Nigerian models are their own worst enemy–Bunmi Ademokoya

Olubunmi Olubukola Ademokoya came into limelight when she won the maiden edition of Nigeria's Next Super Model. She went ahead to win Best Model of The World 2007 after she was chosen as first runner-up, Nigeria's next super model 2007. Arguably Nigeria's biggest modeling export based in South Africa, the tall, leggy model, who has strutted her stuff on the world's best fashion shows in London, New York and Paris in France,
told Remi Adelowo and Kehinde Falode the price she has paid to get this far

HOW does it feel to be a super model?

Well, I would not classify myself as a supermodel yet, because I believe I have not reached my ultimate goal. However, life as a top model has been fine.

If you weren't a model, what would you have been?

By now, I would have finished in the law school and started practicing as a lawyer. That ambition is still on mind, but the snag is that it will take a little longer to realise it.

Can you tell us about your career?

Modeling is a way of life in the entertainment industry where we are always trying to sell one product or the other. The work is very interesting, although like any other job, it has its own ups and downs but generally, it can be fun.

What goes on in your mind when you struts the runway?

My goal when I'm on the catwalk is to sell the idea of what the designer had in mind when the outfits were made and to also have fun while doing it.

What future do you see for Nigerian models?

I believe that Nigerian models have the potential of storming the international market and creating a new definition of what black models are but unfortunately, Nigerian models are their worst enemy. They allow themselves to be underpaid and overused.

Do you feel threatened by the new set of models coming up?

No! I believe that the market is big enough for both old and new models without anyone feeling threatened. If you know your worth and the market recognises you, you will always be relevant.

Besides modeling what else do you do?

Besides modeling, I'm in school currently pursuing a degree course.

In this age of 0 models, what is your nutrition?

Good diet is essential for not just models but for everyone. I personally eat a big portion of food, but that is because I have a fast metabolism and my body digest the food easily. I try to work out whenever I can, eat less processed products and take supplement that are essential to my general well being.

How often do you go to the gym?

Whenever I have the chance or need to tone up.

Do you practice constantly?

Well, it's like riding a bike. You never forget.

How often do you travel?

It depends on my schedule for the year.

What do you hope to accomplish in modeling?

I hope to be an international brand worldwide. Nigeria needs a model representative in the modeling industry and we have not got that since Oluchi. So, it will be great to be recognised as one.

What are your likes and dislikes?

I'm a cool person and likeable person. I love to read books, lots of them; I listen to music, go dancing and stay at home. For my dislike, I am not a fan of pretentious people.

What is the worst thing about being a model?

It's about people making false assumptions about models.

How true is the rumour that you are dating ex-Mr Nigeria, Byran Okwara

Oh really!

Do you have any favourite designer?

I am not designer crazy; I wear what I see and like and if it happens to be a designer brand, all well and good.

How do you unwind?

I read novels but when I'm not doing that, I play video games or games on my phone.

What is the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to you?

Wow, that's a tough one! Well it's about being given the opportunity to become a better person or the best I can be.

What determines what you wear?

It's my mood.

What is style to you?

Style is what your own version of fashion is.