MEET THE FASTEST RISING STAR OF THE MODELING WORLD_ MS. MARIATU INGA, AKA RIA2.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, one remarkable model is making waves with her unique style and captivating presence. I had the chance to sit down with this rising star to discuss her journey, inspiration and the challenges she face in the industry,especially, in a society where most people are of the ideology that modeling is another civilized form of prostitution.
This rising star, Ms. Mariatu Inga, AkA Ria2, is a 17 years old Sierra Leonean, born on the 30th of August,2007, in Murray Town, Freetown. She's a pupil of the Royal International High School, in SSS 3 Science and currently Miss Royal International High School. This svelte, adorable and beautiful young star, is also a skilled Make-up Artist and a passionate Model.
Speaking with her about her journey in the modeling world, I had the privilege to ask Rai2 how she got into modeling and being able to navigate her school work with modeling ?
Ms. Mariatu Inga said that, she got into modeling when she partook in their school competition and won. She further mentioned that, her journey in the modeling world has not been easy mainly because she's still in school; as she only gives 10% of her time to modeling while the remaining 90% is given to her academic work.
This rising star believes that " fashion is a form of self-expression.” It is this uniqueness that has set her out from her mate and colleagues in the industry. Her superb style, intelligence and creativity as well as her verbal dexterity and linguistics sophistication has pave the way and incepted the opportunity and leverage she needs to excell in the industry, as she continues to pushing those boundaries and challenging traditional beauty standards. Resilience she expressed ," is key in this industry. Regardless of the fact that she has only taken one year in the modeling industry, she said, "You have to keep pushing forward no matter what, and draw inspiration from strong, diverse women who have paved the way for us.”
When asked who is her mentor and what's the major thing that attracted her to modeling ?
She said, " I am my biggest mentor, but I actually do mentor Anntonia Porsild. She is a model and she was Miss.Thailand 2023 and Miss. Universe 2023 1st Runner Up," but the thing that attracts me to modeling she expressed is, " My passion for fashion, creativity and expressing myself through poses and styles. Modeling allows me to showcase different looks and tell stories through images. It's all about embracing my unique style and confidence; and i'm not only a lover of modeling but also a lover of showcasing my talents. So I shall say modeling is everything to me because it’s the only way I can overcome my insecurities and fears. And also it’s makes me to be who I am, so modeling is everything to me. It is for this reason I chose it as a career, because I have the passion for it, and I chose it because it is the one thing I am good at and I love it."
Summing up the discussion with this kind and charming star, I had the final chance to ask her what her thoughts are on the future of modeling and fashion in Sierra Leone and what candid advice would she like to give to parents that are against modeling as a career?
Rai2 said that, The future of fashion and modeling in Sierra Leone is going to make a significant improvement in the lives of young people, the industry and even the nations economy. Modeling and fashion is going to take Sierra Leone to the zenith of global seat, with prominence and relevance and I’m excited to be part of that change. So, I advice parents to encourage their children in anything they want to do as a career. Being a Model does not mean that you are a bad person or will engage into prostitution as society deems it . It just shows how different you are, so I advice all parents to kindly give their support to their children and disassociate themselves from the negative misconception of the profession."
As this model continues to make her mark in the fashion and modeling world, her story remind us of the power of individuality and perseverance. With her unique perspective and talent, she is not just walking the runway—she is reshaping it.
Story by : Alusine Jalloh
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