Meet Tanzania’s award winning model, we caught up with him and asked him about his experience as a model during the Swahili Fashion Week. He also further tells us what lessons ,African models can learn from the previous New York Fashion Week .
Q:Can ou tell out yourself?A:My name is Ahmed Lincoln Mgaza. I am 22 years old. I was born on 05/05/2000 in Tanzania in Dar es Salaam. Temeke Hospital is the last child in a family of two. I have not been able to get enough education. and I decided to get involved with fashion . 40% of my family members went through modeling and dancing
Q:What makes catwalking in Africa’s biggest fashion show, Swahili Fashion Week unique to you ?A:How you represent your unique walk on stage is the uniqueness you get during the show ..
Q:Whose designs are you hoping to catwalk for in future why?A:It’s fengchenwang ,I like his collections.
Q: Fashion shows such as New York fashion week are taking part,what do you believe fashion models in Africa can learn from these shows?A: First of all like New York Fashion Week, all models are participating there are professional which is the first step Africa can learn from there, they got amazing walk we can gain from them the energy focus and confidence .
Q:What advise can you give to models can you give to runway models in Africa?A:I would like to tell them to be naive in industry because we gain or learn from big shows .
Q:Can you state some of the designers you have worked with?A: @Neah collection, @Martin Kadinda, @Ek_an_tik, nkoyexecutive, @sukainkermaliapperel, @jonjoofashions, @haute_couture_chez_marie_kaba @6kasso
Q:Who is your style Amuse?A:@alton mason
Q:Aside from Swahili fashion Week which shows have you headlined?A:Lad in Red, Tanzania Fashion festival, Uganda Fashion show, Safari Fashion show, Zanzibar Fashion week .
Q:What are your 2022 goals?A:Am focusing to attempt the biggest shows international and to reach the steps I wished to be in , all in all I want to is to became a professional model in Africa.
Zimbabwe’s award winning model,Tatenda Njanike was among the few Zimbabwdan models who had an opportunity to catwalking at Style Icon Awards. He was dressed by Zimbabwe’s multi award winning designer ,Ishmael Tsakatsa’s brand Zargue‘sia .Tatenda provided an insight of what it means working with Zimbabwe’s number one fashion brand, Zarguesia.
Q:Can you describe for us how was the Runway show that was held at the Icon Awards ?
A:It was quite an unforgettable experience. We got to showcase extraordinary garments from the “Cisterns of Crystal Waters” Zargue’sia Haute Couture Prefall 2022 collection. Among those who attended were some of the greatest creatives and industry leading brands and it was an honor to showcase in front of an audience rich with so much talent and whose impact paved way for people like me.
Q:This is actually your first runway show in an exclusive event such as these awards . What would it mean if more shows are opened for you as models in the country ?
A:If shows of this magnitude happen more often it would not only mean more opportunities for me but also for every other model with dreams of soaring high. Opportunities to tell these stories through our artform as well as bring to life various concepts that designers imagine during the creation of their collection. If we do our job well in front of such great audiences our elevation would be eminent.
Q: From the experience that you had what lessons did you learnt about runway modeling that you will apply in the future ?
I learnt to improvise when the designer allowed room for it. And to improvise meaningfully you must refine your gift offstage continuously through constant practice. We have very little time in front of audiences to showcase a collection. And there is a lot of preparation and hard work that goes into the designing process when no one’s looking that must be honored during those few seconds on stage.
Q’Ishmael is rated as the country’s number one fashion designer ,what did it mean working along side with him and to catwalk for his brand ?
A:I was beyond excited to get that amazing opportunity. We spent the greatest part of the show backstage preparing and even in those moments I couldn’t be more grateful. I was right where I needed to be, i knew many people were waiting to see his works and the caliber of people eager to watch were quite phenomenal themselves.
Q: What words do you have for him and his brand that gave you the opportunity.
A:I would like to thank him for being such a kind and outgoing person to work with, for creating a safe working environment for all people present and for the opportunity to shine in his garments. Lastly I’d like to thank him for embodying Proverbs 18 verse 16 which says “A man’s gift (given in love) will bring him in the presence of great men.”
Grooming is one of the important important thing when it comes to every gentleman .What to wear and when , we chit chat with Zayn Jammo whose fashion wear has been on the trend .With many curious to know who Zayn Jammo is he shares with us his day to day life. He also shares some of his knowledge when it comes to fashion industry .
Q:Hie can you introduce yourself to our readers by informing them who you are ? A:My name is Zayn Jammo , fashionista and media personality.
Q:How did your career in the fashion industry arose ? A:I have a huge sense of fashion so it was always kind of an in thing for me
Q:As a brand ambassador,media personal why is grooming important to you ? A:Grooming is broad , it’s the way you walk , talk eat relate to others and so much more , it allows you to have set standards
Q:Speaking about being a brand ambassador how did you get an opportunity to be a brand ambassador for Jan Jam ? A:lts all God man , all Gods work.Jan Jam is my home and I feel welcome whenever I am there
Q:How significant is it working with such a brand ? A:It helps keep you on the map , you are always meeting the most influential people in Zimbabwe which helps in building networks and connections.
Q:If you could produce your own clothing line what will you name it and why if not what type of professional will you be in ? A:lol well to be honest I don’t see myself venturing into the clothing business , I’m more of a real estate guy lol
Q:One might wonder how do you balance your lifestyle? A:To be honest it’s no easy task , balancing school , work , the gym , relationships and other social circles , however usually when things get hard it means you are in the right path , life should not be simple or easy , relaxed sort of.
Q:What advise would you give to young male Zimbabweans in terms of grooming ?A:Well grooming helps a lot yes , but it has to be in you whatever the field be it modeling , being a tv host or sport , the way you handle yourself is an in thing just be yourself.
Q:Lastly what do you believe are the trends that will dominate in the male fashion lifestyle ?A:I’m of the view that formal wear rocks however trends come and go it’s really hard to tell lol
Zimbabwe’s award winning model,Tatenda Njanike was among the few Zimbabwdan models who had an opportunity to catwalking at Style Icon Awards. He was dressed by Zimbabwe’s multi award winning designer ,Ishmael Tsakatsa’s brand Zargue‘sia .Tatenda provided an insight of what it means working with Zimbabwe’s number one fashion brand, Zarguesia.
Q:Can you describe for us how was the Runway show that was held at the Icon Awards ?
A:It was quite an unforgettable experience. We got to showcase extraordinary garments from the “Cisterns of Crystal Waters” Zargue’sia Haute Couture Prefall 2022 collection. Among those who attended were some of the greatest creatives and industry leading brands and it was an honor to showcase in front of an audience rich with so much talent and whose impact paved way for people like me.
Q:This is actually your first runway show in an exclusive event such as these awards . What would it mean if more shows are opened for you as models in the country ?
A:If shows of this magnitude happen more often it would not only mean more opportunities for me but also for every other model with dreams of soaring high. Opportunities to tell these stories through our artform as well as bring to life various concepts that designers imagine during the creation of their collection. If we do our job well in front of such great audiences our elevation would be eminent.
Q: From the experience that you had what lessons did you learnt about runway modeling that you will apply in the future ?
I learnt to improvise when the designer allowed room for it. And to improvise meaningfully you must refine your gift offstage continuously through constant practice. We have very little time in front of audiences to showcase a collection. And there is a lot of preparation and hard work that goes into the designing process when no one’s looking that must be honored during those few seconds on stage.
Q’Ishmael is rated as the country’s number one fashion designer ,what did it mean working along side with him and to catwalk for his brand ?
A:I was beyond excited to get that amazing opportunity. We spent the greatest part of the show backstage preparing and even in those moments I couldn’t be more grateful. I was right where I needed to be, i knew many people were waiting to see his works and the caliber of people eager to watch were quite phenomenal themselves.
Q: What words do you have for him and his brand that gave you the opportunity.
A:I would like to thank him for being such a kind and outgoing person to work with, for creating a safe working environment for all people present and for the opportunity to shine in his garments. Lastly I’d like to thank him for embodying Proverbs 18 verse 16 which says “A man’s gift (given in love) will bring him in the presence of great men.”
For the first time in the history books of Africa’s modeling industry,the continent hosted it’s first-ever Mister Africa Continental pageant. Zwelethu Tekete former Mr Tshwane Regions winner was among those who contested for the throne and to become history makers. Apparently he became the history maker as he was crowned the King of the pageant and the winner of the People’s Choice category. In an exclusive interview with him, we discuss about the memories that he shared with other contestants , his favourite category during the competition and also what his plans are .
Q: Congratulations in your coronation.Can you tell us how your journey has been ?A:Thank you so much brother, It was a very tough competition the guys brought out the best in them and it was a very educational I learnt so much about the delegates countries for example their culture, food and little of their language.
Q:During the talent categorily,you performed imbongi/poem in your own home language can you share with us the story behind it?A: I just wanted to acknowledge my ancestors for the protection they have given me and the light they showed me before and during the competition and I’ve always been proud of Imbongi I really love their work especially the work of Mr Mzwakhe Mbuli.
Q:Speaking about activities,your African attire,came from the Zulu culture, how important is culture to you ?A:Funny enough ,I’m not Zulu but since we were there and I was representing my country and all the cultures within it and the Zulu culture has a very reachable history because of then King Shaka Zulu to me it is very essential that we follow and practice our culture for then we will know our origin.
Q:History has been written as you became the first ever Mister Africa Continent what does it mean to you ?A:Indeed, It really hasn’t soaked in as yet but I am very happy trust me and I am very scared at the same time,because I want only the best to come out of my reinging era and actually to leave a mark as the first Mister Africa continent.
Q:How has your own country welcomed the news?A:All people who know me have been very supportive from the start .As I won People’s choice award because of them, it has been a great time of my life even though I think if I was a female it would’ve have been more than what it is now but I’m also planning on making sure that happens.
Q:What was your greatest moment aside from the coronation moment?A:It has to be the moments where we would just sit down as delegates and share our Experience Of how we view the world and what we wish could happen in our Continent at large those were moments where I saw that we as Africans really need to be united.
Q:During your stay in Ghana what did you learn about Ghana and it’s culture?A:Wow It’s hard to explain this one because everything there was perfect the reception we got there was amazing everyone was happy to see us, the Mister Africa Continent Organisers were really good, patient and happy to host us.I have learnt a lot about their country as we visited few tourist attractions where we learnt more about the host and evolution of Ghana and their culture.
Q:what did you learnt from the other contestant?A:I have learnt so much from my brothers that a competition doesn’t always have to be a competition but it can be something you learn from.
Q:As Mister Africa Continent, what is your main mission?A:My vision is to see a disadvantage child not struggling to see a disadvantage child being able to achieve his/Her goals.
Q:Lastly which other African countries are you planning to visit? A:We haven’t yet decided on which countries were going to visit As we still on getting people to work with in executing our projects as Mister Africa Continent.
Mr ideal Nigeria is rated as one of the most empowering male pageant in Nigeria. It has uplifted every contestant that has stepped into its doors, to build a sustainable career both in entertainment and other fields of specialization. It’s core value includes empowering the youths, building a healthy community where great minds thrive. The winners have gone on to compete in Mr Africa international and other international male peagent’s, walk the runway for major brands both home and abroad and bagged endorsement deals. We had a conversation with the reigning king Anthony okechukwu.
.We had a conversation with one of the models who managed to win the title Mister Ideal Nigeria , Anthony Okechukwu .Find out what he had to say !
Q:Anthony we thank you for your time can you introduce yourself by telling us about your bio? A:Hey, thank you for having me. My name is Anthony Okechukwu and I am a Nigerian and I am Originally from Agukwu Nri in Anambra state but I stay in Abuja. I am a graduate of Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Ghana, and an award-winning model, a pageant king, a humanitarian and an entrepreneur. I am the second of two boys born to my parents. I love fashion, travelling, cooking and connecting with people
Q:This year history will be made as you will be handing over your title in March ,what does it mean to you? A:It is honestly a bitter sweet feeling but as they say all good things come to an end eventually because in as much as I enjoyed being the MR Ideal Nigeria and all the benefits that came with the title. I have to let it go for the new king to begin his journey and join my predecessors in the hall of fame. It has been a true privilege and I pray that the next king carrying on from me takes the title to higher heights .
Q:Can you share with us your experience as Mister Ideal Nigeria? A:Where do I start, being MR Ideal Nigeria has been a roller-coaster of mixed exciting emotions, it has opened so many doors to me, amplified my voice and given me a platform to grow my career and brand from what it was to what it is now. Working with the MR Ideal Team is definitely an experience I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Q:What were some of your greatest achievements as Mister Ideal Nigeria? A:I titled my project facilitating learning in the younger generation. The goal of my project is to sensitize students on the importance of consistency, self-improvement, rewarding oneself for any little achievement, being patient and kind to oneself (self-love) and others. Things I didn’t do enough of growing up and it affected my self confidence. I am on a mission to give back to my community, to be a support system to the new generation, to share my story, to motivate and remind them that they are not alone, that nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it and if I could do it, so can they. To also encourage parents and teachers to never give up on any child, to be patient and remember that every child is unique.
Q:In terms of your success through your journey,what/who contributed ? A:My family and friends both new and old played a vital role in my success and for that I am very grateful, my personality, educational background, experience in modeling and God’s grace. The truth is I came in with an open mind did my best and left the rest to God because there is so much, I can control.
Q:What lessons did you learn about modeling and your community through out the journey? A:I have been modelling for a while now and I consider it an art form. Just like any other form of art it requires a lot of practice, dedication and patience to master and you constantly need to keep evolving to remain relevant. Its really not as easy as most make it out to be Throughout my career I have learnt a lot but the lesson that always stands out is that it is not all about being the prettiest face or having the best walk. Having a good and relatable character takes you a very long way. The way you relate with people plays a very important role in deciding if they want to work with you or even be in the same space as you. This applies not just in modeling but in life as well so be respectful and thoughtful towards every one you never know what tomorrow will bring.
Q:Anthony you worked close with the House of Twitch.Can you have three words to describe house of Twitch? A:There are a lot of words to describe them but from the top of my head I would say: family, Patient and hardworking.
Q:Besides being a model ,you pursued your studies in Science and Technology university. A:Yes, I studied Electrical /Electronic Engineering in the university which wasn’t easy because I had to combine it simultaneously with traveling for gigs. However I have no regrets of any kind.
Q:One might wonder what legacy are you leaving for the next generation of Mister Ideal Nigeria ? A:When I decided that I wanted to compete I was discouraged by many, told me that I was too skinny, that I wouldn’t make it far and that male pageants where for muscular guys. However I went ahead regardless and I won. By doing this I changed a lot of narratives by becoming the first king to prove that there are more attributes that contribute to being an ideal man and a pageant king than just muscles and physical strength and opened the door to the new generation of ideal men.
Q:Lastly yes you have shared your greatest achievements ,what about your moments? A:Some of my greatest moments?! a lot has happened within the space of one year that I don’t know where to start. from honoring invitations from high-ranking officials in my state, to traveling for fashion shows, to attending movie premiers and collaborating with amazing brands .it has all been a surreal and humbling experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I am also super excited for all that is yet to come.
Multi-Award winning model ,Bernard Ndlovu prominently know as Been Chest has left his home country ,Zimbabwe and departed to Ghana where he will be contesting for Mister Africa Continental throne. Ndlovu who left the country on thr 8th of February ,informed that his main mission is to fly the country flag high and to represent every male Zimbabwean model in the race.
Ben Chest is currently one of the male models in Zimbabwe who are dominanting the fashion and modeling industry .
He is also currently leading in terms of the gongs that he has won in the previous awards and has worked with exclusive companies as their brand ambassador.
According to social media comments that have been posted by the public about the event. Ben is currently one of the favourite candidates who has majority of popularity and support.And many believe he is the winner who will be crowned on the 12th of February as the first Male Model to win the title .
For the past ten years the House of Twitch has been working hand in hand with the most anticipated make pageant in Africa and this year it’s celebrating a milestone alongside with Mister Africa International .
Countries that include Sierra Leone ,South Sudan ,Rwanda,Ghana ,Botswana,Tanzania,Angola& Nigeria have managed to produce Kings who became winners of the pageant .
Last year the event was hosted for the first time in an African French speaking country ,Ivory Coast.
Some of the previous winners are : Emmanuel Umoh from Nigeria who became part of the Big Brother Naija finalist season.Ian Word is now a Nollywood and Ghollywood actor while Tanzanian model Calisah Jisa is an enterprenuer and a millionaire. To state a few of the achievements the Kings have made.
This year’s reigning King from Angola,Eryvaldo Reigning has been touring across the Western Africa and the horn of Africa reaching out to the community .As his platform is centered around the feeding and education of children. Since his crowning in Oct, he has been to Nigeria and Ethopia and landed ambassadorial deals with many organisations including Gulkis Angola and Lior Perfumes.
The House of Twitch announced that the 10th anniversary of the pageant will be hosted in November an the host of the country will be announced on the 1st of April. Typically , the winner of the platform travels to different countries during his reign promoting his platform.
WORLD OF FASHION & MODELLING 