Elite Model Look 2014 winners talk about their fortunes (2): ‘I worked hard to get here’ -Victor Ndigwe, winner (male category)

How does it feel to have won Elite Model Look 2014 male category?

I feel very excited. My dream has actually come to life.  Words really can’t express how I feel.

When the judges called your name as the winner, what ran through your mind?

I couldn’t believe I won.  I was actually contented being in top 10 finalists.  Winning was like a huge plus to me, that was why I was so emotional that night.

You also broke down in tears, why?

I have worked hard to get to that stage and seeing my hard work materialize into success, I cried.  It was a cry of joy really.  Elite is a big platform for me.  All my hard work paid off at the end.

For how long did you dream of coming this far?

I actually waited for Elite Model Look for like two years. I wasn’t a model, my sister and Mr. Emmanuel made me develop interest in it.

What gave you the impression you could model?

When something is in you, you don’t have to struggle. It comes naturally. I just knew I could model and I have compliments around me, encouraging me to do modelling.

What were the physical attributes you have that made you feel you could model?

I will say my skin. I am black, however, I don’t know what Elite saw in me.

Going by your experience in boot camp, how would you describe your relationship with other models?

I would have to live with other models again if I had the opportunity.  The camp was fun.  We never had any cause to fight, both the crew and the chaperon were all wonderful people.

How were you able to hone your skills?

It’s hard work and I was open to learning new things, new ideas. I was a novice when I came for the Elite Model Look, I told myself if I really want to know so many things, I have to open up for learning.  I learnt, kept asking questions.  I guess that was what brought me this far.

Which was your first job on the runway?

My first day on the runway was the grand finale of Elite Model Look 2014.

What is the future like for you with modelling?

I see a brighter future. I see myself a force to reckon with in the industry.  It won’t be too far.  With God on my side, the future is really bright.

What is your plan for your cash prize?

It should come first.  I don’t know what I would do with it, but I will surely invest.  I love business personally, with time I will decide what to do with the money.

Has anything changed about you?

Just my routine.  I wake in the morning, drink water, work out, eat a lot of fruits, that is it for me.

Don’t you consider building your physique?

Right now, my physique is working for me.  It varies around the world.  Some like huge models while some other like French models.  Presently, I am not concentrating on body building, I am just 18.

How was growing up for you?

I was born and bred in Lagos around Egbeda.  I have four siblings. I am the second child and the only boy in the family.  My father is a businessman, my mother also is a businesswoman.

Why did you decide to choose Pure Mathematics in the university?

I actually wanted to study Engineering but after JAMB, I was posted to Mathematics.

What are those childhood ambitions you have always nursed?

I know how to do different things so choosing my ambition was different until the modelling career came up.

What is your favourite food and drink?

I eat anything as long as it tastes good. I love to swallow with good soup.

What about colours?

I love hot pink.

-FOLUSO SAMUEL