Celebrities who are plus size have struggled their way to acceptance and recognition through resilience, boldness and a strong self-esteem.
The likes of Wunmi Obe, Aretha Franklin have risen above the label of being plus-sized to becoming trail blazers in their fields.
Adaeze Vivian Ene known as Eva Kiss on Instagram is a sought after plus size model, social media influencer and media personality.
In this chat with TheNewsGuru, the sensational damsel opens up on being a plus size model, her struggles, part of her body that gets her the most attention, among other issues.
What made you become a plus size model?
Victor Silas made me become a plus size model. He kept on writing me on Instagram and I was like who is this guy? When I finally responded to his message, we engaged in a very serious conversation about plus size modelling, I was skeptical at first because I was in Abuja then and there isn’t a large market for it there unlike Lagos. With further persuasions from him, I decided to do my NYSC youth service here in Lagos.As soon as I got here, everything began to fall into place. Victor Silas is currently my manager as we speak.
What does it take to become a plus size model?
To become a plus size model, you first need to identify what type of modelling you would like to do. Then you need to become serious about modelling. For models that will like to be signed to an agency, you need to conduct a research on the good agencies that will be best for you. You also need to take seriously your mental and physical health.
In becoming a plus size model, knowing your height and size measurements is also very vital .You also need to be body confident, develop a quality modelling portfolio and composite card, attend open calls or castings this helps in expanding your ideas and experiences in becoming a plus size model.
At what age did you start becoming conscious of your curves or boobs?
I have always been conscious of my boobs and curves before I became a teen .People will keep starring and I always ask my mum lots of questions. She always enlighten me and let’ me know things about my body. She played a huge role in my life and concerning my body confidence.
Was there a time you wished you were slim?
I have never wished to be slim; my parents have full figures and also other family members. I have always had a full body and love my body.
What do you think about body shaming and it’s effects?
I keep asking people how they expect others to keep a healthy body by first making them feel miserable about themselves. It is a form of bullying and can lead to long term psychological and health related issues, I know this too well cause I studied psychology. Everyone should desist from it and promote pure body love.
How do you react to negative social media comments?
I just delete it and block the individual involved. My block list is endless. Cyber bullies are just a waste of data and breath.
Has being an influencer on social media been a blessing or a curse?
It has certainly been a blessing in so many ways. As soon as I was on the front page of Vanguard on April 22nd 2017, it gave room for more door opening opportunities. I didn’t need to attend casting calls to get modelling jobs.
What does sex mean to you?
Sex means different things to different people, but to me it means a healthy and natural activity.it is something most people enjoy and find meaningful even if they create meaning in different ways
How far can you go as a model in flaunting your sex appeal?
I will never go as far as doing a nude photo-shoot. Everyone has a boundary in their various professions.
What part of your body gets you the most attention?
My boobs get me the most attention.
How does having early puberty affect your maturity?
It makes me more aware about your body and people’s intentions towards you. You will definitely have an edge over others in new experiences concerning your body. You won’t think or act your age because people in the same age bracket aren’t experiencing those things yet .I like to think of the effect to be advantageous.
What is the craziest thing you ever done for love?
I kept an open access to my phone and social media accounts.
What will be your final words?
I will quote Ashley Graham on this one, “It doesn’t matter if you are a size 2 or 22, you can be healthy as long as you are taking care of your body , working out and telling yourself ‘I LOVE YOU’ instead of taking in the negativity of beauty standards”.