If you stay in Russia, modelling is one of the many side hustles students can go into to make some money from time to time.
We interviewed Josephine, a final-year medical student and model on the intricacies of becoming a model in Russia and how to overcome some of the challenges people face in this line of work.
Join us on this interesting read as we look into the life of a part-time model and how they get it done because it sure takes more than looks and the perfect body.
1. Please tell us about yourself.
My name is Josephine Adie, but mostly known as Jozy. I am a 6th-year medical student from Nigeria. I’m also a freelance model. I book most of my gigs. I also work with various agencies, but on a non-exclusive basis.
2. Have you always wanted to be a model?
Yes, but I lost interest at some point in my life.
After secondary school in Nigeria, I applied to modelling agencies in Calabar. I actually didn’t tell my parents until after I was invited for an interview. My mum was okay with it but my dad refused.
I was ‘pained’ and after that day I didn’t think about it again. This was in 2016.
3. Why was your dad against going for the modelling gig?
He was concerned that I might be exploited due to my young age at that time.
4. When did your journey as a model officially begin?
28th February, 2021 was when I had my first official shoot. I got invited through VK for a one-hour shoot. I was inexperienced but the person guided me and the photos then went viral.
5. What are some challenges you faced as a model when you first started and even now?
I faced similar challenges when I first started and even now. Challenges such as distance (some shoots are outside Rostov where I live and I have to travel for a long period, which can be draining at times).
Some shoots are also inappropriate. The funny thing is that you don’t know the dresses you’d be wearing for some of these shoots. You only get to know when you’re at the spot and you find out that you can’t wear some of these dresses because they are either too revealing or just inappropriate.
Also, scarcity and unavailability. Sometimes you can go weeks without getting a shoot and that just comes natural with the job.
6. In those cases where the clothes you are to model are inappropriate, are you allowed to decline and does it affect your work?
I decline such shoots because it’s against my morals and I don’t care if it affects anything. Because most times before agreeing to a shoot, I tell them about this issue. Letting the company know your terms beforehand is very important.
7. Do you consider going into modelling permanently?
No, I would love to work as a doctor. Modelling is going to be a part-time job for me.
8. Are you in partnership with any agency?
Yes, I am currently under a non-exclusive contract with several agencies.
9. What would be your advice to someone who is planning on going into the modelling sector?
My first advice has always been, “Take pictures.” and I always hear “But I don’t like taking pictures!” You cannot hate taking pictures but wish to be a model. That’s literally the work of a model.
Also, you have to put yourself out there. Make use of your social media. Let people know that you’re passionate about this thing.
And be patient. Stop comparing yourself with others. Don’t give up immediately because no one is reaching out to you. Everybody’s journey is different. Just trust God and believe in yourself.
10. Do you think there are more opportunities for female models compared to their male counterparts?
There are more opportunities for female models compared to male models. But recently, I would say there’s been an increase in demand for male models.
Thank you for joining us, Josephine!
That’s it folks. Thank you for reading. For those looking to go into modelling, you now have a basic guide in the lines of these interviews. May all your hard work pay off.
