Mode Around the Globe: Ballo

Mode Around The Globe: Belize
Ballo
@prettyboiballo__

Photography by Sam Spence
@samspencework

Location: The Banks Resort
Almond Beach Resort
The Lodge At Jaguar Reef

What inspired you to start your journey as an influencer and model?
It all started in 2021. I was originally a football player and saw some of my close friends onTikTok. I started posting and blew up quickly. My main inspiration for modeling was Mark Wahlberg. I always admired him growing up-especially his Calvin Klein campaigns-and thought, 'I want to do that.'

What's a beauty or fashion trend you're currently obsessed with? 
For beauty, probably Korean skincare-I think it's the best ever. For fashion, Japanese style. I went to Japan for my birthday in November and absolutely fell in love with it. Their everyday outfits are next-level and very in line with my own style.

What's something you always bring on every trip, no matter what?
Too many clothes-and definitely my facial cleanser!

What's one thing social media doesn't show about your real life?
Probably my personality. People might assume I'm just a pretty boy or an F-boy based on what they see online, but I'm actually super genuine and hilarious. My friends would say the same-I'm the same person, just a different font.

What's a moment you felt truly proud of yourself?
When I first moved to LA at 19 and started booking modeling jobs and movies. That's when I realized I was actually doing what I said I would do.

In three words, how would you describe your current chapter?
Hard work. Upscaling. Fun.

What's a moment in your career that made you stop and think, "Wow, this is real"?
Booking Vogue x Moschino with Jeremy Scott. He had been looking for me for a while and it was the biggest job I've done. I was proud of myself and my team.

Who do you look to for creative inspiration?
My inner self.

What's a place that always inspires you?
Anywhere outside the U.S. I find it amazing and inspiring to see how people live and go about their day-to-day lives around the world.

What's a piece of advice that changed your life?
Not everyone is your friend. Not everyone wants to see you win-or fail.

What's one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I'm really good at bowling! Also, people might not realize how mature I am-I'm a big kid, but I've got depth.

How would your best friend describe you in three words?
Overconfident. Humble. Hardworking.

If you could relive one moment, just to feel it again, what would it be?
Honestly, I wouldn't. I'm too focused on the present and future-I believe everything happens for a reason.

What's a movie you know every line to?
Eight Mile.

What would you title your memoir—if you wrote one tomorrow?
I Am.

What's something you're manifesting right now?
More modeling jobs, financial abundance to support others, and continued happiness.

What's next for you?
Whatever God has planned-bigger campaigns, bigger paychecks, and the next chapter of life.

What was your favorite part of Modeliste's Belize Getaway?
Honestly, just being there. I'm a homebody, but the whole experience was amazing. A
highlight was when a group of kids recognized me and asked for photos-it was such a wholesome moment.

What did you love most about Jaguar Reef and The Banks resorts?
The food was incredible, and the people-genuinely kind and welcoming, not just because they work there.

What do you love most about Modeliste Magazine?
The imagery is so well thought out-not just basic photo shoots. And I really appreciate that they wanted to work with me!