How to make it in the modelling world
Model Leena Shipwata shows that there is light at the end the tunnel, by giving tips and tricks on how one can survive as a model in Namibia - with her upcoming workshop.
Leena Shipwata, from her years of experience in the industry, can attest that one cannot solely be a model due to the slow growth rate of the industry.
She says models who want to make it out of the country need to build their portfolios with the little opportunities that are offered here which include becoming product promotional girls. These gigs, according to her, help one gain confidence, network and sharpen skills including walking and speaking in public. By learning from neighbouring South Africa on how they run their industry, Shipwata says Namibia can be successful too. The secret, according to her, is to be proactive and find solutions instead of doing nothing.
“For a country as small as ours, we aren't exactly noticed as much as we should be. We blame everything on the economy instead of looking for investors to play a role in helping to grow the sector. We need more risk-takers because isn't that what modelling and fashion is really known for?” she said.
Shipwata says the success of the industry begins at home. The model says it's unfortunate that many great models are forced to take up their skills as hobbies because many communities believe it is a taboo to pursue a career in fashion and arts. Shipwata says should the relevant ministries look into the construction of schools for creatives with the help of the private sector, positive results will emerge. The model referenced the Windhoek Fashion Week as the only platform that pays well and one where models can showcase their skills and earn something. She says support from everyone is needed to help sustain such initiatives to build the industry.
Her upcoming workshop 'Ins and outs to becoming a model' is about empowering young models. It is aimed at teaching etiquette and basic hygiene as a model. The workshop will include a photo shoot to help the models with camera and on-set comfortability.
There will also be guest speakers from the model and fashion industry for inspirational purposes.
“We have so many insecurities as models and women in general and our role will be to point these out and work on them I hope that I can encourage as many young girls as possible to follow their dreams and most importantly help and support each other grow as models,” she added.
JUNE SHIMUOSHILI
She says models who want to make it out of the country need to build their portfolios with the little opportunities that are offered here which include becoming product promotional girls. These gigs, according to her, help one gain confidence, network and sharpen skills including walking and speaking in public. By learning from neighbouring South Africa on how they run their industry, Shipwata says Namibia can be successful too. The secret, according to her, is to be proactive and find solutions instead of doing nothing.
“For a country as small as ours, we aren't exactly noticed as much as we should be. We blame everything on the economy instead of looking for investors to play a role in helping to grow the sector. We need more risk-takers because isn't that what modelling and fashion is really known for?” she said.
Shipwata says the success of the industry begins at home. The model says it's unfortunate that many great models are forced to take up their skills as hobbies because many communities believe it is a taboo to pursue a career in fashion and arts. Shipwata says should the relevant ministries look into the construction of schools for creatives with the help of the private sector, positive results will emerge. The model referenced the Windhoek Fashion Week as the only platform that pays well and one where models can showcase their skills and earn something. She says support from everyone is needed to help sustain such initiatives to build the industry.
Her upcoming workshop 'Ins and outs to becoming a model' is about empowering young models. It is aimed at teaching etiquette and basic hygiene as a model. The workshop will include a photo shoot to help the models with camera and on-set comfortability.
There will also be guest speakers from the model and fashion industry for inspirational purposes.
“We have so many insecurities as models and women in general and our role will be to point these out and work on them I hope that I can encourage as many young girls as possible to follow their dreams and most importantly help and support each other grow as models,” she added.
JUNE SHIMUOSHILI
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