Mr ideal Nigeria is rated as one of the most empowering male pageants in Nigeria.It has uplifted every model who has stepped in it’s doors, to reach their dreams.Part of those dreams is taking part in Mister Africa International ;getting involved in building a healthy environment for their communities by conducting charity work;catwalking in one of the top fashion events in Africa and not forgetting touring.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 about his reign

.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.

Meet Mister Zimbabwe’s 2022 Prince Ray Bamala.We talk about his journey as a model, vendor and a musician.He narrates also about his vision as a multi talented artists. Among the topics that we discussed include his vision about the modeling sector and also what it means in being a pageant model . Check out his story.

Q:To the public who don’t know who you are ,can you summarize yourself to them?
A:I am Ray Bamala ,a Christian and a multi talented artist from Gweru however currently I reside in Harare.In addition I am a child activist and an activist for the disable above all I am a vendor (being a vendor is my life and my living ).

Q:Before you stepped in Zimbabwe’s modeling sector ,What was the picture of your future ?
A:I saw a bright future of myself in the modeling industry.
Growing up in a Christian background and believing in myself and in God gave me assurance that I have abright future as I was working hard.

Q:Who advised you to venture into the modeling sector?
A:My family and friends they gave me heads up to take part in the modeling industry of which I thank them for the support and all.

Q:You never hidden your talent with your background as you stepped in Mister Zimbabwe .
A:I am an artist ,I believe in myself taking part at the pageant was self motivation .I find courage in myself also I am a Christian I don’t believe in limiatations.I can achieve what is in my mind !.

Q:As the Prince ambassador what message do you have to those who want to take part in the pageant but fear that their background will be used by judges to eliminate them?
A:When I stepped into the competition for Mister Zim,Ma’am Rose and Ma’am Mercy they welcomed me with open arms. Despite who I am they nurtured and motivated me .
Modeling is not about background or even catwalking at the ramp modeling is about being a Humanitarian .

Q:Ray in terms of accademics you got graduated last year congratulations ,can you tell us more about your studies?
A:Thank you very much , I graduated from Hons degree in Music business , Musicology and Technology.

Q:How did you manage to overcome obstacles you face in your business them all?
A: Positivity and focusing on the goals and not at the obstacles and concentrating on making profit ,that was my goal.

Q:To the government what advise would you give to the Ministries of Youth and Smes?
A:To the government’s respective ministries as young enterprenuer we need financial support to start business and if the government introduces a policy of financial education from primary it will be easy for people to know more about finance and budget .
Laslty the government needs to support sole traders by providing loans to all .

Q:What is next step for Ray ?
A:What I can say is God knows where I am going as I am a clay in the Potter’s hand .I believe my future is bright and I will use my talent to inspire and change the society and the world.

Mr ideal Nigeria is rated as one of the most empowering male pageants in Nigeria.It has uplifted every model who has stepped in it’s doors, to reach their dreams.Part of those dreams is taking part in Mister Africa International ;getting involved in building a healthy environment for their communities by conducting charity work;catwalking in one of the top fashion events in Africa and not forgetting touring.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 about his reign

.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.

Name:Tsebo Phasha
Nickname:Admin
Age:30 years

Country:South Africa

Agency :Freelance Model

Type of Modeling :Runaway&Fashion Model

Shows or Events
A lot of fashion shows in South Africa
2016 Swaziland
2017 Mozambique
2018 Mozambique
2019 Botswana

Titles/Awards :“Best Male Model 2018”at GAMA Awards

Inspire youth by :being old 40s male model..with good looking health wise.doing more of what i’ve done and traveling the world through modeling.number one fan of fashion,what i can say to upcoming models is that they should attend/participate in any show even if it doesn’t look big because you will never know who is watching…i started very small but today am being called international model

Favourite Food :Meat and Salads

Name:Tsebo Phasha
Nickname:Admin
Age:30 years

Country:South Africa

Agency :Freelance Model

Type of Modeling :Runaway&Fashion Model

Shows or Events
A lot of fashion shows in South Africa
2016 Swaziland
2017 Mozambique
2018 Mozambique
2019 Botswana

Titles/Awards :“Best Male Model 2018”at GAMA Awards

Inspire youth by :being old 40s male model..with good looking health wise.doing more of what i’ve done and traveling the world through modeling.number one fan of fashion,what i can say to upcoming models is that they should attend/participate in any show even if it doesn’t look big because you will never know who is watching…i started very small but today am being called international model

Favourite Food :Meat and Salads

Mr ideal Nigeria is rated as one of the most empowering male pageants in Nigeria.It has uplifted every model who has stepped in it’s doors, to reach their dreams.Part of those dreams is taking part in Mister Africa International ;getting involved in building a healthy environment for their communities by conducting charity work;catwalking in one of the top fashion events in Africa and not forgetting touring.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 about his reign

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.

Gio model ,Kuphakama Ngubane whose model stage name is Cooper,has appeared in numerous adverts as a model in both online and fitness.In a conversation with him , he peels details on how it all started for him to be a commercial fitness model. In addition we learn that his not only working with other brands managed by other people but his also working in managing his own brand. Find out more about Kuphakama and his sports brands.

Hie Cooper thank you for your time ,can you introduce yourself to our readers?A:I’m Kuphakama Ngubane, age 26 and I am from the South Coast of KZN in a little quiet town called Umkomaas, aka the UK. I’m a qualified reefer technician by trade and personal trainer. I also have a few start up business like my sports brand called Coopfit Self Made and a water beverage to launch. I’m a part time model as well and I also do body building as my main hobby and other fitness activities.

Q:What Is inspired you to be part of SA’s models?
A:Modeling was never something I had dreamt of doing but more a venture that I stumbled upon after being scouted to do a shoot during a body building prep. I had then learnt that this was going to be part of my journey towards something great because I did benefit from it by the exposure I got, the people I got to meet from different backgrounds that could also contribute towards my plans and goals, networking and most of all, having a positive influence amongst many people.

Q:How would you describe your country’s modeling sector?A:As a second world country, we have come a long way and I truly believe that we have great potential to make a lot more progress as we have seen Miss Universe being from SA, our culture and music being appreciated and adopted world wide, it’s safe to say that we are the most diverse and versatile nation on this planet. There is a lot more room to grow.

Q:Can you share with us your first professional photoshoot experience as a model?A:Adaptability is one of my key attributes in persuing dreams and goals and that has helped me with my first photoshoot as a model. Sometimes getting thrown in the deep end helps develop skills a lot faster than usual. No practice or model classes done before, just sheer confidence and determination with a bit of background research on the net on how to be a good model got me started. It became something I enjoyed doing because I had a lot of fun.

Q:Any tips to those who are standing infront of the camera for the first time as modelsA:Authenticity is something that we all have and we should live by it. It’s important to know who you are in this industry and what works for you. The more you know about yourself, the better you will become at being a great model. Never try to replicate anybody else.

Q:What have you achieved since you joined the GIO model agency as a model?A: I have modeled for quite a few major companies in the clothing, construction, ramp modeling industry and TV commercials. I have also gained a great social media presence and influence that helps me to get more modeling gigs.

Q:Has your perception of modeling Industry changed over time ?A: Yes it has, as time goes you learn about the different backgrounds of modeling, the requirements for certain gigs and also you notice that every industry has a bad and good side. I therefore have chosen to stick to a certain catagory that works for me.

Q:International which brands are you aiming to work with ?A:My ultimate goal would be to grow my brand into an international name and model for it. My second option would be an underwear model for one of the exclusive brands like Georgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Versace.

Q:what is your secret of keeping yourself on shape and how many times do you work out?A:Living and maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyles comes through hard work, discipline and determination. Having a balance of enjoying yourself and also being focused keeps me going. Setting short and long temm goals keeps you on track. I have a training routine of 6 days a week and also park run on weekends while sticking to  flexible diet. 

Q:Lastly what should we expect from you in the coming years?A:Expect to see a young business man who’s been following and working hard towards achieving his goals and creating a lifestyle that doesn’t require a a vacation

Name:Tsebo Phasha
Nickname:Admin
Age:300 years

Country:South Africa

Agency :Freelance Model

Type of Modeling :Runaway&Fashion Model

Shows or Events
A lot of fashion shows in South Africa
2016 Swaziland
2017 Mozambique
2018 Mozambique
2019 Botswana

Titles/Awards :“Best Male Model 2018”at GAMA Awards

Inspire youth by :being old 40s male model..with good looking health wise.doing more of what i’ve done and traveling the world through modeling.number one fan of fashion,what i can say to upcoming models is that they should attend/participate in any show even if it doesn’t look big because you will never know who is watching…i started very small but today am being called international model

Favourite Food :Meat and Salads

Meet Mister Zimbabwe’s 2022 Prince Ray Bamala.We talk about his journey as a model, vendor and a musician.He narrates also about his vision as a multi talented artists. Among the topics that we discussed include his vision about the modeling sector and also what it means in being a pageant model . Check out his story.

Q:To the public who don’t know who you are ,can you summarize yourself to them?
A:I am Ray Ndlela ,a Christian and a multi talented artist from Gweru however currently I reside in Harare.In addition I am a child activist and an activist for the disable above all I am a vendor (being a vendor is my life and my living ).

Q:Before you stepped in Zimbabwe’s modeling sector ,What was the picture of your future ?
A:I saw a bright future of myself in the modeling industry.
Growing up in a Christian background and believing in myself and in God gave me assurance that I have abright future as I was working hard.

Q:Who advised you to venture into the modeling sector?
A:My family and friends they gave me heads up to take part in the modeling industry of which I thank them for the support and all.

Q:You never hidden your talent with your background as you stepped in Mister Zimbabwe .
A:I am an artist ,I believe in myself taking part at the pageant was self motivation .I find courage in myself also I am a Christian I don’t believe in limiatations.I can achieve what is in my mind !.

Q:As the Prince ambassador what message do you have to those who want to take part in the pageant but fear that their background will be used by judges to eliminate them?
A:When I stepped into the competition for Mister Zim,Ma’am Rose and Ma’am Mercy they welcomed me with open arms. Despite who I am they nurtured and motivated me .
Modeling is not about background or even catwalking at the ramp modeling is about being a Humanitarian .

Q:Ray in terms of accademics you got graduated last year congratulations ,can you tell us more about your studies?
A:Thank you very much , I graduated from Hons degree in Music business , Musicology and Technology.

Q:How did you manage to overcome obstacles you face in your business them all?
A: Positivity and focusing on the goals and not at the obstacles and concentrating on making profit ,that was my goal.

Q:To the government what advise would you give to the Ministries of Youth and Smes?
A:To the government’s respective ministries as young enterprenuer we need financial support to start business and if the government introduces a policy of financial education from primary it will be easy for people to know more about finance and budget .
Laslty the government needs to support sole traders by providing loans to all .

Q:What is next step for Ray ?
A:What I can say is God knows where I am going as I am a clay in the Potter’s hand .I believe my future is bright and I will use my talent to inspire and change the society and the world.