Born to a Nigerian father and Hungarian mother, Sarah Ofilli is an international model, blogger, presenter, and designer. The certified beauty specialist from the London School of Beauty and Make-up, who has a Diploma degree in Psychology from the University of Jos, has carved a niche for herself in the world of style and fashion. KATE ANI caught up with the sexy blonde who celebrated her birthday recently Here are the excerpts from the encounter.
When did you start modelling and what was the very first step you took?
Modelling was something I bumped into. it was something I dreamt of but at that time, I didn’t go searching for it; it came across as a competition from a new modelling agency and photography studio. I applied for fun and voila! The rest is history.
As an international model, can you tell us the best place you have worked in?
I would say Italy. I am in love with Italy. Right now, I’m
working on my shoe collection at a factory in Italy. Everything there is so artistic, cultural and glamorous. It is very inspiring, I love it!
You are both a beautician and designer. How did that come about?
I actually studied Beauty & Aesthetics at the London School of Beauty & Aesthetics. Beauty is my passion. I love women to look good, and I guess it’s the girly side of me. I don’t practise full time per say, I like to think of myself as a consultant. Modelling and beauty aesthetics kind of go together. As a model, you must must strive to look your best. So, that just became another passion that I developed.
Who are the people you look up to in the industry?
All the greatest designers! I don’t have one particular person. I aspire to be as successful and creatively inspiring as they are.
Your shoe brand is called Katona, how did you come about the name?
Katona is actually my mother’s maiden name. It is a Hungarian name, it means soldier. I decided to use my mum’s name as a tribute to her, it’s sentimental for me.
At what point did you decide you wanted to design shoes?
I can’t actually remember the exact moment it happened, but in between modelling and studying, I discovered that I needed to do more in life. I am a very creative person; my brain is always on overdrive. I’m always thinking of how I can express myself creatively. Another passion of mine, and of every other woman, I’m sure, is “shoes”. We all love the high end expensive couture heels, but we can’t all afford them so, I figured it out that I should make the same sort of couture designs and make them more affordable.
What distinguishes your shoes from other brands?
Well, I like to think every shoe is different whether it is designer label or high street. All my shoes have a distinctive look to them. I can’t reveal too much about the collection now but when you see them, you will know they are Katona. Trust me .
Your most memorable shoes?
My most precious pair shoes would be one of my Gianmarco Lorenzi Couture shoes. It is just so beautiful and architectural with lots of embellishments. Gianmarco Lorenzi designs are actually statement shoes. The first day I walked into his store, I knew I wanted my designs to have that exact wow factor.
Do you make your own shoes?
No, I still buy shoes from different designers. You can never have enough shoes.
How willl you describe your style?
I really don’t know if I can say I have one particular kind of style. It varies. Sometimes, I’m hippy chic, at other times , I’m pin-up, hip-hop, etc. I just wear whatever makes me comfortable and happy that day.
Can we say that Sarah Ofilli is just a fashionista or is there more to you than meet the eyes?
I don’t even consider myself a “fashionista” but if you say so… ( laughs). Of course, there is more to me, I am a very smart, creative, ambitious and spiritual young woman.
I don’t blow my own horn. People, especially guys, get surprised when they meet me, because they expect me to be one young dumb blonde, and I am so far from that. I’ve been told I have an old soul, I guess it all comes from my upbringing and that I am very proud of.
As a cosmetologist, what are your three musts?
Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise.
You are one of the most beautiful women in the entertainment industry, how do you handle male fans/admirers?
I don’t focus on that. I appreciate them but I don’t let their advances get to me. Men come and go. You can’t let your beauty be the main focus. Rather, it is who you are inside as a person that matters most. I love all my male fans and admirers, they help me stay sexy.
You and rapper, Ikechukwu, were once engaged and it was rumored you broke up with him due to his cheating habits. True or false?
It’s not something I talk about, I am in a different place in my life now, I’m in a good place. That’s just part of my past now. We’ve both moved on.
He was at your birthday party recently, any chance of getting back together?
(laughs…) He came as a friend to show support, that’s that. We are not back together at all!
You were once rumoured to be pregnant, was that true?
I clearly don’t have a child now so that answers the question. I guess I just ate too much Nigerian food.
So how do you cope with all the negative publicity and rumours?
I just ignore them, simple! People make assumptions and you can’t go around explaining yourself. I don’t owe anyone but God explanations on how I live my life. They don’t know me personally, so why should it affect my life ?
We heard you are now a television presenter. Tell us about it?
Well, that’s something I am very proud of. But I can’t call myself a presenter yet. I am producing my own television show, so, it’s not really presenting but producing.
Who are your favourite designers?
I don’t really have a favourite, it depends though. A couple of brands I do love include Celine, Mui-Mui, Givenchy, Stella Mccartney, to mention a few.
Who do you most admire in the world?
Myself. Who can you admire and love more than yourself?
What part of your body do you cherish the most? All! I’m learning to love and cherish all of me. I work hard to stay fit and healthy so why just love one part ? I love all!
Where is your favourite hangout spot in the world?
Home! It is the one place I can let my hair down and be free. All the good foods, drinks and music, I can have at home especially when I have my family and friends over with me.
Culled from Tribune