Mental health awareness is close to my heart. I’ve seen some young talented people in the fashion and arts industry go through severe depression and a few take their own lives. It’s especially traumatic when it affects those close to you. Whether you’re a model, photographer, musician, student, entrepreneur or doctor mental health can affect you when you don’t check in on yourself. Sometimes life happens and it can be hard to put a smile on your face at work. But with more awareness and support in the workspace, I believe lives can be saved before it’s too late. More conversations about mental health could be initiated in my industry and I hope to see that happening frequently.
Loren hopes to see her country’s fashion and modeling industry become internationally recognized and to work with well-known fashion brands from outside Zimbabwe.
Loren Dondo is a female model aged 25 under the management of Exclusive Modeling Agency
She started modeling at the age of 20. Ever since she was a kid she was obsessed with fashion. Her first encounter with the world of modeling was when she came across a channel called Fashion TV around the age of 9. She made the decision to be a model. Unfortunately her dream was delayed due to her commitment with studies
Besides modeling she is a full time digital producer for ZBC
When we asked how she balances her careers she said “It’s become quite easy with time. At first it was challenging, as most bookings can happen during the week and last minute. I normally enjoy working during the morning or day and work night shifts for my job as a producer. Weekends are usually where all the fun happens. My agent makes sure to book me over weekends as I’ll have free time and the peace of mind to focus on my modeling. I believe anything is possible if you put your motivation in it and that’s what I’ve done so far as a model.”
Through modeling she mostly gained the recognition for her craft. She likes to bring her personality and sense of fashion on set. Most photographers and designers give her room to make suggestions and that’s what made her unique as a model in Zimbabwe. Also she has gained the knowledge and experience from those she has worked with in the industry and the recognition and respect for what she brings to the table.
We went on to ask her the challenges you have faced as a model and she said “Well I think my body has gone many changes over the last few years. As much as I come across as confident in my own skin, I push myself to look my best. The biggest challenge has been some insecurities concerning my weight and height in such a competitive space with many beautiful ladies. It’s only here and there that I’m reminded of it but I have a great support system and it’s helped me fix my crown in times of doubt”
