When Robert Dupé was younger, he dreamed of becoming a professional football player, but life took a different turn. At the age of 19, he was randomly scouted by a modeling agency, and today he is not only an internationally recognized model seen all over the world, but also a successful entrepreneur driven by a desire to make a difference.
His ambition is to inspire young people to believe in themselves and invest in their dreams, regardless of their background.
Roger, tell us your story!
I started my modeling career at 19 after being randomly scouted in Stockholm while shopping with some friends.
Modeling was never something I had really considered before. My dream was always to become a professional football player. Unfortunately, I did not reach my full potential in football, but I found a different path that allowed me to pursue other goals and dreams.
What changes have you seen in the modeling industry since you started?
I have seen some changes over the years, but I still hope they are more than just temporary trends within the fashion and beauty industry. At the same time, there is still a long way to go. Progress around topics such as diversity and inclusion often moves very slowly.
I also understand that it takes time for large organizations to truly change and implement new strategies, but these conversations need to be addressed much earlier. Real changes have to come from within the organizations and from leadership positions; the same issues will continue to repeat themselves.
You have written a book called Den motvilliga modellen. What is it about?
I published my autobiography in 2019, where I shared my journey from Bäckby, a suburb of Västerås in Sweden, to becoming an internationally recognized model. I felt it was important to tell my story because it could inspire and help others who come from a similar background.
It has not been an easy journey. Many people only see a small part of the work I do, whether it is campaigns, billboards, or magazine covers, and assume that my life is purely glamorous. That is far from the whole truth.
I have achieved a lot, and I am both proud and grateful for it. At the same time, I never expected modeling to take me this far while also being so tough and lonely at times. But I am not complaining. I simply want to make the best of my situation, create my own path, and enjoy the journey. I am very thankful that I dared to try something different.
You have also started your own skincare brand. What is the story behind Melyon?
The name Meylon is inspired by the word melanin and the Togolese and Ghanaian expression Enyonam, which means “It’s good for me.” My mother always told me that even if you cannot afford the most expensive clothes, you should always take care of yourself. In West Africa, healthy and soft skin is often seen as an accessible form of status and self-care, and I think many people can relate to that idea.
Was it an easy decision to start your own company?
Yes and no. I was willing to go through the process and adapt quickly, but I also understood that building something truly good takes time.
What is your long-term goal and vision for Melyon?
My goal with Meylon is to build a global company with a vision of redefining beauty ideals.
What is the best part of your job?
The freedom to create and bring my vision to life together with my team.
What would you say is your greatest success and your greatest fear or challenge?
One of my greatest successes has been my work with Rolls-Royce, but I also see my failures as part of my success because they have taught me so much.
As for my greatest fear or challenge, I would say it is stepping into things I have never done before and learning through the process itself.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope I will have become a fulfilled version of myself and that I will be sharing my life with my partner.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Take your time. Life is a long road. Do more things that make you happy.
