Keon Campbell

Before their name was trending, we told their story first. Revisit the feature that captured this Classic Man’s rise long before the world caught on…

We are going to hear a lot more in the Toronto fashion and entertainment scene about the young man that I am bringing to you this edition. It is not just his looks, or charisma that is capturing attention, it’s his: heart, his purpose, and his unwavering gratitude for life. While he is turning heads with his bold sense of style and undeniable presence, it is what’s beneath the surface that truly sets him apart. Raised in a tight-knit community, he knows the value of hard work and resilience, and he is using his platform to give back, dedicated to uplifting those around him.

I first met our Classic Man when I was asked to judge a beauty contest during the summer. On our first meeting, I saw something special. He carried himself with such poise, a true gentleman. He was also one of the judges, and we instantly hit it off. Upon speaking to him, I knew I wanted to tell his story.

Beyond the runway, he is building a legacy as a community activist, speaking up for the underserved, mentoring young men, and driving change from the ground up. His mission? To inspire others to realize their own potential, just as he has embraced his.

It is his deep gratitude for every opportunity, every moment, which fuels his journey. From his success in fashion to his dedication to making a difference, Keon Campbell is not just modeling clothes, he’s modeling the future of his community. I had a moment to sit down with this beautiful soul, and he shared with me a bit of his journey.

“I was born and raised in Scarborough Ontario,” Keon began, “And my family then moved to Ajax. Most of my elementary and high school years were in Ajax, and I had to deal with some growing pains (which I will discuss a little later), and my parents were forced to send me to boarding school in the west end.”

“In elementary school I had a passion for fashion. For some reason, I had this knack for matching colours, and I had a great sense of style that was noticed. It was something that I was just good at.”

Keon then shared a pivotal moment from his childhood that shaped who he is today.

“I was a mischief when I was younger, and I got myself into a lot of trouble. I was very: rebellious, tough, aggressive, and hardheaded. I got myself in a little trouble, and I know that I disappointed my parents at times. I had been kicked out of all the schools in Durham. I was hanging out with bad company, and this brought out bad behaviour. It was being in the courtroom that shifted that for me; I could have landed myself in a lot of trouble, and it made me reflect on my actions. I knew I was better than this. I knew I had to do better. I was about 17 when I stopped all the nonsense.”

Going to boarding was the beginning of the change for Keon…

“My uncle had mentioned modeling to me, and this was after my body changed. I used to be a much bigger guy. I was 210 pounds, muscular and stocky. People do not know much about my past, because I focus on my future. My actual 9:00 – 5:00 is as a chef. Currently I work at Compass Group Canada, a company based in the UK. I work with Eurest Dining Service; we ship out to hospitals, and other companies.”

“Then Covid happened. I said to myself, instead of sitting on my ass, and complaining during the lockdown, I started to make content. Someone reached out to me from Black Fashion and Beauty Gala asking for me to participate in a photo shoot, and that was really the beginning of it.”

“My challenges were building my confidence and learning how to pose. I tend to overthink things a lot. At first it was quite nerve racking, but when I did it, I knew right away it was where I was supposed to be. It became fulfilling and satisfying, and now I have been doing this for four years now.”

I asked Keon to share what the next chapter of his life looked like. What legacy did he hope to leave behind, both as a model and as a person?

“I want young Black men to understand my story, and find their potential to set their course, not focus on their past. You either love your life, or you don’t love your life. No matter where you come from, or what choices you make, never sell yourself short. You were placed in the world to fulfill your purpose. Think about it, a man like me being featured in Times Square. If I can do this, you can do it.”

“Don’t beat yourself up over the decisions that you make. You have to think big and go for it. Trust yourself. Be consistent. Be persistent and go for it.”

Ladies, just an FYI, on Saturday, November 23^rd, at the Monte Carlo Inn: 7035 Edwards Blvd, Mississauga, Keon Campbell will be representing the African-Caribbean community at the ​​Mister International Canada Competition. The event is FREE, so you are all invited.

Handsome. Talented. Grateful. Keon is more than a face in the crowd—he’s a force for change, a name that will be remembered.