TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

My name is Ajayi Irene Dolapo. I am a student of the University of Lagos; model, makeup artist, stylist and an urban planner in the making.

WHAT KINDA MODELING DO YOU DO & WHAT DROVE YOU INTO DISCOVERING YOUR KIND OF CRAFT?

I am an all-rounder model. I have a passion for representing brands and selling the products the best way I can.

DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR, IF SO WHO?

Well, I have mostly role models like, Naomi Campbell and Mayowa Nicholas.

TELL US ONE THING WE WOULDNT KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Haha, well I am extremely goofy. I always make funny faces when I see my reflection and it doesn’t even have to be a mirror.

IN YOUR OWN WORDS DESCRIBE FASHION & WHAT INSPIRES YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?

Fashion to me is part of our everyday lives and it changes all the time with different events. Everything I see and feel is interpreted in my sense of style. Style is how I represent and combine my fashion, based on how I’m feeling at that moment.

WHAT WOULD YOU PREFER A SIMPLE OR FLAMBOYANT LOOK?

For a shoot, I’ll prefer a flamboyant look but on a regular day, I’m always simple looking.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE DESIGNER & PHOTOGRAPHER, IF SO WHO?

I don’t to be honest, because sometimes I like their designs or style of photographs, other times I don’t.

HOW DO YOU FEEL YOUR SOCIETY AFFECTS YOUR INDUSTRY?

There is a lot of corruption and biasness. Especially if you’re not in the top agencies, you may try casting for years and never get picked. It’s always a case of who knows who over here. Also Clients underestimate the importance of models. Bargaining ridiculously for our services. They need to start appreciating us.

WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF BEING A MODEL?

Well, asides seeing your face on billboards and on tv and all lol, I would say it’s the joy that comes with the knowledge that you are the one gaining more positive recognition for these brands. Models are like role models. We make everything look good!

MENTION ONE THING YOU HOPE TO IMPROVE ON IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Authenticity!