I’ll remain relevant as long as I want – Bryan Okwara
Weekly Trust: Recently you lent your voice to a television advertisement. Are you thinking of going into the music industry soon? Bryan Okwara: Well, it was just an advert concept and they thought I have a great voice, so, I guess that’s why I fit the part. But doing music full time I would believe […]
Weekly Trust: Recently you lent your voice to a television advertisement. Are you thinking of going into the music industry soon?
Bryan Okwara: Well, it was just an advert concept and they thought I have a great voice, so, I guess that’s why I fit the part. But doing music full time I would believe is a lot diverse than just an add. So I wouldn’t know if am cut out for it.
You are into modeling, acting, presenting and all that. Which of these do you enjoy doing best?
I would say they all revolve around each other and each career has its benefits and interests. So, I just try to have fun, love what I do and try to break new grounds.
How has life been for you after winning Mr. Nigeria five years ago?
Well, it’s been rewarding and am glad I could stand as an ambassador and fly our flag high both at national and international levels. I am proud to be flying the Nigerian flag positively. Till today, people still refer to me as Mr. Nigeria.
What motivated you to take part in the Mr. Nigeria competition?
Good friends that thought it was a great opportunity for me. And special thanks to that person who got me the form.
What was the greatest challenge you encountered in that competition and did it ever crossed your mind that you would win?
The greatest challenge was pushing myself to do unimaginable things I thought was never possible. And until the end, I didn’t think I would have won, because the other contestants who later became friends were also able.
Tell us briefly about your experience in the Mr. World competition.
I came in the top ten most desirable men in that competition held in Sanya, the second southernmost Chinese city. It held on a secluded island and a fantastic tourist attraction. It was the first time the Nigerian flag was ever announced as part of Mr. World. I made top 10 and beat countries like America, England, Canada etc, but I was so overwhelmed with joy that I could make such a great first impression.
You studied International Relations. So how did you venture into the entertainment industry?
First as a model. My first job was a beverage calendar and then went on to being a television presenter for Nigezie. From there, I continued to reach for the sky and here I am today.
You are also into acting. What movie have you worked on recently?
Gosh! I’ve shot quite a lot, but my latest is ‘Strive’.
What do you look for in a movie script for you to take a role in it?
Good story line, good character definition, awesome dialogue plots, casts and a great director.
Which role has been your most challenging in a movie?
When I played as a demigod for a movie called ‘The Awakening’ by James Omokwe.
Who are your role models in the Nigerian entertainment industry?
Wow! I’ve got a lot of people to thank for my career, those who stood as a pillar to my success. The likes of Dan Foster, Obaro Ibru, Guy Bruce, Kwame, Uche, Ramsey, Desmond, Ini, Kate Henshaw, Stella Damasus, Julie, Tosin Allen, Mai, Joan Okorodudu, etc..
You seem to have a lot on your hands. How have you been able to remain relevant in the modeling scene now that we have a lot of models around?
No matter what, you always get better at what you do except you drop the ball. In other words your career is in your hands. I will remain relevant as long as I desire too.
You must be spending a fortune on your hair as its one of your assets. What does it cost to keep your hair in good condition?
Well I visit the Hair Whisperers Den in Lekki I Lagos. And trust me, it’s a dream come true for anyone with love for their hair. For what it costs I will remain silent on that (laughing)
What informs some of your hair styles?
My stylist and occasions.
Which actress/ actor do you desire to work with in a movie?
Stella Damasus.
Tell us about the woman in your life.
She’s tall, of dark complexion and a reflection of what a goddess should be.
Keeping fit is serious business especially for your kind of profession. What is the secret?
Regular workout sessions and eating right
How do you manage female fans?
Simple! I simply manage them (laughing)
If you weren’t in the entertainment industry, what would you have been doing in life?
Well back then I loved to recycle, but now I guess I would to be a professional car tester because I love performance cars.
Any last words for your fans?
Pray hard; work hard. Be a good representative to your friends and family, because it pays to be good. And a special thanks to all those who voted, supported and wished me well. God bless you all.