Pinky Ghelani Exclusive Interview-Love for Fashion, Media, and Giving Back tot the Society
By Wanjiku Thuku
Pinky Ghelani is no stranger to the showbiz and media industry, as she has stamped her foot as a living Asian Kenyan legendary model and a force to reckon with. As a young lady who fights for women’s rights and is always willing to leave a smile on people's faces, I caught up with her to know more about her love for life,media,fashion and giving back to the society like a true humanitarian:
How has motherhood changed your perspective on life?
There is more to life than egos and points to prove. Motherhood has humbled me, and I am constantly learning from my kids
What would you say has changed in the past 10 to 20 years since your hey days as a model?
In what regards? It is still me.
By this I mean u became a mum, you got married, you started your own media company, you went back to modelling and emceeing at events......you tried to keep the charity aspect and add a few more things to your work schedule and portfolio
What I believe in is evolution. I cannot be the same person I was 20 years ago, but she helped me to get where I am today. I let go of elements of myself and embrace the new parts of life that come with being a wife and mum and a caregiver to my mother... My world has changed but my purpose has not.
What changed your mind about coming back to the runway at your debut runway guest appearance at tribal chic fashion event recently? How did that make you feel as an individual after so many years?
I am made for the catwalk. I love the runway. When I am asked, I will surely be on any runway. It made me feel nostalgic... working with brands that I used to. But it was another feather in my cap as now I feel I have walked all major runways in Kenya
I heard you will also appear at the fashion high-tea runway. what does this mean to you and the KenyanAsian media, showbiz, and fashion industry?
It is always an honor to be called upon in any role to stand for my brand on stage
What motivates you daily and what is your life slogan/motto?
To be better than you were yesterday and my social media community. I have a platform for a reason, so I need to ensure it helps others.
Do you run any charity organizations or campaigns in Kenya that gives back to the society/community? Which ones are they?
Always have and always will. I work very closely as a high-profile supporter for UNHCR and work closely with Sukuma Twende trust and am an ambassador for better for Kenya
Thats great.... Have you got more accolades or endorsement deals in the past 5 years of your career as a model and media personality?
My extreme honor is being recognized for the work I do for women by being awarded by SBM bank, and the Ministry of sports to be a speaker for gender-based violence
Are you still a radio presenter on Capital Fm or where do you work now?
I have my own media and events company called PinKE media it stands for produced in Kenya. We produce shows like: What women want, Mind the gap, Crafted with love and WTF.The ethos of the company is to push women empowerment.
I have noticed that.... immensely powerful statement there. What challenges do you face as a
mother, celebrity model and media
personality?
As a mum I am always asking myself if I am doing good and am raising good kids. As a celebrity it is owning the new space of celebrity as a model it is understanding that I stand for a different demographic and not being afraid of that and as a media personality it is trying to stay relevant as a brand
How do you overcome those challenges?
I remind myself what my purpose is and what my legacy must be
Which other events have you modelled for apart from tribal chic in the past 3 years or more?
I was a showstopper for an Indian designer at women's day last year and am always on stage as a speaker
I heard that you were approached by the producers of 'real housewives of Nairobi' to be a part of the cast?
What was your reaction to this?
Yes, it is true, but this is when the cast had different people selected. My first reaction was oh how fun but then I understood that this was not an ideal fit.
Do you have your own clothing Brand, fragrance, or cosmetic line in the works?
None. I want to eventually do a yoga line because it aligns with my wellness side, and I love my yoga. I also have a book I am working on.
What is your advice to young ladies who want to venture into media,modelling and event hosting careers?
My advice is to follow your heart and your purpose but always live a life with ethics. Do not sell your soul for quick money or fame, these things can come to u with hard work and perseverance. A well-known brand has longevity and will always outlast those brands that opt for short cuts
What other business projects have you been working on?
I am currently working on what women want conference which will be a three-day conference at the end of March that will include panel discussions, breakout sessions as well as workshops. This is a huge project and am super nervous but excited about it im sure it will work out fine
Any last words or things you would like our readers to be left with to ponder on?
Last thoughts. Comfort is your enemy. Challenge yourself and do the hard things first Perfect ...thank you for your time, Pinky Ghelani. It has been a pleasure chatting with you