One on one with Nick Mwaniki

(Here is an interview I did with Kenyan model Nick Mwaniki for Fashion2die4, and i just thought i should share it with my blog readers. Enjoy!)

With this interview, we get to engross ourselves in the life of one of Kenya’s leading male supermodels, 22 year old Nick Mwaniki. Yes ladies, I got you covered.

How did you get into the industry? Were you discovered or was it a choice, seeing as your mother had been a model?

To be honest, I never thought about being a model, it just happened. A friend came to me one day and asked if I was interested in doing a show and I did not hesitate. Then, I joined Strut It Afrika, East Africa’s leading Model Management Company.  They have made me who I am today, and for that I am grateful.  However, my mother, who was Miss Kenya back in the days, influenced me greatly.

 What are some of the perks of being a model?

I get to attend many social events and interact with different kinds of people. It is the best way of networking. Also, I get to travel a lot.

What’s your favorite show that you’ve done?

I loved most of the shows I have done but if I had to pick one, I would say FAFA 2012 (Festival for African Fashion and Art). The turnout was simply amazing, plus I had the privilege of sharing the runway with Kenyan supermodel Ajuma Nasenyana.

 Out of all the places your career has taken you, where was the most memorable?

I would say Ethiopia, where I travelled to for the Hub of Africa Fashion Week last year.  It was a wonderful experience. I would do it all over again.

Who are some of your favorite designers? (Both for your personal style and to work with)

John Kaveke without a doubt…his collection is simply amazing.  I would rock his designs any day. I enjoy working with him. Other local designers I like include Anna Adero and Nick Ondu of Ankara Vintage, just to mention a few.

                   

Describe your personal style? What determines how you dress on any given day?

My style is casual. A nice shirt, fitted jeans and a pair of loafers does it for me. I dress according to my mood at that particular time.

What are the three style items you can’t do without?

My aviators, my studs and my watch

What’s your fitness regime?

I hit the gym at least 3 times a week when I am not too busy. It is important to keep fit in this industry as you can be called for a job anytime, even when you least expect it.

What’s your Favorite place to shop?

I do most of my shopping when I travel to Paris every summer for the holidays. While I’m there, I mostly shop at Zara and H&M. Locally I shop at Barton’s.

Drink of choice?

Jameson with coke. Although I only drink occasionally and I know my limits.

Favorite hangout spot in Nairobi?

I hang out a lot at Mercury and Brew Bistro. I like mature crowds.

What would you want people to know about you?

I am down to earth, a bit reserved at times but that depends on the kind of crowd I am with.

You can interract with Nick on his facebook page, Nick Mwaniki