PAINTING A POSITIVE IMAGE ABOUT HIS RACE THROUGH MODELLING

Painting a positive picture about one’s colour,it’s the one of the main goals that Zithelo Mguni a Bulawayo Polytechnic 2nd Year student, in Electrical Power Engineering. Is planning to do through his modelling career. We meet Zithelo Mguni a young commercial model, who reveals to us the reason why he is into the modelling industry . We also learn more about the talented and educated Mguni.

TR:Several modelling agency are mushrooming from across the country, why CFM became your home why?

ZM:I have always dreamed of being a top model in this country and beyond because I want to use the modelling space I am offered as an authentic voice that represents the narrative of Black people outside the toxic, stereotypical and deceitful story that has been repeatedly potrayed. I came to the decision that my dream of fulfilling this motive could well be achieved with CFM because you have given me the spotlight we all need to advocate for change in this nation and beyond.

TR.Since you joined the CFM ,what have you learnt about the modelling industry in and outside the country?

ZM:Honestly I would like to believe that modelling like any other ART industry in Zimbabwe is getting back to it’s feet. Looking at other ART forms, we specialise in advertising at most and in Bulawayo to be specific, most models get acting roles, presenting spaces and so forth. I believe it is a confidence building form of ART that in turn has helped various models turn to other forms of media and entertainment while keeping up with their modelling. Well outside the country I wouldn’t say much but definitely, there is stiff competition from designers and cologne making companies to name a few and as such these big companies use influential people to push numbers, especially soccer players, e.g Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo even though these guys have brands themselves as the face of their brands, and taking motivation from being a former soccer player, definitely I would follow in those footsteps.

TR:You are part of the commercial models in the country,do you believe our commercial modelling is reaching the international stage ?

ZM:We are gaining ground as we have seen in the past Years Zimbabwean Models representing us in these prestigious events like Miss World,Miss Inter Continental just to mention a few. I can safely say we are in the right direction and hopefully in the years to come we will be a strong hold

TR:Who in the commercial modelling do you look up to ? ZM:As a way to up my game in all spheres I look up to everyone who is working so hard to create a name for themselves and the Bulawayo Community. I love drawing my inspiration from evey prominet figures i come across,i need motivation from people from all walks of life such that I become a complete model. Examples of some models include David Gandy, David Beckham ,Zviko Motsi,Sacha M’baye and our very own Shadel Noble.

TR:Back to your home CFM ,how are they handling models who are in the commercial sector?

ZM.Because CFM is about raising stars,i feel like i fit in here because authentically i can be myself,i can speak expressly without fear of being judged or what not.CFM values are also aligned to my own beliefs hence a conducive workplace. CFM has become a home away from home. We receive world class treatment with so much professionalism. I have met people from different tribal lines with different attributes,that on its own has taught me to appreciate people for who they are not what i want them to be. Most of all the Mentors are doing all the necessary grooming to equip me in this modelling Journey. I am so eager to learn unlearn and relearn,and ready to cease every opportunity that comes my way.CFM strong.

TR:Edgar’s has been one commercial brand that most people want to work with local .Which top 5 brands are you hoping to work with

ZM:Im hoping to work with Truworths,Jet,Mzansi Boutique,JanJam and 4 May International

TR:Who is your Inspiration ?

ZM:The first person to ever inspire me to become more than what i was, was my father, he has supported me and pushed me that extra mile and always gives the best advice. However David Gandy has been a constant Role model as he has thrived in the modelling industry over the years and changed the lives of many. I have sought inspiration from other sources, started reading a lot of self help books in various disciplines to better understand how things and people work, books on leadership, such as Execution by Larry Bossidy and Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman. The Psychology of Money - Morgan Housel and Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. I’d say that i try to be inspired by anything that adds value to who i am.

TR: Besides being a model what else do you do ?

ZM:I am a student currently studying Electrical Power Engineering and employed at FMC Finance .Good interpersonal and social skills help me to succeed where those qualified for the Job do not.

TR:Given a chance to occupy the runway which designer would u like to work with ?

ZM:I would love to work with 4 May International

Rubaya Tapiwa

Tusso