Modelland: The Business of being Hafiq Mystery

The modelling industry in Uganda is a developing one and talking about fashion would be an understatement if the models are left out. These are the people whose bodies sell the clothes the designers make. We’ve designed this new feature Modelland to talk everything models in Uganda.

The first model we are featuring here is Hafiq Mystery. Hafiq is the handsome young man whose toned body graced the Nile Special pool tournament ad campaign. He is also the dapper business man gracing the SMILE COMMUNICATION ads allover the city. He had a chat with us on what makes a good model, his big break and how he manages the business of being Hafiq Mystery.

So Hafiq Mystery? Why Mystery?

Yes Mystery!! I never reveal why I call myself Mystery. This has always been my answer to that question, “Let the mystery things remain a mystery”. But maybe I’ll tell you when the right time comes

How long have you been modelling?

It is now 5yrs. I started way back in 2009.

How easy was it for you to break through?

I’m not gonna lie to u. It was so easy for me. Yeah I was spotted by a guy called Jay Sewa who runs a modelling agency called “Eloquent Models” and introduced to the industry. I was later selected to do the Forever Love fashion show after a rigorous casting that had 50 experienced models. This was Sylvia Owori’s Anniversary fashion show last year. It was my first gig and runway show that welcomed me to the mainstream Ugandan modelling Industry. Just like that….

Hafiq walking for Sylvia Owori

Really..?? Forever love was last year. Was this your first gig?

Yes that was my first major runway gig.

Had you done any work between 2009 when you were discovered to 2011?

I was working with a good friend of mine called Tween. He has a print t shirt label called “Knwless Wear’. I used to model his t-shirts but it was a small project which amounted to no payment.

I know him Tween. He’s a very talented guy. Do you still work with him now that you are flying high?

Yes I still do work for him. He’s a good friend of mine and his brand is growing too.

Tween makes the Ki Eki GAANYE Tshirts

So what do you think made you make it through Sylvia Owori’s rigorous casting ?

It was Confidence, my height, my toned body and I was also told by the casting team that I had the look they wanted.

How did you feel about this considering the fact that you had no experience?

Who wouldn’t want to walk for the biggest name in the industry? Sylvia Owori is the biggest name in Uganda. We both know that. I was super excited and did my best when I got to the runway. It is an experience that opened doors for me. So what gigs have u done since Forever Love?

I walked for Xenson‘s “Uganda at 50yrs” and I always do Sylvia Owori’s “Late Night Shopping“

Walking for Xenson

Last year I was the face of the Nile Special pool tournament

I did the Warid land title and this year I’m the face of Smile communications.

I’ve done the billboards and print ads of Nile Special Uganda Cranes Soccer fans

This is some great work for one year. Do you think all this has happened because of Sylvia Owori’s gig?

No. Some of the guys I walked with on the “Forever Love‘ show have not been seen again in any commercial ads or billboards around. So what you see there is my hard work and determination.

How easy is it being a model in Uganda?

Its not easy because you have to be confident, social, maintain your body shape all the time, focused and determined. It is not easy to keep up in Uganda since things do not move fast. You really have to be patient.

How do the deals come in?

I have an agent who brings in the gigs. That is the other issue. Many models aren’t attached to agencies which is tricky on their part.

Is it true that there are agencies in Uganda that rip off models?

I’m not sure about that because I would be telling you about it. I doubt it even ever happens.

I’ve always wanted to ask. How is the income in the industry? (I too want to do some modelling in my other life)

It really depends on your the terms and conditions you have with your client. Experience also adds a lot. The pay is good however and is getting better with time.

I’ve heard that you have a side job? What do you do in your other life?

I’m a banker.

How do you balance these two demanding careers?

Its not easy first of all. I have to be careful enough not to mess up any of them. I manage my time and also my PR.

What is the future of the industry in Uganda?

With many upcoming designers and fresh models on board, I must say the future of the modelling industry in Uganda is so bright and promising. We should only embrace professionalism.

What is your message to young models?

Focus, determination and confidence. This is all you need to make it.