What Lies Beneath...  Irène Major 

Knowing Irène Major is knowing a woman who understands the power of presence.

It's through her bold style, theatrical glamour and unapologetic approach to self-expression that she has built a public image that is impossible to ignore. But beneath the fashion, colour and spectacle lies a story shaped by Cameroonian heritage, deep faith, motherhood, resilience and an enduring belief in what is still possible.

As a mother of nine, model, artist, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Irène’s life has been defined not only by ambition, but by love, service and the desire to create a meaningful legacy. Her confidence is not rooted in the need for approval, but in a clear understanding of who she is and the values that  deeply guide her.

For this What Lies Beneath, we speak to Irène about the character behind the image, the lessons inherited from her mother, the freedom that comes from self acceptance and why she believes her greatest contribution is still ahead of her.

TSB - What is your earliest memory of understanding that the way you presented yourself could shape how the world responded to you?

Irene -  I think modelling was the first time I truly understood the power of presentation. Fashion has always been a form of expression for me, and I realised that the way I carried myself often shaped people’s first impression. But I’ve also learned that while style may open the door, it’s your character that leaves the lasting impression. Those who know me beyond the image discover my heart, my generosity, my humility and my love for people.

TSB - Which part of your Cameroonian heritage do you feel you carry most visibly, and which part lives more privately within you?

Irene - The part people see immediately is my boldness, my optimism and my joie de vivre. Cameroonians have a wonderful energy, and I carry that with pride. More privately, I carry my faith. My relationship with God is the foundation of everything I do. I truly believe that with God all things are possible, and that dreams really can become reality.

TSB - What quality do you most admire in a woman, and who first showed you what that quality looked like?

Irene - I admire resilience above all else. A woman who continues to stand tall, even when life has been difficult, inspires me deeply. We all have a responsibility to inspire others, not because life is perfect, but because we choose to keep moving forward despite the challenges. The first person who taught me that was my mother. She raised nine children with very little, yet somehow filled our childhood with love, joy and unforgettable memories. She taught me resourcefulness, strength and gratitude. Looking back, so many of the lessons she lived by still guide me today. Those life skills are priceless, and I will always be grateful to her.

TSB - As a mother of nine, how has motherhood changed your understanding of beauty, ambition and the kind of woman you want to be?

Irene - Motherhood has deepened my understanding of selflessness. I’ve always cared for others, but becoming a mother expanded that love beyond what I thought was possible. It has shown me that beauty isn’t just about appearance—it’s found in kindness, sacrifice and the legacy you leave behind. My ambition today isn’t only about personal success; it’s about creating opportunities and an example for my children and for those around me.

TSB - What do you believe society most often misunderstands about women who choose to take up space?

Irene - I think every woman has the right to pursue the life she dreams of without apologising for it. There is room in this world for all of us. Sometimes people won’t understand your vision straight away, and that’s okay. Stay true to yourself, keep working, keep inspiring, and let your actions speak louder than opinions. The people who doubt you today may be the very ones applauding you tomorrow.

TSB - When have you felt most free to express yourself, without considering expectation, judgement or approval?

Irene - Honestly, most of my life. I’ve always believed that life is rooted in love, family, purpose and faith. Once you understand who you are, you stop living for approval. I don’t make choices to satisfy everyone else—I make them knowing they align with my values. Real freedom comes from being content with who you are, regardless of what others think.

TSB - What role does faith play in the way you understand your purpose, your resilience and the life you are building?

Irene - Faith is at the centre of everything I do. It keeps me grounded, grateful and hopeful. It gives me the strength to persevere through difficult seasons and reminds me that every challenge has a purpose. My faith continues to guide my decisions and keeps me focused on the life I believe I’m called to build.

TSB - What lies beneath the version of you people think they know?

Irene - People often see the glamour, the fashion and the public image, but there is so much more beneath the surface. I’m someone who has overcome adversity, who loves deeply, believes fiercely and dreams without limits. 

People have only seen a chapter of my story. I believe my greatest contribution is still ahead of me.”, Time will reveal even more of who I am.