Emeka Okakpu

Emeka Okakpu

Sunday, 20 June 2010 Fashions Finest Reporter
Place of birth: London

Height: 6'7"

Educational background: BSc Honours Pharmaceutical Science

Country of origin or parents' origin: Nigeria

How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as hardworking, reliable, easy going, enthusiastic, good listener and always willing to learn new skills

Why did you choose to become a model and how did you get into modelling?
I chose to become a model because I have always been interested in fashion and all that it has to offer. Been able to start off as a blank canvass and then see the final product transpire into an art piece. I also enjoy being in front of the camera and meeting new people from all walks as a by-product of working different shows etc.

I got into modelling by applying for a modelling job which I saw advertised. I have always wanted to model but thought you had to have experience in order to work as a model but then I applied for this particular job and got it and have been modelling since then.

For how long have you been modelling?
I have been modelling professionally for 3years now

What type of modelling do you like doing and why?
High Fashion, Editorial, Runway, Sports/Fitness, Catalogue.

How does it feel to be a model, describe the good, the bad and the ugly side of modelling?
The good side of modelling is that you get to perform in front of an audience of fashion experts, work with amazing talents in the industry in terms of photographers, fellow models, designers and stylist and the opportunity to travel to some great locations.

The bad side to modelling is not knowing when your next job is going to be. There are busy periods and very quiet ones and time like this make you cherish the periods when you're working in the field and also remember to enjoy it.

The ugly side of modelling is the competitive side of it. You would have instances where everyone is going for the same job, sometimes your competing with people that you know and after a casting you come feeling quite victorious because you did all you could do to secure that job and good great feedback from the casting director only to be told your not what their looking for.
But it prepares you for the industry you're walking into and means that you wouldn't necessarily get the every job you cast for.

Which models inspire you in the modelling world and why?
The model that inspires me in the modelling world is Tyson Beckford. This is because Tyson has shown you can have longevity in the industry if the right decisions are made. He has worked and still works as a fashion model, fitness/sports model, he is currently hosting a modelling show "Make me a Supermodel", appeared in several musical videos and his credential sheet seems endless.
His dedication to his art and passion has paid off and he would leave a legacy which could only be interpreted as perseverance pays off.

What has been your worst casting to date and why?
I've been fortunate that I haven't had a bad casting to date.

What has been your best modelling job/s to date and why?
My best modelling job to date is competing in the Top Model of Colour 2009 which I came 2nd. The reason why it is my best job to date was because I got to travel to Gambia, known as "the smiling coast of Africa". I had the opportunity to meet the president of Gambia, appeared on a well known chat show, and got to visit some interesting and beautiful sites in Gambia. I was looked after and treated like a welcomed guest and it was an amazing experience that wouldn't be forgotten anytime soon.

What would you like to achieve as a model?
My achievement as a model would be to become known in the field for what I have brought to mainstream modelling, in terms of giving other people of colour hope, motivation and aspiration to pursue their dreams regardless of being a minority in a competitive world. To be able to achieve all goals I set myself within the modelling field and show it could be done if you have the passion for it.

To inspire designers and photographers opening up the avenue of constant work flow and to grow significantly both in knowledge and my experience within the industry.

Any advice to those aspiring to become models?

My advice to aspiring models is always listen to feedback given by experts and apply it within your trade in order to get ahead. Be aware of your strengths, what your good at and create a niche within that area but also work on your weakness and turn that into a positive which could only help you grow as a model.

Any interests in acting? If so, what type of roles attract you?
I have thought about the idea of acting because modelling is acting in its own unique format. As a model I'm able to bring the Designer's dream to print and this would be a great opportunity and exciting challenge to transfer such a skill by interpreting the Directors work to the big screen via myself.

I would be interested in the various genres ranging from thriller, to horror to the ever challenging action movie. Again, engaging in some of the emotions from the modelling world and using that to tell a story as an actor.

Any other information you'd like to share with our readers?
I am a keen writer and enjoy writing poems and short stories. I am a qualified Gym Instructor and part qualified Personal Trainer. I enjoy travelling and meeting new people from different walks of life and exposed to new opportunities.

How can someone book you?
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