Meet male model Wellem Kapenda

Breaking into and working in the modelling industry can be an extremely difficult work. Getting notice can require a great deal of resources, sometimes both monetary and personal. While all careers have their struggles, being successful in the world of fashion sometimes comes with great attachment. With  social media, models all around the world can now be seen like never before, learn from each other and can easily promote their work beyond the highest of mountains. This also give us a platform to noticed their great work.

Wellem Kapenda is out of the ordinary, his an all-rounder. Go on his social media pages and you will see his work shine through. This is one Namibia’s treasure that makes the Namibian model industry worth while and giving hopes to those that have dreams in this career path. The graduate from Namibia University of Science and Technology who recently published his website, located at www.wellemkapenda.com, is the current face of the Grove Mall of Namibia, Namibia’s largest shopping mall.

The Namibian modelling industry might not be favourable or lucrative compared to other countries but nothing comes easy. Focus, hardworking, determination and consistency are the best known ingredients for any success. This gives me even sweeter joy to write on the people that make Namibian fashion industry what it is as they truly deserve all the accolades. So bellow we catch up with Wellem Kapenda and his thought on all things fashion.

Can you give a brief background of yourself, where you grew up, studied etc.?

I grew up in a small town in the Northern part of Ongwediva. I studied Informatics.

Modeling is not any easy career to pursue anywhere in the world but most especially in Namibia. So what motivated you to pursue this path?

I have had many answers to this particular question back then but now, I honestly don’t know because what I think I knew was not true at all. But all I know is that, this is my passion.

Tell us about your experiences as a model in Namibia. What are some challenges you face?

I have a website. (www.wellemkapenda.com) you’ll get all the answers there. Haha.

ln Africa Modeling and fashion is a career not fully celebrated and is not a career most parents choose for their children. With that said, what do your family think of your career as a model?

I grew up in a home with strict rules, but my parents came to an understanding and they have accepted that this is what I love.

What do you think the fashion and modeling industry need for growth and sustainability in Namibia?

One thing : we need to support each other. That’s the only way.

If you could advise anyone especially males wanting to pursue this industry, what will be your advice?

I don’t need to give advice to someone who has a dream for themselves. It’s our choice to make and that’s more than enough.

Which model, fashion icon did you looked up to when you first started and who do you look up to?

Andreas Lenga Commando, he wasn’t an icon but I looked up to him so much

What are your goals for Namibian fashion and modeling industry?

Growth

In terms of clothing I wear the most is …

Anything that makes me comfortable really

My biggest style regret is…

Sorry not sorry.

When it comes to modeling, people don’t realise…

That it’s just not walking on a runway and looking good in pictures. There’s more to that. Like I said, check out my website – everything is there. (www.wellemkapenda.com)

The best advice I’ve ever received was…

When you travel, always take something back with you.

I’d love to work with…

Maps Maponyane

My favorite place to travel is…

I have none. Let the plane decide.

My most memorable modeling gig was…

… will forever be working with The Grove Mall of Namibia

If I could live anywhere in the world, it will be…..

That’s a tricky one.

To stay in shape, I …..

Hahahaha.

The last thing I googled was…

JHI Properties.