Dabota came under public scrutiny when it was alleged that she had a nose job and a liposuction done just to fit into the modelling industry abroad. This outcry did not stop the ex-Queen in her tracks, as she went ahead to feature in some movies in Nollywood after she returned to the country.
She told Sunday Sun in this interview that Nigerians should embrace the fact that changing looks is inevitable in the entertainment industry and there is nothing wrong in getting a liposuction.
Excerpts:
How do you feel about winning the Miss Nigeria United Kingdom pageant in 2010?
It was a great feeling and a really special moment in my life. It’s an achievement I’ll always fondly remember. It made me feel special.
What has changed about you since then?
Apart from getting older and looking younger, a lot has changed especially since I moved back to Nigeria. But they remain good things and some challenging aspects of adjusting back home. It has been great. My efforts are being rewarded and I enjoy support from people around.
Are you enjoying the spotlight or you prefer your privacy?
Every career has its ups and downs, but I love what I do. I am enjoying being in the spotlight,because that is what my job entails. I can’t hide from the spotlight even if I wanted to.
When did your journey into modelling begin?
I started modelling at the age of 5. My mum put me through several competitions and pageants from a very tender age. From then, I improved on my skills as a model and have made a name for myself in the process too.
What challenges did you face as a model abroad?
Over there, weight issues are just in your face as a model. It’s never enough, you have to be a size zero and all the drama that comes with it can be tiring, but I scaled them all. Also, because I was in school as well, it was often difficult to balance both. My parents sent me abroad to study, I must make them proud but at the same time, I must follow my heart and build my career in modelling as well. It was very challenging. Since my education was a priority, I made sure I did very well.
What misconceptions do people have about you and your figure?
People should just get used to the fact that I am part of the entertainment industry and changing the way I look was inevitable for various jobs especially in Nollywood. I am dedicated to my career. Instead of constantly trying to pick on me, I expect that they would appreciate the extra effort I am putting into what I do. That’s how it is done in Hollywood. There is no big deal about getting a nose job or a liposuction for that matter.
How well do you handle criticisms?
Sometimes, I check reviews on my work and take a thing or two into consideration from public opinion. I don’t pay attention to stories about my personal life. This is because I do what I like and I like what I do. Nobody has the right to tell me how to live my life.
What have you been up to lately?
I have been so busy on movie sets and lots of photo shoots for magazines. I am also working on big projects with some of my colleagues.
What projects did you do during your tenure?
I worked closely with the Natasha Ojie Foundation in the pursuit of creating awareness for cancer and helped women learn about battling cancer with early detection.
What do you think about Nigerian models and modelling industry?
Modelling in Nigeria is still growing and would only get bigger and better with time. I am positive about the modelling industry in Nigeria. Nigerian models are among the most beautiful and talented models in the world.
Do you have any regrets?
No regrets at all. Like one of my fashion icons would say, never a failure, always a lesson. Life is a lesson in disguise. We learn from every experience no matter how bad.
Since you returned from the UK, how has it been?
Initially , it was challenging, but I am now used to how things work here. Besides, I have the most amazing family who love and support me all the way. I have learnt from my experiences since I came back home.
How would you describe your style?
For me, style is a form of expression. The way you dress is the way people will address you. I love being classy, but I’m not trendy. I am almost six feet tall, so I always dress to fit my body with clothes and accessories that I am comfortable in. I know ladies wear heels a lot but I just wear my pumps. My style is classy, sexy and glamorous.
What else can you tell us about yourself?
I am a typical Gemini and very unpredictable.
Tell us about your background?
I am from Rivers State. I attended Vivian Fowler Memorial College, Lagos before moving on to England for my first and postgraduate degrees. I studied financial economics at the University of Leicester and did a chartered management and accountancy course at the London School of Business and Finance. I contested and won the Miss Nigeria UK pageant after my university education.
source: sunnewsonline.com
