Nadine Hahn Interview
Nadine Hahn is every passionate about her family, career and Zimbabwe. In this interview Nadine shares her thoughts on being a woman in the 21st century, the modelling industry, her childhood and her journey thus far.
Please tell us about yourself, who is Nadine Hahn?
Nadine Hahn is a thriving young 22 year old who has a passion for modeling and loves interacting with people. Family means everything to me and I love making the smallest gestures but they come from my heart.
Growing up in Zimbabwe, How would you describe your childhood?
Growing up in Zimbabwe I would describe my childhood as very free and innocent. I had a lot of friends growing up and we always made the most of the time we had.
Where did the love of modelling come from?
My love for modeling came from the encouragement I got from my family and friends when they would say I have the potential to be someone great. I would watch fashion TV and follow some of the most influential models out there today e.g. Tyra Banks, Gisele, Adrianna Lima etc. I grew to notice the potential Zimbabwean girls have to make it as well and that is why I still strive to be the best that I can. I look up to our local models that are very much established across the world doing what they love.
What was your first job as a model?
My first job as a model was a fashion show I did for one of my friends
What were some of the challenges in the modelling industry?
Some of the challenges in the modeling industry I would say from my experience is trying to get a name for yourself and exposing what you have to offer. A lot of the times when there are castings for anything particular they are looking for something new, different and exciting. You have to try and be 10 people in one and I think that is what makes you a good model. Being able to adapt to what is expected of you and showing your diversity as you take on different roles.
What made you enter Miss Teen Zimbabwe? And winning meant what to you?
When I entered Miss Teen Zimbabwe I joint with the pure thought in my head of gaining more experience and raising my social platform in the modeling industry. Winning meant representing my country to the best of my ability and what a great honour and life changing experience it was. Looking back at that time in my life it couldn’t have come at the right time, It was a low point in my life and I was actually thinking of leaving the modeling industry because I felt I was not getting what I wanted out of it. So when I won everything changed and I am grateful for the blessings and opportunities that have now followed with that. It was a sign……
What are three characteristics for one to become Miss.____?
The characteristics of becoming Miss…… in my opinion are very simple. Stay true to yourself, do it for the right reasons, do what you love and love what you do…
You represented Zimbabwe in Top Model of the World, what is it about? How was the experience?
Top Model of the World is a pageant where you get to represent your country and yourself at the same time. It attracts over 40 different countries and beautiful women. You put all your past experiences and modeling abilities together to out shine a panel of 10 judges to prove that you have what it takes to be The Top Model of the World…. An amazing and life changing title to earn….
Do you think it was fair to be compared to Malaika Mushandu ahead of a competition (Top Model of the World)?
In preparations for Top Model of the World there was no one else I would have looked up to for advice and to know what her past experience was like. Being compared to her is not a bad thing but in the same breath no two people are the same so I think people’s expectations of me were very high but I still believe I gained more knowledge and experience and I still came out a winner.
What legacy did you leave as a former Miss Teen?
The legacy I left as Miss Teen, I do hope it was a positive one and that all teens are able to relate to similar circumstances and situations. Always do your best the FIRST time and all the time.
What do you want to gain by participating in beauty pageants? Why?
What I would like to gain from participating in beauty pageants is that we all do serve a purpose and once we find that purpose it’s a great feeling knowing you’re worth something. The platform that beauty pageants offer is the platform we need in Zimbabwe to boost our Tourism and diverse Cultures. I still feel a lot of people have nothing nice to say about Zimbabwe and we have to prove them wrong because our country is beautiful and this will always be home.
What kind of modelling do you enjoy doing most?
I enjoy all types of modeling such as catwalk, pageants or photography…
Who are some of your favourite designers, and why?
My favourite designs would range from our local designers such as Countess K, Joyce Chimanye. These are designers that have dressed me for international pageants.
Is it right to hold beauty contests for children below twelve years?
My personal opinion to hold beauty contests for children below twelve years is a fun idea but you don’t want to give out the wrong impression or implement mature behaviour before their time. These are kids and they should enjoy their childhood as much as possible.
What does it means to be a young African woman in the 21st Century?
Being a young African woman in the 21st century there are a lot off challenges but then again what is life without them.
How do you feel about the controversy of the size 0 debate in the modelling industry?
I feel that some people over rate the controversy of the size 0 model figure, we have moved on from that and it empowers women of all sizes to take part in pageants.
Are you involved in any community/ youth outreach initiatives? If so please share
I will be working with a few charities in the community and helping other organizations where I can.
What of type music do you listen to? Who’s your favourite musician at the moment?
I listen to all types of music, I guess I have an open mind to try new things and listen to new artists. At the moment my favourite musician is Ammara Brown, I love her strong vocals and she’s really good performer.
If a young girl/boy wanted to be a model what would your advice to them be?
My advice to young girls and young boys who have the passion and they’re driven on becoming a model is to always be diverse, sincere and hard working. I still have a long way to go, so I in vision myself to be in the next 5years and I will push and work hard to get there.
How can your fans connect with you?
My fans can connect with me on my facebook page (Nadine Hahn)
