When it comes to Samuel Aitken, it is clear that star quality is an attribute that courses through his veins. Son of the famed 80s model, Victoria Lockwood, and baring a family connection to late Lady Diana herself, it would be fair to assume that he is destined for great things. With this in mind, the 18-year-old name has turned his attentions to modelling as of late in a bid to continue on the legacy set by his parents, as well as carve out a unique spot for himself in the world.

When discussing his future career, Samuel claimed, “Growing up in a household where both my mother and father were models, as well as my sisters, it seemed like something I would want to explore because it gives you the possibility to travel, experience new things and meet fascinating people in the industry. Coincidentally my mother and Robin Fryer (the owner and director of 20 Model Management in Cape Town) had both been modelling in New York and were both Bruce Weber discoveries. I’m really excited to be a part of the 20 family!”

Speaking on the overwhelming transition between leaving high school and entering adulthood, as well as the best advice his mother has ever given him, Samuel sat down with Wonderland for a candid chat. Head below to enjoy…

Hey Samuel, how are you? How has this past year been for you?
Hello Wonderland, I’m doing good, thank you!

Loads of people picked up unusual skills during lockdown; did you try anything new?
The past year has been tough with Covid-19 lockdowns and restrictions on top of balancing my final year of school, and the academic pressures that come with it. Nevertheless, I’m grateful for all opportunities I’ve had this year and all the challenges I’ve had to face, which ultimately made me stronger.

You’ve just graduated from high school, did you find it difficult to finish during COVID?
During lockdown, I decided to learn how to cook as I figured eggs on toast wasn’t viable for someone leaving school in the long run. I actually really enjoy cooking and learned to make many dishes, which I am proud of. Knowing how to make mushroom ravioli from scratch will definitely be my biggest flex. Other than cooking, I spent most of my time in lockdown studying and exercising as I really wanted to keep my mind and body healthy and fit and come out of lockdown better than I went into it. Being part of first team rugby definitely helped me stay motivated and disciplined.

The impact Covid has had on my last two years of school is undoubtedly a devastating one, and there is a sense of ‘what could have been’, as I’ve missed out on so many sports fixtures, cultural functions and school events. However, the past two years has also taught me to reevaluate what’s important in my life, and this had led to me improving the quality of relationships with the people around me as well as enjoying the small things in life that we tend to take for granted, like trips to the beach and swims in the sea.

And now you’re getting into modelling full time, what made you want to get into modelling?
Growing up in a household where both my mother and father were models, as well as my sisters, it seemed like something I would want to explore because it gives you the possibility to travel, experience new things and meet fascinating people in the industry. Coincidentally my mother and Robin Fryer (the owner and director of 20 Model Management in Cape Town) had both been modelling in New York and were both Bruce Weber discoveries. I’m really excited to be a part of the 20 family!

What was the best advice that your mother gave you regarding the industry?
The best advice my mum has given me is to treat everyone with kindness and respect, no matter what their role is in the industry. And to be professional, because she didn’t take it seriously enough at times looking back at it now.

You’ve travelled to some cool places, which has been the most memorable?
Italy, specifically Rome, was definitely the most beautiful and dramatic place I’ve travelled to, because of their rich culture and history. I’ve never seen a city so magical, romantic and just breathtaking. Needless to say, their food is the most delicious in the world.

What are you most excited for in 2022?
In 2022, I’m most excited to be free and start this next journey no longer as a schoolboy and to be able to embrace the exciting adventures and opportunities that are going to come my way.