When you see him walking boldly on the runway either in briefs or full outfits, you begin to wonder if truly this ebony dude is a Nigerian model or simply another Tyson Beckford. Jimi, a 28 years old, dark brown-eyed model who happens to be a graduate of Computer Science, who grew up in Lagos, had earlier been involved in modelling and acting in Nigeria but later had to move to South Africa in search of greener pastures. While in Nigeria, the attractive, black and shiny young man contested for Mr. Nigeria and came out as the 2nd runner up. He was also nominated for the ‘young model of the year award’ at the last Future Nigeria Awards; an awards event strictly designed to celebrate the achievements of young enterprising Nigerians all around the world.One thing is certain; this dude is still going places and also helping in propagating Nigerians positively all over the world.
BroadstreetNG took time out to have a chat with the young, energetic and dynamic South African based Nigerian supermodel, Owobowale Jimi Ogunlaja. Sit back, Relax and enjoy our exclusive interview
BroadstreetNG: Your Statistics…..
Jimi: Height-6.1″, waist-32, suit-40l, shirt 16, shoe-11
BroadstreetNG: Where were you discovered and who discovered you?
Jimi: I was discovered in Lagos in 2003 by a friend (Bose Efunuga) who was aware of my undying passion for modelling
BroadstreetNG: how and when did you get to South Africa?
Jimi: I got to South Africa year 2008, took two weeks off set of the famous series TINSEL and the story changed…
BroadstreetNG: why have you choose to remain in South Africa?
Jimi: I really didn’t have a choice but to embrace the opportunity I got here in South Africa. There is a lot to learn as the industry here is well endowed with agile creativity.
BroadstreetNG: Heard you are currently the most sought after model in South Africa….tell us about it
Jimi: hahaha… I like that and I thank God for every opportunity and there are strong Nigerian models here too who are really doing us proud and we all like to keep it strong, God is our strength!
BroadstreetNG: top designers you have worked with?
Jimi: 46664(Nelson mandela), Calvin Klein, True religion denim, David Tlale, Fabiani, Modela(NG) Deola Segoe(NG), Dax martin, Craig port, Carducci just to mention a few(smiles)
BroadstreetNG: high points of your modelling career? Achievements so far?
Jimi: achievements, well, I got an offer to coach models catwalk for fashion shows, I have been the first face of lots of different African icon designers and I have a wooden plaque In my house dat says “BEST MALE MODEL 07″ (winks)
BroadstreetNG: What Challenges have you faced as a top model working outside your motherland?
Jimi: The main challenge we face outside Nigeria is the fact that modelling is a very competitive profession and there are lots of models from every part of the world trying to achieve the same goal, making it compulsory for me as an individual to constantly and consistently give my best at every given opportunity.
BroadstreetNG: how have you been able to impact on other peoples lives?
Jimi: my constant showcase of fun and positive drive can be quite contagious and people find it interesting.
BroadstreetNG: Who mentors or inspires you
Jimi: ALMIGHTY GOD remains my mentor and inspiration so is positive spirit
BroadstreetNG: future ambitions…..
Jimi: to make positive and sustainable contribution to Naija entertainment through fashion and lifestyle.
BroadstreetNG: Where do you hope to find urself in like 2-3yrs
Jimi: in 2-3years, I won’t be surprised if I m a president.(laughs)
BroadstreetNG: advice to upcoming models
Jimi: i will strongly insist that we all put God first and remain hard working. Humility is also an important ingredient. Let’s stay real.
JIMI’S RUNWAY EXPLOITS
“I was shortlisted for top 40 men from the entire 215 men that entered for the Calvin Klein underwear competition across South Africa in June 2010, which was later cut down to top ten finalists. And by the special grace of God, I made it to that list. Although I didn’t emerge as the final winner, I was still signed by Calvin Klein“……..Jimi Owobo
Jimi at the Calvin Klein competition in 2010
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