Ugochi Latoya Igwilo is an
international model and former practicing interior designer based in Delhi,
India.
Igwilo
the model
Igwilo is fast becoming one of the most recognised
models in the Indian fashion industry, and one of the most recognizable faces
in the Nigerian community in India. She is well read, versed, young and
versatile socialite. She takes pride in her ability to communicate with
different types of people and go for the things she appreciates. Igwilo is most
defiantly a force to be reckoned with.
Six feet tall Igwilo spends her time
strutting the runways of different fashion shows in India. Her style of walking
is often described as the perfect mix of edge and sensuality. She has done
campaigns and editorials for fashion designers; she also works with
photographers to explore new depths in fashion photography.
How
it all started
Igwilo went to India to further her
education at her father’s suggestion, while studying in the university; she saw
an opportunity to model. She studied interior design and even worked for a
while with an architectural firm in New Delhi. She took interest in modeling
while in high school; friends and acquaintances had often encouraged her to
model. While studying in India, some fashion students approached her to shoot
for their fashion portfolio and that was how modelling started for her.
The
Nigerian model in India
Igwilo is known to be the first Nigerian
model to walk down one of fashion’s most celebrated platforms in India, Lakme
Fashion Week (LFW). She is said to be breaking the spell of white model
favoritism in India.
She is often commended
for her efforts in continuing to push the boundaries of modeling in India. She’s
done photo shoots and fashion shows with premier designers in India.
Life
of a model
Modeling
is not as cool and easy as she had thought or as most people believe. The life
of a model is not always glamorous. Modeling is still a business and a
profession, and just like any other profession; it requires hard work,
personal, intra-personal and professional skill.
Hobbies
and inspirations
She enjoys travelling, seeing new
sights, meeting new people, going on exciting outings and reading. She
discovered that all these are the things that inspire her the most. She plans
to model in Europe or the United States as well as Nigeria and eventually start
her own design company.
Staying
in shape
Speaking on how she stays in shape,
Igwilo stated that she does yoga. “I do yoga to stay in shape and I take a lot
of protein and fiber-based foods now, less carbs and drink a lot of water.”
Sartorial preferences
Are there sartorial preferences or inhibitions for her?
“I like things that are stylish and quirky. I am open to wearing anything that
fits well. But I wouldn’t want to wear a thong on the ramp. That would be
horrible,” she adds (laughing)
Advice for aspiring models
Pretty Igwilo advised aspiring models to,
“Be realistic about their expectations and choices. Avoid being desperate
because when you are desperate, it shows as such, people will take undue
advantage of you. People should believe in themselves and allow their inner
voice guide them. Rejection is a part of success. Take it in the right spirit. Use
it as a learning tool; don't let it affect who you are.”
She also advised people in
general to always
live in the moment. Make the most of their time today. Don't give in to
depression or self pity. Improve their skills and try to be better than what
they were yesterday.
Connect with her on Facebook; ugochi
Latoya igwilo , instagram;
model_ugochiigwilo twitter;
@IgwiloUgochi
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