Mikhaila "Coco" Rocha, born on September 10, 1988, in Toronto, Canada, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and versatile models of her generation, earning the distinction of being called the first "digital" supermodel. Raised in Richmond, British Columbia, Rocha was discovered at a young age when she attended a fashion show in Vancouver at just fourteen. Her unique look, characterized by her striking features and an almost preternatural ability to pose, quickly set her apart in an industry that was just beginning to embrace the power of the internet. She rose to international prominence after being spotted by the legendary photographer Steven Meisel, who booked her for a major editorial in Italian Vogue, a move that catapulted her from a relative unknown to a runway sensation almost overnight.

Rocha’s career is defined not only by her prolific work on the catwalk—she has walked for countless top designers, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Alexander McQueen—but also by her pioneering use of social media and digital platforms. Long before it became standard practice, she used her online presence to connect directly with fans and document her life, earning her the "digital supermodel" moniker. Her advocacy for younger models has been a cornerstone of her legacy; she has been a vocal proponent for stricter age requirements and better working conditions within the fashion industry. In 2014, she collaborated on the critically acclaimed book Study of Pose, a photographic collection that showcased her extraordinary range and cemented her status as a muse for photographers and artists alike.

Beyond her modeling work, Rocha has built a substantial entrepreneurial empire. She founded the Coco Rocha Model Camp, an intensive program designed to teach aspiring models the technical skills and business acumen needed to succeed in the modern fashion world. She also co-owns the Nomad Management Modeling Agency, where she has taken an active role in mentoring and developing new talent, often championing a more ethical and transparent approach to the business. Her influence extends into television as well; in 2025, it was announced that she would host the reboot of Project Runway Canada on Crave, bringing her extensive industry knowledge to a new generation of designers. Throughout her career, Rocha has remained a sought-after collaborator, working with brands like Karl Lagerfeld and appearing in campaigns for major houses, all while maintaining a reputation for professionalism and a fiercely independent spirit. Her journey from a small-town teenager to a global icon and businesswoman underscores her lasting impact on the fashion landscape.