“I find modelling fun and interesting,” says Natasha Khan, 10, who models for Arapapa modelling agency

A model is someone who wears clothes and displays them for people to admire and buy. A model can be male or female although female ones are the commonest. Natasha is in P.5 at Kabojja Junior School. She talked to Rainbow's Patricia Nanteza about her love for displaying clothes while on the catwalk.

MODEL: Natasha Khan

How did you start modelling?
My auntie is a friend of Santa Anzo, the owner of Arapapa modeling agency. She (my aunt) is the one who introduced me to modeling. I did not go for any kind of interview, I just started modeling and it turned out to be easy work.

What do your teachers say about your modelling?
My teachers are proud of me and celebrate my achievements with me. One day, I showed my class teacher a picture of me in the newspaper and she told the class to clap for me. I was happy that my teachers recognise the good things I and other pupils participate in outside class.

Do you feel like you are above the rest?
No, modeling does not make me put my classmates down. I remain humble but excited. I am proud of myself. My classmates and parents are also proud of me.

Are you paid to model?
No, I am not paid but I enjoy every moment on the catwalk. I find modeling fun and interesting.

Aren’t you scared of the catwalk?
Not at all. Actually, whenever I am on stage, I feel good and at ease. With time, you get used to catwalking and the tension disappears.
Also the friends I model with are helpful and boost my confidence.

Do you enjoy both school and modelling at the same time?
Yes I do. A lot. By the way, my studies come first. My best subject is science and my best friend is Priscilla with whom I play and walk.

Who is your favourite designer?
My favorite designer is Top Shop. Their clothes are nice and I like them. All other designers are good but Top Shop has exceptional clothes in nice colours.

What is your most memorable incident in modeling?
It is the fashion show during the Uganda Fashion Week because the President attended and there were many designers and people. I felt good throughout the catwalk and it was an honour to model before all those people. I also met a lot of designers from outside Uganda.

What do you want to become when you grow up?
(Modeling has not changed her idea of what she wants to become when she grows up.)
I want to be a doctor and also continue with modeling. I want to model internationally as well as treat sick people. I think Uganda will love a modeling doctor in a few years to come. I want to fulfill my dreams and I advise other children to ‘dream big’ and make their dreams come true.

Natasha is the daughter of Mr Shabila and Ms Shiroz Khan who are not only proud of their daughter but support her modelling greatly.