Modelling agencies are recruiting young people who have fled war-torn African countries and are living in extreme poverty. They are flown to Europe to take part in fashion castings, but some return within days or weeks, often laden with debt. We speak to the journalists behind the Sunday Times investigation. 

With thanks to Edwin Okoth who provided additional reporting on this investigation, and Mari Malek from Runways to Freedom. 

This episode contains material that some listeners may find upsetting.

This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes.

Guests:

• Lisa Brinkworth, freelance journalist.
• Hugo Daniel, Reporter, The Sunday Times. 

Host: Manveen Rana. 

Clips: 9 News Australia, The Times. 

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