Stella Oganwu is a determined young woman who has overcome significant challenges to achieve success in life, even after losing her mother at a young age. Currently making waves as a model in Switzerland, she expresses deep gratitude to her father, Mr. David Oganwu, for his unwavering support in providing her with a good life and bringing her to Switzerland, where she continues to thrive. In the beautiful European country, Stella is actively engaged in various pursuits, including modeling, coaching, hotel management, fashion design, acting, and other admirable endeavors that make Nigerians proud. With her petite frame and stunning looks, Stella radiates joy and confidence as she discusses her experiences in Switzerland, her future aspirations, and her passion for caring for children.
In a recent interview, she shared her insights on her lifestyle, the challenges she has faced, and her upcoming projects.
Can we meet you?
I am Stella Oganwu. I am from the Oshimili North Local Government area of Asaba, Delta State in Nigeria. My father was living in Switzerland and he took me to the country at the age of 18. I initially went to Switzerland and came back to Nigeria after three months for my examination. After that, I finally went back I used to live with family members back in Nigeria then, but my father decided to take me to Switzerland that it was better for me to be with him than to be with family members.
You are a model & a coach. How did you navigate through the rough paths of life having lost your mother at a tender age? What lessons for those who have no parent to tend them?
Answer: First of all, I want to say thanks to God almighty for always directing my paths and decisions that i make. Life can be rough, but understanding the truth of life matters. When things become difficult for you, it’s a push to keep working hard because the best is waiting for you in front by the grace of God and strength. My advice to those who do not have parents to tend them is to remember that they are never alone. Everyone has a purpose on earth, which is the reason why God created us with or without parents. Also for being alive is a great reason to be grateful and keep moving forward. Be happy, don’t use your situation to conclude your life. You overcome by appreciating and accepting who you are.
This Zs doesn’t really want to work, they like it quick, they damn the consequences of their actions, what can you tell them having overcome so many challenges in life?
Answer: I want to say this, which might sound really strong, but it’s the fact. A straight road leads to a setback, but before you can say yes, I made it, you should be able to pass through the waves, rocks, mountains, seas, storms, and fire. Success can’t be achieved without failing, falling, disappointments, mistakes, and patience. Anything you get in a rush or in a deceitful way will not last and you can’t see any good coming out from it because it’s not the right way and in the sight of God is not pleasant. You need to be patient, work hard, no matter how challenging it looks, believe God that at his own right time, he will show you mercy, and you will be surprised. God’s time is the best. It might look very far or long, but it is worth waiting by obeying and doing his will.
You talked about caring for less privileged children as your divine assignment. Who are these children? What do you offer them? How sustainable is your offering to them?
Answer: The less privileged children are those who are forgotten and have no voice or care. If you go to the street, you will notice that a lot of children are without homes, parents, clothes and food. The orphans, the disabled and the children on the street are my main focus. We will offer them food, clothes, support them in any way we can for shelter by the grace of God. We will do more as God leads us and also from our supporters, sponsors, and partners in the future. This will take place annually by the grace of God.
Modeling is seen as a dirty kind of pursuit, laced with immorality. Why should young people, particularly ladies, dive into it?
Answer: Modeling is not supposed to be seen in this way because it is a talent, and we all have our talent that should not be misunderstood. We have different kinds of Modeling e.g. Runway, commercial, editorial, fashion, lingerie, petite, plus size, erotic, body part, body painting, swim wear, hand, promotional, mature, fitness, and hair models. As a child of God, we can be models in an appropriate way. In all these models’ types, we have our choice to make what suits our talent. My advice to upcoming young models is to follow their dreams and be very careful. Let their parents give them the guidelines they need by working them into the right parts so they don’t get carried away by money. When i mean money, it is because the ones that pay very well are those that make people think Modelling is immorality. They will pay you so well that at the end you will feel that’s the best but it’s not because at the end exposing your body with great pay can’t be erased. It’s forever out there. Choose wisely and be patient. It will pay off no matter how long it takes.
For whatsoever reason, can you return home to establish your business in Nigeria? Give reasons to your answer.
Answer: A big YES on this question. I love my country, Nigeria. I am a proud Nigerian any day, any time. Let’s not forget, HOME WILL ALWAYS BE HOME. No matter where I go, I would have my home as my establishmen, which is the grace of God.
When people call you from Nigeria & complain about the excruciating & epileptic economy, what would you rather advise them to do to survive the harsh economy? Do you offer them fish to eat or?
Answer: First of all, the economy epileptic is everywhere in the whole world. Things are super expensive, taxes are doubled, house rent has increased, and so on. The only thing you can do at this point is to put more effort into your God-given talent and work also. Don’t underrate any job because you need to survive. By surviving, i mean, taking jobs that are genuine is important. If you have to give them fish, how many would you give? We are all working hard to make ends meet. So hard work and your talent with God’s grace is what you need.
Nigeria is like hell fire- economically, What is your take about Japa? Do you support Nigerians leaving the country for countries like Switzerland, UK, US, etc. (or they should stay & perish in penury)?
Answer: Everyone is allowed to travel out of the country to acquire more knowledge and new techniques to better our country, Nigeria. One piece of advice i have is to make sure you do your own research, make sure you are going to get a job in that country you want to go to, and stay. Get all the most important information you need before selling off all you have in your own country to go start from zero.
What can you say about women in leadership? Nigeria has the lowest level of women participation in government across the globe. How can women break through in Nigeria politics.
Answer: Women need to be heard because I feel their voices have not been heard. Women are very important, and they are good leaders too. In our countries, they don’t look down on women but give them the chance to lead. We are all human, be it men and women. We all deserve to lead.
How has your fashion show & exhibition impacted young people and Nigeria economy at large? Then tell us the significance of your coming fashion show and exhibition. Of what economic importance would it be to Nigeria?
Answer: As a professional make-up artist and brand owner of Stelwith_class Cosmetics , i decided to come up with this amazing event with some creatives and talented people.
ABOUT SWISS/NIGERIA BEAUTY AND FASHION EXHIBITION: Bringing beauty and fashion together to be able to support the less privileged ones (Charand also to recognise every talented and creative person around Nigeria. The beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria are vibrant and rapidly evolving. “Bridging Cultures, Defining Trends” aims to celebrate this dynamism by bringing together leading designers, beauty experts, and industry professionals from both countries.
This exhibition will feature:
Fashion Shows: Showcasing the latest collections of Nigerian designers.
Beauty Demonstrations & Workshops: Featuring Stelwith_class Cosmetics’ innovative products and techniques, as well as insights from Nigerian beauty experts.
Exhibition Booths: Display a range of beauty and fashion products, accessories, and services.
Networking Sessions: Facilitating connections between industry professionals, influencers, and potential customers.
Cultural Fusion: Blending Swiss precision and innovation with Nigerian vibrancy and creativity.
Event Objectives: To foster cultural exchange and collaboration between Switzerland and Nigeria.
To provide a platform for Swiss and Nigerian beauty and fashion brands to showcase their products and services.
To create a unique and engaging experience for attendees.
To generate significant brand exposure for Stelwith_class Cosmetics.
To recognise all creatives and talented people: ( models, hairstylists, make-up artists, dancers, singers, comedians, photographers, videographers, creative directors, project managers, fashion Designers etc.)