Ohaja Joseph Chbunna, popularly known as The Fashnova Model, originates from Amaitoolu village in the Ariaria community of Osisioma Ngwa L.G.A, Abia State. At 22 years old, he is a student at the University of Calabar in Cross River State and embodies the spirit of an adventurous explorer. With a diverse array of ambitions and goals, he is not only a beautician and entrepreneur but also a professional and international runway, editorial, and fashion model. He has previously held the title of Mr. Nigeria International 2024/25 and represented Nigeria at the Mr. Glam International 2024 competition in the Philippines, among other accolades. Additionally, he is the founder and director of the registered company Fashnova D’Luxe. After five years in the modeling industry, he takes pride in his accomplishments and is committed to working hard to reach even greater heights, aiming to contribute positively to both the industry and society as a whole.
In this feature, he shared about his journey in modeling, as a pageant king, his fashion brand and many more…
How did you first get into pageant?
I’ve always had undying passion for pageant, I had my first competition a year after I graduated from secondary school and won.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your journey in pageantry?
Family approval was a hard nut to crack, I was living with my family at my early years of pageantry, getting permission to go for events and my rehearsals were almost impossible.
Who were your mentors or inspirations?
Funnily enough, I was my own mentor and my future self was my inspiration, I pushed myself to go for more achieve it because I’ve always wanted to stay being proud of myself.
What has been your most memorable pageant experience?
Every journey I’ve experienced and title I’ve held remains vivid to me especially my winning moments as MR NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL 2024/25, also in 2023 when my win was given to someone else. It was a clear day robbery which didn’t kill my dreams but urged me further to acquire a higher position.
How do you think the pageant industry has changed over the years?
With each passing year, pageantry takes a positive turning point as a lot of people both young and old now believe in the transformative impact of pageantry causing more participation and fandom, one needs not to look farther to realize his Nigeria has become a power house in globally stages both in male and female categories thereby placing the nation as the center of attention on the globe.
What do you enjoy most about modeling?
Passion.
Seeing myself working with my passion is the most enjoyable factor in modelling. Chasing my dreams, giving back to the society and most exceptionally walking the runway.
You are also the founder of Fashnova D’LUXE, tell us about the brand and the inspiration behind it.
Myself is a full representation of my brand. It’s a self whipped inspiration as I serve looks and innovative recreation of outfits.
People grew interest in it and I decided to include public service to the agenda in the sense that anyone rbi admires my sense of fashion band would love to get a piece like mine or something of their taste and creativity can reach out to me and it’ll be birthed to reality.
I major in Partnership with tailors. I design, style and direct these looks.
My target audience are;
- Fashion enthusiasts and influencers.
-Red carpet personalities and event attendees (event planners and coordinators).
- Celebrities and social media personalities.
- Fashion brands and designers seeking styling directives.
- Luxury lifestyle enthusiasts.
I operate both online and offline.
How do you balance the demands of both modeling and managing your brand?
It’s never been a hassle balancing both sectors as they even work hand in hand, I think the demands of modelling helps my brand out herself out there. By working I give it an unpaid PR for people to know more about my brand and I take my time to pay attention to clientele services and details.
How do you prepare for a big event or photoshoot?
For each forthcoming event and photoshoot, I look at the theme, I read for transitional styles that conveys a message through what I’m wearing, I work with competent team who can deliver even in less than 24 hours, I invest resources to ensure that it comes out the best. I also read so as to sound clear and correct at the red carpet during interviews which means I study completely about the event and the brand hosting it.
Are we seeing you on pageant stage soon?
One really cannot say what plans they have for pageantry, especially me. At this point I’ve amassed the height I’ve always wanted in pageantry which is going international and making an impact, motivations never dies and a waking mind is one who aspires for more… so fingers crossed.
What’s the key to success in this industry?
They’re unlimited as they vary too. From a place of personal list and honorable mention I’ll say Passion, proper grooming, acquiring knowledge that concerns the industry, financial stability, social media presence and growth of physique, mind, soul and heart.
How do you stay grounded amidst the glamour and demands of your career?
Remembering where I’m coming and where I’m headed keeps my mind in check with helping me to prioritize self care, set boundaries, stay connected to my roots, take a break and practice self reflection and also stay inspired while upholding my policies, principles and values.
What are some of your passions outside of modeling?
I’m fueled for aviation, nursing and being on the Forbes list.
What are your goals for the future?
My goals for the future are not particular but surely it is to be one of the most successful and positively influential people on earth with my name living till the ends of time.
What advice would you give to someone hoping to break into modeling?
There are numerous of advice but the most rounding of them all is to stay locked in, even while in the storms, remember why you’re into this industry and don’t give up till you achieve your aim and even after that.
What’s next for Ohaja Joseph?
The next big thing!