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
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