The Bold and The Beautiful by Betty kosgei (09-1578) COM349A

 The Bold and the Beautiful.

Modelling. A ‘game’ played only by the bold and the beautiful. Some of you could have at one time in your lives dreamt of being models when you grow up. Inspired by all the lights, attention and the glamour that it offers. Plus don’t forget the designer clothes and shoes, gold and diamond jewellery and the finest make up money could buy. “I remember when I was young, my small sister and I used to put on my mother’s heels or rather ‘pams’ and dress up and pretend to be models” says Stephanie Atieno. Well, unfortunately not everyone gets to live their childhood dreams but there are some lucky ones whose dreams might have come true.

‘Lights, camera, action!’ ‘Smile with your eyes’ ‘pose’. These are the words that Ian Wafula probably has ringing in his mind each time he has one of his photo shoots. You have probably seen him cat walking gracefully down the runways in Daystar University. Ian is a simple, humble, friendly and handsome, chocolate skinned, 6.2 -feet tall guy. At first sight you would never guess that he is a model.

 Ian grew up having a normal childhood. He was born to a humble family as the first born of two, attended St. Francis academy in Molo for his kindergarten, Molo academy and Carol academy for his primary level. After that he joined Gilgil Hills for his secondary education. He is currently in Daystar University, pursuing his undergraduate program in electronic media.

one of Ian's photos that was published at Nation media

All through his life modelling had never been on his’ to do list’. “I have always wanted to be a journalist- news anchor, right from a very long time ago in fact I  Knew I was going to Daystar ever since I was in primary school” says Ian.  However he got his modelling interest after participating in the Daystar university shine FM fashion extravaganza. Although he did not win the competition he enjoyed himself and found a new love in modelling.

He began by sending his photos to different media and modelling agency. In April last year, He sent his photos to nation media where he was put on hold. However early this year his efforts bore fruits when he was called by the Nation media for a photo shoot and was actually published in the nation newspaper, on May 14 in the lifestyle section. His modelling career has from there has taken a spin. He has managed to work different agencies; he has worked with versatile modelling agency and he is currently signed to sura zuri modelling agency.

He has however not forgotten his modelling roots. He still models in the Daystar based contests like the Duremo concert that was held early this month which he won. He has also been involved with aspiring models from Daystar University where he helps them make their portfolios. He has also come up with an agency of his own called Macwaf. Basically his agency deals with photography, creation of banners and posters- most of last year’s Daystar campaign posters are a credited to his agency.

Ian working his magic

Modelling and Christianity have been one of the controversial topics that are been argued out by many people. There are a lot of debates on whether a Christian can be a model, if it is morally right, and what kind of modelling can a Christian do exactly. 

“Most Christians think that modelling is sinful and it is a way of exposing your body to people” says Tabitha Gikeri.

Well, Ian being a Christian, he has faced some challenges that have had to do with his Christian faith. “I was once asked to model for Guinness advert but because of my Christian faith and values I declined the offer” says Ian.

However apart from dealing with matters that affect his faith, Ian has also been faced by various challenges in the industry. He has faced issues to do with theft, “There is this time a certain media agency took my photos without my consent and published them. I called my cousin and asked him to confront them about the issue. They later apologised for the incident.” He has also faced some other challenges like being promised by agencies that they would sign him up but they never do.

However despite all those challenges, Ian loves what he does and he keeps struggling in order to make it. He says that ‘it all about wanting the best for me’.  And indeed he does want the best in life. Ian not only models but he is involved in various things. He is a reporter and an anchor at Daystar’s shine FM, he is a photographer and he is also a member of a singing band called’ sing Africa’. Ladies, you are probably drooling by now, a guy who can models and sing too! Too bad for you ladies that boat has already sailed. He has found himself a beautiful girlfriend.

Ian’s life has had some changes ever since he came to the limelight, especially in school. People now look to him as a role model and so this means that he has to keep appearances, flow with the trend and just inspire people to want more in life. Moreover his perceptions of the world has broaden up he adds by saying that ‘ Modelling has given me more courage than i used to, lets say it was a boost to my Ego, not to the negative part but a boost to my self-esteem and a better way to view myself. ”

 Ian intends to continue with his modelling career however as a part time career. He also hopes to expand Macwaf industry to the extent that he would also be shooting music videos. 

As a parting short he encourages the aspiring models by saying, “Anyone can be a model and especially that the world is accepting all sorts of people nowadays, do not be left out, if you think you have that feeling do not hesitate, you can Google up all this agencies and try to sign up with them.”

So there you have it guys, you have been given the green light, so grab your Timberlands or your Prada shoes and walk that runway. All you need is to be bold and beautiful.