Celeb Interviews

Nicole Laxton Interview

nicole laxtonWho is Nicole ?

I am 19 years of age and I live in Bedfordview, east of Johannesburg. My passion is art and I have recently been awarded a Presidential Scholarship to study Fine Arts at one of the world’s most illustrious art universities in New York. I want to imbue my “Africanism” in the art that I create. I have a deep concern for the incredible human suffering of people living on the African continent as well as the destruction of our environment and our animals and these issues resonate strongly in my artworks. I recently completed a certified course in photography.  I will be doing my performers diploma in dramatic arts through the Trinity College of London in September 2013. I am a part-time model with Star Model management in Johannesburg, a finalist for Miss Earth SA 2013 and I am also the Youth Ambassador for Epilepsy South Africa. I am passionate about food so I love cooking and I also love travelling.

 

How and when were you diagnosed with epilepsy?

My epilepsy was diagnosed at the age of 9. I had a seizure which prompted my parents to investigate this with a neurologist and I underwent an EEG which confirmed that I had Absence epilepsy also known as Petit-mal epilepsy.


What were some of the challenges you faced starting off your modelling career?

Modelling for me has always been a part-time interest. It is not a primary career focus for me but it certainly does give me opportunities to perform in front of the camera which I love doing whether for film or just for editorial purposes. The biggest challenge I have had to face is my height. Regrettably I do not meet the industry standards to do any ramp modelling. I’m too short.

You were Top 12 Finalist for Miss SA Teen in 2011, a regional semi-finalist for Miss Earth SA 2013 in Gauteng and more. What do you attribute your success to?
I believe my success can be attributed to the fact that I don’t try to pretend to be someone that I am not. I’m completely myself and I believe that is what shines through when I’m in front of judges and speaking to them.
You are the youth ambassador for epilepsy SA. How did that come about?
I approached Epilepsy SA when I was 16 years old. I had been on their website and noticed that Jonty Rhodes was an ambassador. What I saw was lacking, was a young person to represent and speak out on behalf of teenagers living with epilepsy. I proposed the idea and it was well accepted and that is why I represent the organisation today. At the time I was a Miss SA Teen 2011 finalist so having this profile I believe also helped, because the message to all teenagers living with epilepsy was that I was an example of someone who saw my epilepsy as a challenge and it didn’t stop me from attaining the goals that I had set for myself.


Why Epilepsy?
It was an obvious choice. I live with epilepsy and know all the challenges that I have to face and therefore I am able to speak about it with knowledge.
What is your role as a brand ambassador?
My role as a Youth Ambassador is to reach out to the youth and educate them about epilepsy because of all the misconceptions that surrounds this condition. I also appear on national TV programmes and talk to the press about my condition when required. I’m also an editorial contributor to the EPINEWS newsletter and I write articles on epilepsy aimed at young teenagers.
What was the best advice you ever received and from who?
The best advice I ever received was from my dad. My dad is a businessman and it was a principal he was exposed to which he shared with me. It is Stephen Covey’s principal known as the 90/10 rule. 10% of life is made up of what happens to you. 90% is made up of how you react. What this means is that we really have no control over 10% of what happens to us. In my case I have no control over the fact that I have epilepsy. How I choose to live with this condition is completely within my control.

nicole laxton3Who are your top 3 role models in Africa?
Desmond Tutu (Prominent SA clergy man), Mary Sibanda (Artist) and Clem Sunter (Businessman).
How did it feel to be one of the finalists on Top Model World Wide?
I was selected as one of 45 contestants from around the world to compete in this competition. This gave me international exposure. I won the beauty and skincare title at the competition. For me it was great because I learnt a lot.

What legacy would you like to leave?
My contributions to society are more important than my limitations. My achievements are defined by what I can contribute and the difference that I can make. This is the legacy that I want to leave behind.
If your house was burning down, what are the three things you would save?
Important documents and photos, my personal art and my dogs.
What advice would you give to a young person who is trying to break into the modelling industry?
It’s a tough industry and you need to know how to cope with rejection. Also watch out for con-artists who will try and lure you into the business. There is also an ugly side to the business so always make sure you join a reputable agency.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Leonardo Di Caprio

nicole laxton2What music are you listening to?
My music taste is varied. Currently I’m listening to SEAL, U2, Eminem, Rodriguez and Goodluck.

How can people get in touch with you (facebook, twitter, website and etc)?
The best way to reach me is through my website: www.nicolelaxton.com, my Professional Facebook page – Nicole Laxton and Instagram

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