FROM THE SOCCER FIELD TO MODELLING PHOTO-SHOOT

Zimbabwean footballer based in South Africa interacted with us as he tells about his journey in the world of soccer and the main reason on why ,he joined the modelling sector.
We also discuss on his thoughts on how Zimbabwe ‘s modelling industry can deal with ‘Lack Of Models Exposure’.
Laslty we get to find out more about Sasha Donovan’s ambitions on the world of football .
TR:You are a soccer player can you tell us what it means being at the field?
SD:Football is not just a game, in the past years it has been more of a lifestyle than being on the field, I would write a book about my life since I discovered my talent in football however today I want to talk about the most important thing which is victory, the moment I step into the field of play my mind turns to winning mode.
To me being in the field has always been about hard work, courage, consistence, team spirit, discipline and winning at the end of the day, there is nothing I hate more than losing a match.
I don’t remember any day I stepped into a pitch with a negative mind or felt like a loser before the match, there is no room for disappointment however in football you win some and you lose some.
To summarize everything passion has always been the driving force to my football career.

TR:Sasha you were based in SA, what are the major differences you can spot in modeling industry between the two countries?
SD:Lack of Exposure in Zimbabwe has been a very major problem in the modeling industry, like South Africa, Zimbabwe should introduce competitive online magazines, fashion shows, casting opportunities for movies or soap operas, representation on national TV and to seek more sponsorships which work on International auditions. The media has not done justice in publicizing Zimbabwean models to the rest of the world.
Payment factor, in South Africa the modelling industry has become a reputable industry where people like David J kabamba have managed to make a living out of it, in Zimbabwe modeling has become more like a hobby more than a reputable business where by models are not rightfully compensated for their work. Some models actually work for free in the name of “featuring in music videos are free photo shots”
TR:Why did you think of joining the modeling industry and how has it been?
SD:To be honest the idea of joining the modeling industry was influenced by my sister Anita Sibonokuhle Guvi, she always told me how photogenic I was, how I should try and venture into the industry, put myself out there and see how the industry would accept me, Anita believed I had what it takes.
Inspiration came from my best friend Nkosinathi Masuku who has been in the industry for quite some time.
I would say being in the Industry has been quite a bumpy ride because of the pandemic, I wasn’t certain whether I would carry on after the pandemic, I had no motivation, I felt like time wasn’t on my side, I looked to venture into other things but I had to soldier on, by grace I found a home at CFMODELS, where I am looking forward to grow and become a star and make a lot of memories.
I believe CFMODELS has been the stepping stone I always needed to be appreciated in the modeling industry.
TR:Who is your role model in both football and modeling sector?
SD:Since time immemorial Ronaldinho has always been my role model in football, his style of play was unique, one would conclude that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo combined would match his kind of football.
More so in the modeling industry I would say Terence Jenkins’s fashion sense has really inspired me. As a model, presenter and actor he has managed to make his way up to the entertainment industry due to his confidence, looks, style and trend.

TR:What sets you apart from other models?
SD:To me modelling goes beyond the physical.
It’s a platform to showcase that one can succeed no matter the background. It’s an opportunity to inspire people, to influence the world positively. It’s my way of reaching out to a young boy who has dreams but has lost hope. It’s sending a message that ” you can become anything you want to be if you work hard”
TR:Currently as a model what are you working on and which brands are you planning to work with in future?
SD:I consider myself an amateur in the Industry, I am looking forward to learn, acquire a skill, enhance my knowledge, equip myself and be well versed with industry expectations, I am working on building a name, nurture myself as a brand, in a nutshell have an exceptional and appealing portfolio that will get me gigs.
To be an international model, representing brands like Adidas, Gentlemen’s closet and Giorgio Amarni would be a dream come true.
TR:What are some of the challenges are you facing in the industry?
SD:For now the only challenge would be getting exposed to the industry. We’re still in times of uncertainty, the world is slowly going back to normal and hopefully as a newbie I will make my way smoothly in the modeling industry when everything returns back to normal.
TR:Given a chance to play for any club back home which team would it be and why?
SD:I grew up in Mzilikazi, Bulawayo supporting Highlanders (Bosso) and I haven’t changed, I would definitely consider it as cowardice and treason to play for any other team besides Highlanders. More so I believe it has lost it’s former glory and it would be a pleasure to be part of the players that restore that former glory that the fanatics at Barbourfields stadium long for.
TR: Briefly can you describe yourself to the readers ?
DS:I am a very hardworking and ambitious person who has a deep passion to succeed which acts as my driving force. I am a very creative and initiative person who is full of drive, performs duties with dedication and commitment.
I am 23 years of age and currently residing in Mzilikazi, Bulawayo.
As an aspiring model I am interested in being a commercial and runaway model due to my fascination in different styles of fashion.
I am also talented in Football, as I am currently playing for Stamina Football Academy in South Africa.
TV presenting, featuring on adverts and acting roles are also some of my interests in the entertainment sector. One of my motivational/ inspirational quotes is ”Victory is not my destination but my drive to reach beyond that”.