By Siphesihle Dlamini
Residing in Manzini, Eswatini, a new star is born in the world of modelling – Mely Mavuso. With a petite frame and a vision that stretches beyond borders, Mely has graced runways and captivated audiences with her unique style, determination, and unwavering passion for her craft.
In a conversation, Mely delved into the inspirations that propelled her towards a career in modelling.
Eswatini Financial Times (EFT): What inspired you to pursue a career in modelling?
Mely Mavuso (MV): I was inspired by the petite body type that God gave me. I used to enjoy the Tyra Banks show ‘America’s Next Top Model’ when I was still a kid. From there, I started having dreams and visions of how I could be the next Swazi model.
Growing up, people would always tell me that I should become a model because it suits me.
EFT: Can you share a memorable experience from a photo shoot or runway show that has had a lasting impact on you?
MV: It must be a photoshoot I did with the Official Kasi Gallery. It was my first studio shoot. Those pictures did so well on social media, that they were trending.
That was new to me. I made a statement to let the people know that I’m an official model. I was further nominated for the Jumbo Festival, Iconic Model of The Year 2022.
EFT: How do you stay confident and maintain a positive body image in an industry that can be demanding and competitive?
MV: I always practise a self-positive talk and surround myself with positive people. This is because positive people can have a profound impact on your mindset, mood and overall well-being.
When it comes to maintaining a positive image, it’s not just a walk in the park as I work out to maintain my body and drink a lot of water to try and maintain the skin’s natural glow.
It is what the modeling industry demands and one can tend to feel so insecure if the needs don’t meet the expected demands.
EFT: What are some challenges you have faced as a female model, and how have you overcome them?
MV: Fear of exploitation.
These days female models are subjected to that in the name of getting good exposure and telling them how beautiful they are and empty promises of fame and fortune.
To overcome such, strong self-discipline is needed. One should bear in mind that he/she should not do anything they are not comfortable with.
I always tell myself that there is time for everything, of which God is in charge. Not to forget the social media pressure.
It’s a fact that there are many beautiful girls out there, and the competition is very high. Keeping yourself high-esteemed needs a positive mindset and reassurance.
EFT: How do you use your platform as a model to advocate for issues such as body positivity and inclusivity?
MV: Today, modelling includes every body type, while in the past you had to be strictly tall and slim. I’m a slim model, so my platform encourages all the beautiful slim girls like me to acknowledge and embrace the fact that they are beautiful the way they were created by God.
They must know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with that because society has made it a norm to make it seem like if you are not thick, then you are excluded from the list of beauty.
Whereas it is nothing like that. Everyone is beautiful no matter their body size and skin colour.
EFT: What does empowerment mean to you in the context of modelling?
MV: It means that a model can identify the challenges and conditions and has the power to the way people see you as a person through modelling.
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Typically, a model experiment visualizes, stimulates and obtains information about targets which cannot be easily observed or measured.
EFT: How do you balance personal style with the demands of the fashion industry?
MV: I refer to my style and refer to my style muses.
With all that, I observe what is trending in fashion at that time, well depending on the season, and come up with a style from that.
EFT: What are some common misconceptions people have about the modelling industry that you would like to address?
MV: Most people believe that once you are a female model, you are indecent, as you are exposed to different photographers and a lot of clients who may be corrupt.
Personally, your upbringing and self-discipline do a lot for a person. It is all in your head and acting against whatever negativity life throws at you.
Moreover, people are convinced that models are too busy to work on their education. Well, I’m more than just a pretty face. Everyone decides what they want in their lives and what will benefit them eventually.
Furthermore, people think that modelling is all glamour, and you have a consistent income while it depends.
Sometimes you are offered a gig just for exposure and in Eswatini modelling is not yet taken seriously just like overseas.
So, there is no justice when you compare it to international models. Otherwise, I believe that in the next five years, there will be a groundbreaking change in the industry.
EFT: How do you prioritize self-care and mental well-being in a high-pressure industry like modelling?
MV: When I feel like I’m breaking down mentally, I try to distance myself from social media and people just to give time to myself. I also make sure that I pray, as I believe God listens and answers.
I can testify that he healed me. I cannot forget those few people who impacted my life positively.
EFT: Can you share any advice for aspiring female models looking to break into the industry?
MV: I’d advise any female models to first decide what kind of model they want to be.
Pray about it, look out for opportunities to be noticed, exercise, use social media, activate the professional mode, and be confident and versatile.
Surround yourself with positive-minded people who will fully support your dream to break into the industry.
EFT: What has been your favourite collaboration or project as a model, and why?
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MV: My favourite project must have been when I collaborated with a huge bank (Eswatini Bank) for a billboard in the year 2022. It was amazing because they mounted it in the region where I reside, Manzini. That basically to me meant that not only my name is out there but my face too. It was a beautiful thing to witness, I was very proud of myself.
EFT: How do you approach diversity and representation within the fashion industry?
MV: The best thing I do is to maintain positivity and be true to myself.
I’m open to ideas and something different but I always refer to the model that I am and take it from there.
EFT: What do you enjoy most about the creative process of modelling, whether it’s through posing, styling, or storytelling?
MV: It must be posing. I get a lot of ‘the camera likes you even without trying’. That remark still influences me even today.
I won’t lie at times during my shoots, I even ask what poses I should do next from the photographer. But I still manage to get creative.
The results from the photoshoots are always amazing because the whole concept of taking pictures is to tell a story even without writing a caption but people should think beyond the image.
EFT: How do you navigate the portrayal of femininity and beauty standards in your work as a model?
MV: Women are always portrayed as weak and emotional.
I believe that I illustrate the fact that women are strong, go-getters. Yes, we are emotional, but we can pass through that phase and achieve with our intelligence with God on our side.
To add on, my profile proves how important it is to look good no matter the occasion. Even if you have pimples, it is okay, that doesn’t mean you should leave.
Embrace it because that is how the body reacts but drinking water makes the difference and enhances the natural beauty glow.
EFT: What are your thoughts on the evolving landscape of fashion and the increasing demand for sustainability and ethical practices?
MV: The fashion landscape is undergoing a transformative journey that not only enhances style but also addresses environmental concerns.
Therefore, this promotes a better environment where there is little waste pollution (for example designing outfits made from plastic), more jobs and a better distribution of wealth.
Furthermore, fashion is displaying one’s identity, talent, background and culture.
EFT: What are your aspirations and goals for your career as a female model in the future?
MV: I want to be the next top international model from Eswatini and work with huge brands like Victoria’s Secret and Vogue and do a collaboration project with my favourite model and inspiration, Kendall Jenner.
I wish to have my modelling agency with my name and have charity organizations to help the less fortunate.
Moreover, I want to venture into the business world and become one of the most successful businesspeople in the world.
