Winning Mister Ideal Nigeria,is a ticket for one to represent the Naija Nation at Mister Africa International which will be hosted this year in London. However before one takes the same adventure which was taken by legendary models:Emmanuel Umoh,Jidekene,Alvin Abayomi,Gedeni and Hernuis,Bem Toutito,Wale Bello and Daze Blaze . Is suppose to contest among other Nigerian male models for a position, Mister Ideal Nigeria which will be a ticket for them to automatical represent Nigeria in London. The 14th edition of Mister Ideal Nigeria is opened for every male person with no restrictions except for at least the age which is only for 18-35. The winner is expected to walk away with cash and gifts including a car. Out going and former kings have had a opportunity of catwalking in international runways.
“Reigning kings Ronald , Zander , Zeal have walked on some of the biggest fashion shows including – Mercedez Benz fashion show Kigali , Global fashion week Accra, Vie- Dubai International fashion week , Lagos Fashion week , Ghanamesnwear week etc,”said House of Twitch.
The pageant’s Ceo,Ayotunde Twitch advised the public that this is not only about the winner benefits everything.He said also runner ups will gain something. “Its not a case of winner takes all , as customary the runner ups will get the opportunity to travel and represent the country on some of the biggest international fashion shows and international pageants”,said Twitch.
To register , send name , picture and whatsapp number to mridealnigeria@gmail.com
The Zeal Nation has been supportive to Oworeugwem Eugene Effet,who is Nigerian model whom last year won the title Mister Ideal Nigeria -Tourism.He also represented Nigeria during Mister Africa International 2022 which was held in Angola.He shares some details on how his life changed since he joined the House of Twitch.We also talked about his other achievements such as catwalking at GFW .
Q.You are prominently known as Zeal Effect can you tell us about yourself?A.My name is Oworeugwem Eugene Effet, popularly known as Zeal – Mr Ideal Nigeria-Tourism 2022 and Mister Africa International – Nigeria 2022/2023. I am a Model, Actor, Brand Influencer and Content Creator, signed to House Of Twitch Talent Management.I’m a graduate of Microbiology from the University of Port Harcourt.I’ve always been a huge fan of talent and creativity, from my days at the University, and I got directly involved in entertainment activities in Port Harcourt since 2018.Planning and hosting events, meet and greets, and parties within and around the school was something I did with my friends regularly, and, for me, it was about bringing people together to unwind and connect in a relaxed environment. In 2021, I decided to explore my talents within the modelling space, hence my journey to becoming Mr Ideal Nigeria.Being my first exposure to modelling, there were several ups and downs, detours and obstacles, but in all, I believe it was meant to be.Regardless of how much progress I made with little or no experience, I wouldn’t be in a hurry to say I’m special, but I know that there are certain qualities I have that make me stand out wherever I’m found.Above all, the fact that I’m straightforward, diligent with my work, open to learning and correction, and delight in making people cheerful would be what makes me exceptional.In December 2022, I made my runway debut at the Global fashion week in Accra, Ghana.Following my progress with Modeling, I went further to explore my goal of getting involved in acting, by attending one of the leading film institutes in Nigeria, the Royal Art Academy.While in training, my delivery stood out from the rest, and I got the lead role in several projects.Among the projects include Selina 2 and Battle of the Exes, which both have combined views of over 2,800,000 on YouTube.
Apart from work, there are other things I hold to heart, so much that they define my life and inform my decisions, and in order of priority, they include God, Family, Legacy, Money, Friends, Happiness and Fun.Also, I have a thing for mind games, and will always never turn down a conversation on varying topics, from romance, adventure, entertainment, art, and, of course, finance, provided they offer intelligent perspectives.One would wonder what I’m trying to achieve with all of this – acting, pageantry, modelling, and other endeavours.For me, it’s all about impact.You know that tingling sensation you get when someone smiles back at you for coming through?The swelling in your chest when you see others benefit from a legacy you built or when you get a text saying ‘Thank you’?That’s what I live for, and it has led me to launch my foundation this year “ZEAL NATION FOUNDATION”.Our goal is simple: to lift as many people as possible out of hunger and poverty, and put smiles on people’s faces, while making the world a tiny teeny weeny little bit better.
Q.How has House of Twitch changed your life?A.When I decided to venture into modelling, I was doing so, bearing the whole responsibility for the risk.At the time, I had zero experience or exposure, and here I was, soliciting support in cash and kindness from friends, family and strangers, just to keep the dream alive.I started taking classes and gym sessions in preparation for the journey, and the only hope I had was that God put the dream in my heart and He will fulfil it.My whole journey from Port Harcourt to Lagos for Mr Ideal Nigeria 2022 was a miracle; I had to pray for every ounce of support that took me there, and I believe that God rewarded my effort.Nevertheless, things changed after I emerged victorious at the pageant.Becoming a part of the House of Twitch family felt like handing a silver spoon to a child that is used to eating with his hands.The progress I’ve made in 10 months would ordinarily have taken me, at least, 4 years, but with the experienced guidance and mentorship of Mr Ayotunde Twitch, I’ve gone from being an inexperienced model to walking the runway at an International Global Fashion Week, being sought after by designers.As part of their unending contribution to my success, I received a scholarship to attend film school where I got to explore acting and the opportunities that exist there.Like any other journey, there have been obstacles and some detours, even certain mistakes and shortcomings on my part, but the team has been empathetic and helped me fight certain battles and struggles on my way up.They have provided a platform for me to explore my talents, explore new ideas and discover myself. For me, House of Twitch is like an all-in-one package – instead of chasing everything one after the other, they understand your unique journey and set you up for the opportunities that best suit you.
Q.You recently catwalked at GFW, can to share with us how you manage to be part of thd participates?A.I was invited by the producers of Global Fashion Week, Accra.Every year, one Royal from Mr Ideal Nigeria with an exceptional walk gets an invite to rock the runway.As life would have it, this year, they found selected me to do the magic, and the rest is history.
Q.How did you resist nerves during GFW?A..This is such a valid question because, not only was it my first time on the runway, it happened that it was a runway as big as GFW.I had always been eager to play the international game, and there have been opportunities here and there, but due to some constraints, I had to let them go.When it was confirmed that I’ll be attending GFW, it felt like I had a point to prove to myself and my family (my biological family, House of Twitch, my friends, and others that support my journey).I needed to prove that I want a ‘one-hit-wonder’.I needed to show that my success at Mr Ideal Nigeria 2022 was a product of grace and diligence as opposed to mere luck.As expected, the pressure was real, but then, it has always been about going hard or going home.And the only time we go home is to celebrate the success of going hard.The nerves and pressure all led me to put in the work.I spent as much time preparing my mind for the task as I did perfecting my poise, walk and posture.I repurposed the pressure into motivation, and I let it drive me.Let’s just say I learnt from those who have gone ahead.Like J Cole would say, I studied the greats… I’m the greatest right now.
Q.Who are the designers you catwalked for?A. I walked for five incredible designers
Brands I walked for.
Celia’s Inspiration
GC Batik
Fenz
Bushai Weave
Cheddars clothing
My favourite design was the ‘agbada’ by Cheddars clothing.It felt like they made it with me in mind.The look, the feel and the overall exuberance of the design inspired confidence and gusto in me.
Q. Among your achievements this year, you participated at Mister Africa International.What was the most memoriable moment for you ?A. The truth about Mister Africa International is that, at some point, it felt like a leap of faith.Although I got involved in other things, following the success of Mr Ideal Nigeria 2022, when the opportunity came to represent Nigeria at Mister Africa International, it felt natural.I was eager to put myself out on the continental stage, meet other amazing people and brands, and gain relevant exposure.It felt like a should-happen. All of me wanted to go to Angola and secure the top spot.When the preliminary stages of the competition started, it was such a smooth ride, going through without much stress.During the Fan Voting Stage on Instagram, things changed.
In the case of Mr Ideal Nigeria, I was leading the Instagram Voting almost from start to finish, except for when another contestant began to gain grounds during final hours.
Considering my experience with Instagram Voting, I thought it would be another walk in the park.
To my surprise, when the Instagram Fan Vote stage started, it took a while for me to get substantial votes.
Days into the voting, I was struggling to be in the Top 10.
In the midst of the despair, I realized how much further people can go with the relevant support.In course of Mr Ideal Nigeria, we started a community of friends, family, friends of friends, and even strangers who go all out to support me.Tagged – Zeal Nation – members pool resources in cash and favours, rally around themselves to make sure that I have all I need to get to the next level.They are the pillar upon which my success stands.When it was obvious that I was struggling with the voting stage of Mister Africa International, they accepted the responsibility for my success, and they went all out to canvas for votes.I’ll never forget the support of the Mr Ideal Nigeria Team whose support provided a solid launching pad for me.
The Port Harcourt branch of Zeal Nation went as far as contacting Social Media Influencers, sponsoring my posts on blogs and reposting my content.After all said and done, with the overwhelming support I enjoyed, we finished the Instagram Voting Stage on top.The whole thing has been surreal, with the support of such as selfless community whose preoccupation is my progress.With them, I can dream bigger and aim for the stars, knowing that they will always come through.
Q. What do you think should be done to develop Africa’s modeling industry for both pageants and runway?A. Modelling is still a growing industry in Africa, and I’m happy to be a part of it at this level.
It helps me understand the unique challenges we face and offers the opportunity to contribute to the change we want to see.
In order of priority, I believe that, despite the power of networking, no great system can be built on cliques and cartels.
There has to be a system that identifies raw talent across the continent, gives such talent the opportunity to learn and improve, and expose them to levels they would only have dreamt of.
Like in my case, I have come this far in such a short time because House of Twitch was willing to take a chance on me, and bear the risk of giving an inexperienced guy the platform to learn, make mistakes and grow.
Provided that there is no defined pathway to identify and harness talents across the continent, we will either keep over working the system or let mediocrity walk the runway with puffed arms and highly raised shoulders.
Modelling is beyond bodybuilding, looks and poise.There is an art to it, and there has to be a system that guides interested people through this art, and gives them the opportunity to explore their gifts within the industry.The need for us to reposition the industry from being an extension of the beauty and fitness niche to taking our place as the system that understands and communicates the message, style and culture of brands in a way that the target audience gets to feel, adore and engage such brands.We must go beyond the distraction of social media to building this system that African and global brands can rely on to represent and their brand message to their target market.I believe that this would be a fair starting point.
Q.Its holiday did you spending your holiday especially during Christmas .A .Oh I spent the Christmas Day in Accra, more like a little vacation, but I’ll be spending the new year in Nigeria, not with my family though. It’s the first Christmas I’m spending far away from home. This year has been a whole lot, so I’m spending time reminiscing on how the year went, how far I’ve come and what I need to do to be better. It’s a really refreshing time for me
Q.List 5 of your favourite Jams that you sang last year,on the 31st of December?A.See what the Lord has done – Nathaniel Bassey ,Most High God – Tye Tribbett,This is a Move – Tasha Cobbs,Lift me up – Rihanna,Soso – Omah Lay
The name Kelvin Mandibatsira who is commonly preferably known by his peers as Kelvin Apple Papi, was among the models who trended this year.
Kelvin is a prominent model who works along with brands that include:Jan Jam and Jet as a commercial model. In an interaction with him,Kelvin said working with such popularly brands has contributed into his popularity.When others were buying likes and followers for their social media accounts,Kevin explained that being who he is has been a winning factor in having more followers this year.
“It doesn’t matter whether I am in a shoot or I am hanging out with my fellow friend’s keeping it smart has always been part of my life .
“I will never by likes and followers to gain numbers on my social media platform,I am who I am and it won’t change people follow me most because they are inspired.More followers is a sign that I am doing well,”he said.
He further said 2022 was his year,as he won an award which was a recognition of his work and he managed to catwalk for international designer Ishmael Tsakatsa.
Kelvin said through the support from the public,his family and friends.He knows 2023 he will continue climbing the ladder to his success.
“All praises go to God.I want to thank the public, friends,family, Cynthia Bizure and all companies I have worked with this year,”he praised.
To him modelling is not about getting paid for a well done job.However modelling is part of his life,hence whenever he is in front of the camera either catwalking at a ramp or when in the photogenic shoot. John Paul does it wholeheartedly.John Paul is a Mpumalanga model,we talk to him about
Q.Define who John Paul is ?A.Paul is a humble and shy person (lol),which makes people think I’m full of myself of which I’m not.I Was born and raised in a rural area called Please in 1994- 10 -19 in South Africa
Q.What were the push and pull factors that contributed to your establishing your modelling career?A.Its a humourious story, actually I had a crush on this girl for so long but was afraid of approaching her but I got a chance to talk to her on Facebook but I had nothing to say to her so I sent her my explicit pictures,hoping I will get a chance to impress her but instead I got more than just that as after sending her the pictures. She asked if I’m a model I said no and she said I should be one and she connected me with someone who is well known in the industry. That is when my journey began.
QModelling has been misdefined by many people,what are some of the things that are not true about modelling that people in your area believe that they are:A. It’s funny how people think modeling is about being naked of which its not true.Every one that get’s in modeling they get to choose what type of modeling they want to be part of.Hence everyone has to understand modeling is not about nudity.Another lie is the thought that the models sleeps together and we are untrustworthy and not loyal.
Q. What do you love about the modelling industry?A.What I love about the industry is that it is where I get to be the best version of my self and be able to meet a lot of inspirational people, the fact that you getting paid for doing what you love and enjoy and when doing it, it doesn’t feel like work
Q. Do you believe models are recognized through their talents or looks?A.Well I would say both, depending on what the client wants. For example when there is a photo that a client want, they would go for looks and when is for fashion show then they would go for talent so for you to be on a safe side you need to try to have all.And bear in mind that there is no ugly person its just a personal preference.
Q.Speaking about looks, why is working out important to you as a model?A.working out increases your chances as a model to get gigs so the fitter you are the more gigs you will get and it helps you boost your confidence and modelling Is about confidence.
Q.This year what are some of your highlights in your career?A.ohhh they are a lot but if I would to choose ,only two I would say taking part in Africa Month Fashion show and Mpumalanga Fashion Week .As I had to create a lot of connections that will help me level up on my career next year.Including catwalking for International designers such as Blessing From Zimbabwe Afrophoenix brand.
Q. Between the two which one would you select,London Fashion Week or Qatar Fashion Show?A: I would go with the London fashion Week because it has been always been my favorite and it is well known worldwide.In London there are many shows that I can handle.I would go with the London fashion week because it has been always my dream to go in London and fashion is big there so chances of me to be known worldwide are alot and would get more gigs than I can handle
Q. Lastly what are you hope for year 2023 in the modelling sector?A.well is to get more shows and gig every weekend as modeling is my career not a hobby and to help connect ever kid that has the same dream as mine …and most important I want to form or create an agency for teens.….
Fashion brand A Tribe Called Zimbabwe won the Outstanding Designer of the year at the just ended Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards,which were held on the 24th of December. This became an early Christmas Gift to Makhosazana Ncube aka Zana Kay and her team.
It’s holiday season,we received an invitation from Mister Africa International South Africa. As he gives us an insight of how he will be celebrating his holiday. We also get to
MR SA INTERNATIONAL OPENS HIS OWN FOUNDATION
Q:What does the term Christmas means to you ? A:Christmas is a time of family and reflection. While some cant be with family, one should spend the time being in gratitude to still be in this season. Its a time to be happy and live in wholesome.
Q: Traditionally how have you been celebrating Christmas ? A:My Christmas is different this year, I am spending it in Johannesburg instead of home which is in Kwa Zulu Natal. My reason behind this is because of my Foundation which is working at providing meals and assistance to the less fortunate over this festive season. It is a campaign called ‘Thusile’ which mean ‘you have helped and it is named after my surname Thusi
Q:What memories come to your mind during Christmas Season ? A:The Mr Africa International was a great experience and I am glad that I did it. I am also very hopeful for the new year and many opportunities which I cannot say right to the public right now.
Q:What is your ultimate New Year Playlist ? A:Anything by Bebe Winans and I am also looking forward for the Joyous Celebration Concert on Christmas Day.
QWhat would be your ultimate Christmas dinner be can you share with us the method on how one can prepare the dish ? A:This year I am making Turkey and roasted vegetables. I am a huge believer in being in the kitchen during Xmas.
Q: Tell is about your Foundation and the plans you have so far ? A:After Mr Africa, I received an overwhelming response from youth in my country. I answered almost all of my emails and I realised that I needed to open an organization. My Foundation is here and ready to start working with young models, artists and athletes. My goal is for my organization to have both local and international clients and this is possible.
Q:You will be spending time with your community can you tell us how you will spend time with your community ? A:I will be spending time with the Jeppestown Community in Johannesburg and then move to Durban on the 28th Dec. I am also working on gender awareness campaign with International Artist, Zanele Muholi
Q:2022 is coming at the end of the year, what are some of your greatest achievements you made this year ? A:My greatest achievement is emotional intelligence. I learnt this year that its okay if things don’t go your way but the way you react to situations is important. React to all situations with an openness, with love, with positive energy.
Q:What are your 2023 goals ? A:To represent my country in the World Championships, to empower my team and my Foundation Students more. I would love to also create more art work as well as do more traveling.
Q:Which Christmas movie can you suggest one to watch ? A:How to ruin Christmas Season 2 on Netflix. I am a huge supporter of local productions making it on the big platforms like Netflix and still have great quality. Must watch!
Q:2022 will be over what has been the biggest challenge that you faced and how did you overcame it ? A:My biggest challenge was allowing people in my life and didn’t realise that some people are there to steal your energy and this is not right. I drew back from certain people and it was life changing. I realize it’s okay to let certain people go and always be cautious who you spend time with.
Raymond Chear from Cambodia is the reigning,Mister Glam International a title which he won last month. During the pageant he became one of the models who won numerous titles excluding the main title. Raymond Chear has also been making
Q.Can you briefly summarise your biograph?A.I am Raymond Chear, Mister Glam International Humanity 2022, a Cambodian fashion model, host and actor, who speaks 5 languages
Q.What makes Asian models to dominate pageant International modelling?A.It is the opportunity and the diversity that shade a light on Asian models to stand out for for their dreams and showcase their own talents.
Q.You recently participated, in international pageant Mister Glam International kindly share the experience? A.It was a platform to gather the outstanding delegates from different countries who are passionate in pageant and going for the same goal. It was a competition, but it was also an optimum occasion where we shared our cultures, lifestyles, stories that the others may not have the opportunity to experience.
Q.During the competition you won a number of titles is there a title you didnt manage to scope that you wanted to win?A.Definitely, I wanted to receive The Best National Costume Award as I had spent 4 months creating it by my own hands using all kinds of recycled paper I could find. It’s the costume depicting Garuda, the God of Bird with big wings, a symbol of courage, power and breaking limits. I insisted on making it by my own to break the stereotype that we, the actors, the stars, just wait to be served with the readily made or the sparkling covers. Creating such a big costume was a great challenge, but then I realized that bringing it there, getting it shown on stage and packing it home are all challenges, but of course, I did it and felt worthy when there are a lot of people started to appreciate recycled creation.
Q.Why was it the greatest achievement for you and your country to win this pageant ?A.It has been always my dream to show the uniqueness of myself and my country to the world, to reach out to more opportunities to convey some certain messages.
Q.You are also a education activist, why is education important especially for our generation?A. I advocate for education as it the foundation of lifestyle, of civilization and our future. It determines the quality of life, thoughts and acts.
Q.You recently shoot a picture with CIM and it has been trending, can you tell us the concept behind the story? A.The latest shoot with CIM is I call ‘Saving the Sea, Saving Me!’,I use this eye catching concept to raise awareness about environmental pollution that has been killing many species, which can lead to extinction, just like the inference of a merman who is living in mythology only.
Q.How do you manage to copy with your work as a model, actor ?A.A lot of people know that I have been working as a professional and volunteer language teacher, an academic head, and leasing manager of a well known shopping mall here in my country. I decided to quit and pick up my dream job again, and yes, it’s here, who I am now. I believe that our resistance and commitment will lead us to whatever we want. I am the reference that anyone can pursue his or her own dreams.
Q.What has been the most challenging part in Colombia? A.The lack of opportunities is the most challenging part. Thus, I have to find out and look deeply into the subject of ‘who’ I am, ‘what’ I am passionate to do and ‘how’ to do. There are many people can’t even make their first step and still keep it as a ‘dream’ or even just an ‘imagination’. I believe that everyone can shine on his or her own stage, but of course, it won’t be easy.
Q.Given an opportunity to a director, producer in an upcoming film which one will it be and why?A. It will definitely be psychology, depression, social behavior and mental health of all age. I spent many year fighting depression. I felt the pain, the fear and the uncertainty. I can’t see the point why mental and psychological health can’t be treated and paid attention as lightly as other diseases. There are still millions people facing this life challenge everyday and get more pressures with unwanted judgments and tags.
WORLD OF FASHION & MODELLING 