Hakim Nkengurutse, 20
What do you enjoy about being a model?
I love the competition, the adrenalin rush during shoots and backstage, being in front of the camera and above all the attention that comes with modelling. What are your other passions besides modelling? I’m also a singer, actor, stylist and a professional Kizomba dancer. How do you stay in shape? Dancing and swimming. Where can we follow you? Facebook: Clinton Samuel Instagram: @ theclintonsamuel Website: clintonsamuel.co
Richmond Ekow Barnes, 23
Your career highlights? The first male Burundian model to feature at SA Fashion Week, SA Menswear Week and Durban Fashion Fair. It’s been a dream come true doing summer campaign for Edgars and appearing in Nike adverts, among other things. How were you discovered?
For me it was a little different. I was initially turned down by some agencies. I was persistent and didn’t give up until Models International agreed to sign me up under one condition. I had to prove I was worth taking on. I had to work hard to make sure I succeeded and now I am on billboards.
What do you enjoy about being a model? I enjoy almost everything: travelling, meeting and working with amazing people, taking photos and, of course, the pay cheque. What are your other passions besides modelling?
I’m passionate about giving back to my community in Burundi. I am what I am now because of everyone back home. How do you stay in shape?
I maintain my weight by running and do weight training at the gym. Where can we follow you? Instagram: @ hakimnkengurutse Facebook: Hakim Nkengurutse
Bryan Edward Edem
How were you discovered?
To be honest, I never thought that I could be a model although I’ve always been passionate about fashion right from when I was little. I had a friend who always encouraged me to try it out. But then I was too skinny and I didn’t know that I could work as a model. LOL! So one day, I took my mom’s clothes and went to a studio to do a shoot. After I posted pictures of the shoot on social media I was scouted on Instagram by booker Roxy Hall. Your career highlightsr? I would say I’ve been really blessed.
Modelling is a cut-throat business which requires seemingly baby-smooth skin and a flawless body. As a result, I live a healthy lifestyle. The moment I decided to be a professional model, I knew it was time to forgo the piles of doughnuts, the boxes of chocolates, fries and other junk food. I work out in the gym to stay toned. What are your other passions besides modelling?
I have always loved fashion designing and writing. I crave to be a scriptwriter. It’s something I find myself doing constantly. I also direct photo shoots and assist photographers put up mood boards during photo shoots. Where can we follow you? Instagram: @sirbryanedward What’s the biggest misconception about the male modelling industry?
That we aren’t intellectual; I myself have two degrees. What do you enjoy about being a model?
I love the lifestyle it affords me. I get to meet new and interesting people each day and learn from them all. I think that is the most important thing in life! What are your other passions besides modelling?
My other passions include, firstly, music! I have a deep love for music and an eclectic library. I play the guitar and the piano and also sing. I love books and am currently reading British author Scarlett Thomas’s The End of Mr. Y. It’s a must-read! Where can we follow you? Instagram: @brandonalastair and all other social media platforms.