Model fights youth drug addiction through physical training

BY KIMBERLY KARIATI

LOCAL award-winning fitness trainer and business model Tawanda Uladi said his mission is to encourage young people to embrace fitness training and stay away from addiction. Uladi says he wants to educate communities on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Background

I have been in the modeling industry since 2016. Everything is going well despite challenges like finances and recognition as many people look down on emerging models.

As for me, I have made progress, won awards and enjoy my current title, which is the best fitness model in Zimbabwe.

Individuality

My physical appearance which is a good shape and a balanced body brings out the uniqueness of the products offered by these brands which actually qualified me in the industry. Working with people requires a good attitude which is something I have as I am hardworking, easy to work with and have a good sense of humor.

Motivation

My strong passion for fitness was a great inspiration for the start of my modeling career. My teammates and my manager support me.

Vision

Gym activities reduce drug use and are also prohibited in the modeling industry.

My vision is to contribute to the fight against drug addiction through gym activities that help those who abuse it to rehabilitate.

I also want to change the way people look at male models so that they start to understand that male models are up to the task just like their female counterparts. As a male top model, my dream is to work in partnership with international companies and participate in fitness competitions.

Fitness Benefits

Fitness is known for its health benefits of strengthening muscles and the immune system, which increases the proper functioning of metabolic activities in the body. The good health of the body increases the lifespan and decreases the signs of aging.

Challenges

The company generally thinks that modeling is for women only, so they get more attention than men in the industry, which is why we end up having fewer competitions than our counterparts. Job postings and brand announcements are primarily aimed at women. Nowadays we have no more sponsors and it is disadvantageous that in competitions many models find themselves without money, but only with titles. The assumption that male role models are homosexual also destroys the confidence of male role models. Because of this, we often fail to engage. Sometimes, failing to identify the right business partnership can cause this industry to drop out as well.

Role of social networks

Social media has contributed a lot to my modeling career, so I get brands that need marketing. It also contributes a lot to my career, especially the feedback both positive and negative that I use to improve my work.

Endorsements

I’m the Chief Brand Ambassador for Jerome Wear Zimbabwe, Royal Designs Apparel, Brand Ambassador at Muscle Rage Supplements, Zimbabwe Models, Vice President of TelOne Modeling Club, Business Model at Sapphie Media and Life Fitness Gym Trainer. Working with different brands has been fair, although some companies refuse to pay for the work done in promoting their brands.

Honors

I was the best fitness model (2019), the first place of Life Fitness (2019) and the fourth place of the sports model GS CLASSIC in 2020.

Main achievement

I received the Best Fitness Model in Zimbabwe award and was a 2019-2020 Mr. Zimbabwe finalist. I will always remember being nominated for the Glam Awards at a very young age, which was my very first nomination in modeling.

• Follow Kimberly on twitter @lizellekimkari