant women have experienced after the death of Kobe and Gianna, Natalia’s younger sister, the high school senior has often been featured in her mother’s photos or captions.
“Mommy and Daddy are so proud of the young lady that you are,” Vanessa wrote on the new model’s 18th birthday. “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. Thank you for being kind, polite, gracious in everything 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.”
Bryant joins poet laureate Amanda Gorman and Vice President Kamala Harris’ stepdaughter, Ella Emhoff, in signing with IMG Models who have a roster of clients that include Gisele Bündchen, Chanel Iman and Ashley Graham.
Bryant released a short statement with the news: “I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age,” she said. “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.”