Interview first appeared on Y-Not Culture’s 10th Edition

If she is not in the classroom acing her grades, she is on a ramp, working on achieving her dream of becoming the ‘it girl of the modelling industry.

Being a vibrant 12-year-old girl, how do you handle being a model on the one hand and trying to be a normal teenager on the other hand? 

I actually love modelling, so I guess it is a part of me. Even though I am a model, I still stay true to who I am. I still maintain all my friendships; I am still a young girl, and I enjoy spending time with my friends.

How do you keep up with the pressure of being well known amongst your peers?

I pretend that I’m not well known. (Laughs.) I don’t allow it to go to my head. I think that helps me maintain my friendships, but a lot of my friends Google me and show interest in what I do. I have come to realise that I have to always set a good example because I’m a role model to many.

What made you pursue modelling? Where does the interest come from?

My mom says I loved modelling from a young age, and I loved taking pictures and dressing up. I remember nagging her to take me to a pageant one day; she did, and I guess that was it. I didn’t win, but I loved the feeling of everyone watching me and also the fact that I got to wear heels, which I wasn’t allowed to do.

What matters most in your life right now, not only as a model but as a young girl?

 I am raised in a Christian home, and my family always teaches me to put God first and everything else will fall into place. So what matters most now in my life, is doing well in everything I do, like my school work, my sport, and my modelling, and still enjoy life as a little girl.

Unlike most 12 year old girls who only dream of being on stage, you’re experiencing it in your life; how does it make you feel?

It’s totally awesome! The thrill of being on stage is just exciting, and sometimes nerve wrecking but once I’m on the stage time stands still. I love looking good, walking with confidence and achieving my goals. There is nothing more wonderful than knowing that I have achieved what I set out to do.

Do you see yourself being a model for many years to come?

Yes, but not just a model. I want to have a Law Degree as well, be an actress / presenter and also be a mogul.

 What would you like your peers to learn from you? 

 I would like them to learn that you can become anything you want to if you set your mind to it. I never thought I would one day do all these interviews but here I am. It started with one simple competition. “Don’t despise the days of small beginnings”.

What has modelling taught you? And where do your other interests lie?

Modelling has taught me to be confident, I can stand up in front of my class and do a speech. I can speak in front of a church with a 100 members and not feel terrified.  I can communicate with people on all levels. It has also taught me that hard work pays off, and that if I don’t win a competition it’s all right. Besides modelling, I love playing sport like netball and tennis. I also love meeting new people. I play the guitar, and I love going out and spending time with friends and family.