Natalia Bryant, the eldest daughter of Kobe and Vanessa Bryant, inked a modeling contract with IMG Models.
On Monday (Feb. 8), the agency announced the news on Instagram along with a black and white headshot of Natalia. “I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age,” the 18-year-old said in a statement. “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 shared IMG’s announcement to her Instagram Stories. “I am beyond thrilled and so honored to be a part of the IMG family!” she wrote.
Vanessa also shared IMG’s original post to her Instagram Stories and added a GIF that said, “I am so proud of you.”
Last month, the Bryant family celebrated Natalia’s 18th birthday. Vanessa shared throwback photos of her daughter with Kobe, who was tragically killed last year in a helicopter crash, along with their 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others. “Dear Natalia, Happy Birthday! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of the young lady that you are,” Vanessa wrote. “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.”
She called her eldest daughter an “incredible big sister” and “a beautiful role model.” Vanessa also thanked her “for being kind, polite and gracious” in everything she did. “You have no idea how happy and proud mommy and daddy are that you’re our daughter,” she wrote. “We love you always and forever, forever and always. Happy 18th birthday to our firstborn, Natalia, our principessa! Love always, Mommy, Daddy, Gigi, BB and Koko.”
Congratulations to Natalia on her new endeavor. Check out IMG’s post below.