The graduation ceremony of the first batch of older models trained by Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT) in collaboration with Hu Sheguang Supermodels, a modeling training platform established by the renowned designer, took place on Sunday in Beijing.

Gong Yan, associate dean of BIFT's Continuing Education College; Han Jialu, director of the model training program; and Hu attended the ceremony, where they awarded certificates to the graduates, recognizing them as qualified older models, older model mentors and supermodel examiners.

"With China's rapid aging population and people's rising demand to entertain themselves through fashion after retirement, we decided to hold this training program for older women who aspire to shine on the catwalk," said Hu.

"Our collaboration with BIFT aims to give the program more credit and correct the public opinion that older models are not real models," he added.

With "joyful fashion" as the core, the training program is designed to not only empower participants with sought-after modeling classes but also instill confidence in each of them.

Noting the increasing demand for professional modeling training among retirees and the growing popularity of older models on the international catwalk, such as the 93-year-old American model Carmen Dell' Orefice, Hu set up Hu Sheguang Supermodels in 2018.

Over the years since its establishment, Hu's global modeling training platform has garnered nearly 8,500 members with an average of 55 from all walks of life, with bases in more than 100 cities. It has also sent members such as Han Bin to strut on international catwalks such as New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week.

"We will make this training program a regular one and keep innovating its courses to nurture more fashion enthusiasts into professional models," Hu said.