Joyce Chidebe – ‘Project Runway SA’ Winning Model’ Aiming for More Wins

As one that’s Laser focused, from her first professionally day on the ramp, the aim was to meticulously work hard and walk her way with precision in the quest to become one of the most celebrated models not just in Nigeria or Africa but on the world stage. She’s keeping to those promises.

Words by Sesan Adeniji

“I did my first runway show in 2010 and I never looked back. I have worked for the likes of Mai Atafo, April by Kunbi, David Tlale, David Jones, Rich Mnisi, Ryan keys, Mantho by manthos just to name a few. I’ve also did jobs for Xpression hair and extension for 4 years, commercials for the likes of Sanlam, Dstv, Econet, Flying fish, Shoprite just to name a few.

I took part in the maiden edition of both ‘Africa’s Next Top Model’ where I came out top six and ‘Project Runway South Africa’ where I came out as the winning model! I am currently signed to Boss Models South Africa. My full names are Joyce ‘Ngozi’ Chidebe – I’m one ambitious model with a heart of a lion – patiently learning, evolving and attempting to achieve unprecedented greatness.

I am the 3rd child in a family of 7; I was born in Lagos state Nigeria. I attended both primary (Richway Nursery and Primary school) and high school (Methodist Girls High School) in Lagos state, and University of Benin – Edo state where i studied Computer Science. Growing up was something! I grew up in an apartment that had a cacophony of people in it because my parents never turned a blind eye to a person in need. You have accommodation problem, there’s always a couch/bed for you to sleep in. No food, there is always a plate for you.

The #pro of that was that I understood people’s suffering from a really young age and it taught me humility. The #con on the other hand is I am a very quiet/private person so the inability to quiet the noise and have an alone time irked me. In all it helped shape me into who I am today: strong, humble, grounded and disciplined.

I decided to go into modeling when I was 17.

I started off with pageants where I later won MBGN ECOWAS 2012 and came second runner up in Miss ECOWAS international. Standing at height: 180cm, Bust: 86cm, Waist: 64cm, Hips: 94cm, shoe: 9 UK with hair black and brown eyes, I’m busy dreaming with my eyes wide open, staying active and seizing different opportunities that comes my way via the entertainment/modeling world” – Joyce Chidebe