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Born for the ramp!

11/08/2013 00:00:00 BY NOMBULELEO MATSEBULA

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She is young, beautiful and has big dreams. Batef Top Models’ Nandi Mthethwa aspires to be a Psychotherapist. The Swaziland Business Consultancy Diploma in Psychotherapy student has counselling at heart

. The 21-year-old has dreams of working for organisations such as UNICEF and one day raising her own family. She loves modelling and in 10 years she hopes to still be on the ramp – part time basis though. She talks to Style about her dreams and aspirations.

Style: How did you join the modelling industry?
Nandi: I have always loved the camera and posing. People have always suggested I join modelling because of my body and looks. Eventually, I met with Top Models Director Mbali, then I joined the agency. I love modelling.

Style: Are you solely focussed on modelling?
Nandi: No, I was studying for Diploma in Psychotherapy at Swaziland Business Consultancy in Manzini. I am waiting for my results but will continue with my modelling.

Style: Who is your favourite model?
Nandi: The reigning Miss Swaziland, Ayanda Dube. She is an inspiration to me. She has a beautiful body and has the brains to match it. I really admire that.

Style: What do you feel affects the youth most these days?
Nandi: Peer pressure is such an issue these days and I believe that we need to form youth support groups, where we would meet as young people and deliberate on issues. We need forums where, as the youth, we would talk about challenges we face and share ideas. That would help.

Style: What do you think about the HIV and AIDS issue in the country. Is enough being done about it?
Nandi: I think as Swaziland we are getting there though the stigma is still rife. In government hospitals for example, people living with HIV and taking the medication are excluded from the rest. I feel that is not fair, that is stigmatisation at its worst. Those with other terminal illnesses like cancer are not treated in the same manner. I feel it is high time government changed that.

Style: Did you register for the elections?
Nandi: Yes, definitely I did. Though I think it is a bit unfair that some members of Parliament fail to make significant changes in their constituencies, despite their promises when they want votes. I still believe in the progress of my country. I registered under Kwaluseni constituency and I am vouching for Sibusiso Nkambule. I am positive he has the potential to change things especially the state of our roads in this area.

Style: What do you do in your spare time?
Nandi: When I am not sleeping, I listen to RnB music. My favourite artist is Rihanna. I just love her music. My best song is ‘It’s Complicated’ by the same artist. I love it because I believe that indeed relationships are a complication, be it friendships, family or romantically.

Style: Who is your role model?
Nandi: My mum. She is a strong woman and does not allow people to walk all over her. She stands her ground and speaks her mind. I admire her.

Style: What is your favourite cologne?
Nandi: Splendid by Revlon. It keeps me feeling good through out the day.

Style: Which country would you like to visit?
Nandi: Spain. I think it is beautiful and I love the language. It sounds romantic.

Style: Will you be attending the Umhlanga ceremony?
Nandi: No, I have never been there because I am asthmatic. I just go there to watch. I wish I had a chance to be part of the ceremony though. I think it is quite an experience.