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Blessing Okogba is a 200 level medical student of University of University of Lagos. She never wanted anything to do with something that would bring her out in the open but her height and figure made it almost impossible for her as people constantly reminded her she should be a model. She took the bait when the Miss Gbagada pageant came along and as they say, the rest is history. Hear her story:
How did you get to be part of the Miss Gbagada pageant?
I’ve had interest in modelling, but I usually avoid things that will bring me out. A friend of mine told me about the training on catwalk, make-up and all, so I went for it. Initially, when I heard about the pageant, I was nonchalant, but my friend encouraged me to go for it. I went for it and as God would have it, I won.
We rarely find medical students doing stuff like this, what was the connection for you?
Like I said before, I never liked anything that would bring me into the public glare. I’m just the classroom type, but I’m blessed with a good height so sometimes I just find myself wanting to model even though I didn’t want to do it full time. After I contested for the pageant, I realised I had the potentials.
What was the contest like?
It was a first for me. It was really competitive because there were a lot of beautiful girls. The challenging part for me was that a lot of people would have to like my pictures on facebook and I was not the social media type, but I got support from people. I didn’t really go into the competition for the sake of winning. I just wanted to be among people who were entirely different from my usual crowd. But during the training, I learnt a lot of things and it was fun.
What gave you the edge over the other contestants?
First of all, it was God. Secondly, my height and the way I spoke. I wouldn’t say it was my looks because there were other girls there who were prettier.
How has going for the pageant made you a better person?
It has really helped me because it brought me out of my shell. Before now, I could go out without wearing make-up, but I can’t anymore. It helped me pay more attention to myself and to interact with people. I didn’t know how to stand before people and speak, but now I’m bolder and outspoken. I’ve also met and connected with a lot of people.
How do you intend to make an impact in the lives of the youths in the area?
We just finished one of our pet projects for the orphanage – Bills of Mercy. The next one is the condom project. We can’t say people don’t know about sex in this 21st century. It’s either you abstain or you get protected, that’s what we are driving at. We are bringing people to educate the youths on this.
How do you intend to combine this with your education?
I’m in my second year in school and it hasn’t been easy. It takes the grace of God and understanding of the organisers of the pageant.
How far do you intend to take the modelling thing?
I intend to contest for other pageants after Miss Gbagada.
Has anything changed with the way you’re treated since you won the pageant?
Yes and I don’t really like it, especially in school. I’ve gained a lot of respect. There are certain positions that naturally accord you respect even when you don’t earn it, I’ve found myself in such a position.
Any regrets?
I’m actually having fun
Are you in a relationship?
At present, I’m not. There are certain things I want to do first. Like my dad would say ‘School first’.
Are your parents in support?
Yes, thank God for the kind of parents I have. Even though my dad was initially not in support, but now he understands that it’s something I must do.
What has being Miss Gbagada deprived you off?
Usually, on a normal day, I can wear a jean and top with a normal slippers. That was how carefree I was, I didn’t really care about how I looked. I like to go with my natural hair. Sometimes, I’d want to talk or act in a certain way and then I remember I can’t because of what I represent.
Last words?
First of all, I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to the organisers for the opportunity. I also want to tell the youths especially the ladies out there to believe in themselves. They don’t have to depend on men to survive and they should always believe in their dreams and work towards achieving their goals.
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