Two Former Models Share What It’s Truly Like Being a Fashion Model in Uganda

Uganda’s modeling industry has come such a long way, and it seems there’s no looking back if the beaming talent we have is anything to go by. With the likes of Aamito Lagum who won Africa’s Next Top Model in 2013 and now signed to DNA New York, Patricia Akello, Paul Mwesigwa, Anyon Asola who is originally from South Sudan, fresh face Aketch Joy Winnie and more, we can confidently say Uganda is on its way to ‘arrival’.

Etiang Joseph had a chat with two former models on what it’s truly like being a fashion model in Uganda. Rachael Mwagale was the ‘Queen of the runway’ in the early 2000s working with almost all the major fashion brands then. Canary Mugume who is now a reporter at NBS TV, was a fast-rising runway and commercial model who worked with Vodafone Uganda, Ambition Mission and more before he moved on to become a journalist.

1. What interested you to join modeling? 

Canary: I was inspired by the urge to ignite the fire inside people’s hearts while on the runway. I later got training from Paul Mwesigwa before joining Kats Modeling Agency which equipped me with the fundamentals.

Rachael: I got into modeling after participating in Miss Uganda 1997 and I did it for close to 10 years which graduated into a career as a plus-size model and yeah that’s what I was known for. I graced most of the runway shows in my time so I was the Queen of the runway at the time.

2. How would you describe your experience in the industry?

Canary: It was amazing. I always loved what I did and gave it my all. It was always exciting seeing my pictures in papers, TV and Billboards. The 2 years I spent as a working fashion model boosted my confidence immensely. I was so blessed during that time that I encountered more opportunities than challenges which rarely happens to anyone in the industry.

Rachael: It was always fun and I loved it.

3. While at it, how did you manage to keep your brand on top?

Canary: Branding is really vital. It always kept me ahead of most of the models then. I innovated unique ways of pushing brand messages alongside the jobs I was getting. This gave more an edge over other models and helped me land several commercial and runway jobs. It took time but it was worth it. I realized that a lot of scouting for fresh talent is done online, that’s why I invested time in growing my brand online.

Rachael: There was nothing really special but I think it’s because the industry was very young and it was a few of us who dared to pursue it so we got booked for every modeling show.

4. How did you get your big break?

Canary: In 2013, I was privileged to walk for Ahumuza Brian at the Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards. It was the most glamorous event of the year, and I was lucky enough to land a spot on that runway. Pictures from the event took me places. I needed not to explain myself to scouts. Pictures on the runway did that for me.

Mugume on the runway

Rachael: For me, It was just for fun and another source of income although I still cherish the memories of doing House of Kaine (Natasha House) simply because all her shows were very juicy wallet wise and oh my God I can’t forget to mention that my son, daughter and myself were selected by CNN to be on the team that did the Brand Uganda commercial. Not only was it well paying, It was also such a great opportunity for me as a model.

5. Is modeling really glamorous?

Canary: It’s glamorous because everyone aspires to be in the spotlight being watched by everyone. Representing a brand is no small feat. Also, the fact that this comes with beautiful clothes and makeup makes work quite glamorous. If asked if it’s glamorous on the inside, No!

Rachel: Not really, it’s like any other job. It has its good days and bad. But generally, fashion is glamour so that’s how it has to be depicted as the dirty linen is kept under the cuffs.

6. With a promising and great modeling career, why did you decide to quit?

Canary: Modeling wasn’t my long-term dream. I used it as a platform to get myself more opportunities. It wasn’t something I had dreamt of doing 5,10 years from when I began. My time was up, and I was bound to join journalism where my heart was and I am grateful for NBSTV which gave me the opportunity to showcase my journalism talent.

Rachael: Like I said earlier on, modeling wasn’t something I planned to do forever. It was just another available opportunity for me to make extra cash on top of the other things I did.

7. Would you encourage someone to consider a modeling career in Uganda?

Canary: Outside Uganda, yes!

Modeling is fun, modeling is cool, modeling pays well, but not here at home. There’s no regulatory authority, there are no rules. It’ll take time for models here to make it to the big stages, the success rate is so low. Apart from the efforts of a few modeling agencies that have managed to bring light to the industry, like Joram Muzira Job, Nsubuga Ronnie, and the colleagues.

Rachael: I would definitely encourage anyone interested in modeling to pursue their dream. My daughter Aaliyah is currently modeling and I encourage her all the time on top of her other passions like basketball.

Aaliyah, Mwagale’s daughter

8. Any low moments? 

Canary: There were months I was very tiny and small, I would pass the runway test but fail to find clothes that fit me. I missed out on several shows because of my size. In a very short span of time though, I had put on too much weight and couldn’t fit in clothes. Hilarious right?

Rachael: There was a time we had Santa Anzo’s show and we were walking for Clive Randall an international designer who didn’t want us to wear anything beneath his clothes. He was showcasing a nude collection.

9. Is it that female models are often exploited?

Canary: I am told it happens but, I can’t say I know anyone that has fallen victim.

Rachael: No never for me. Oh, by the way, this happens in all careers. It’s not exclusive to modeling. So, it is what it is. But the ladies are not forced. Surely! That is why I am now into mentoring young people especially the girls to expose them to these issues. This is something every female can handle with grace.

10. Do you think Ugandans are taking modeling as seriously as they should? And, your last words to aspiring models.

Canary: Ugandans are yet to take modeling seriously. I don’t think they have respect for models. But also, it’s a new trade that will take decades to be appreciated. No industry blossoms in 5 years. Rwanda has had an airline since time immemorial, but it has never made profits from it. But it still exists, operating. Stakeholders need to be patient.

To aspiring models and those already in it, I encourage them to ask themselves this “Are you sure this is the career path you want to take?” If the answer is positive, then keep going. Sacrifice everything, it takes time to make the rest of the world understand and appreciate your passion.  So, keep fighting for your dream and it will come true.

Rachael: Ugandans are gradually appreciating modeling. I guess it’s the reason we have many young people look up to the likes of Aamito. I also think the internet has helped a lot in educating and making people take modeling seriously.

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