Strutting down fashion runways, captivating in editorial spreads, and redefining beauty standards, trailblazer Althea Laing has undeniably broken stereotypes, paving the way for other models to follow. Earlier this month, she celebrated her 70th birthday and Sunday Lifestyle caught up with her as she savoured the cherished moments.

“My birthday celebration was nothing short of amazing. I was surrounded by the people who made a difference in my life– people who exhibited loyalty and sincerity. This is the first time in 35 years I have celebrated a birthday, so the memories of my 70th will be indelibly etched on the pages of my mind. Thanks to Dimario McDowell, Gem Myers, Allison Peart, Janet Fagan and Brian ‘Ribby’ Chung, I was able to celebrate after losing everything to Hurricane Melissa,” the internationally acclaimed model explained, noting that the recent devastation hit much closer to home than expected.

Despite the setback, Laing remains both grateful and graceful, as she continues to shine her light in every room she walks in. To reach three scores and ten, as promised in the Bible, is truly a remarkable feat, and anything beyond that is considered ‘brawta’ in her book.