If it’s easy for humans to sympathize with their fellow human when they are frail or no more, it should also be that easy for them to find a space in their heart to rejoice with those that are moving mountains and defying the odds to achieve their goals in life. This lady is one whose story has moved me; I just have to commend her efforts. I was done and dusted with my editorial when her story came through but it was so encouraging and motivational, I found a way to slot it in. Despite experiencing her fair share of obstacles while growing up, her desire to become an outstanding model has not been easy. She has fought both emotional and psychological battles to achieve her goals thus far.

 

Age 23, with a statistics of 32, 28, 34 and standing at 5ft 8inches, Adebayo Deborah Adeolapo Taiwo’s road to enjoying a good life and achieving her goal of modelling has been rocky. Eccabelle as she’s called is a twin and the last born of six children. After losing her father at age six, it was her mum that worked hard to be the father and the mother in her life. At age 2, She was separated from her twin sister. The sister was sent to their paternal grandmother while she was sent to their maternal granny in Kogi State although she got to see her twin because the distance was not that much. Eccabelle returned to Lagos at age 14 and finished her secondary school education at age 18. During her college education, she was very active in sports; she stood out not only because of her height but also her passion towards life in general. Even though being tall was great for the sport, it didn’t do well for her self-esteem as kids always made fun of her. Tagged silly nicknames because she was skinny and tall.

 

She became aware of her love for modelling and fashion from watching a lot of entertainment and fashion TV programmes. Considering the fact that most family folks have a wrong perception of the modelling industry, it was very difficult from the onset for her to make her family see reasons why she wanted to choose that career path. However, they say where there’s a will, there is a way. One of her elder ones supported her to go for auditions and casting calls. Because of her lack of experience, it was hard at the beginning but she was never one to give up, she knew deep inside she would make it. Unfortunately, in February 2015 a slight adversity occurred when she had an abnormal growth at the back of her left ear that left her in pains. After series of treatment, it was still there for months and that took a lot away from her self-confidence. She hardly went out and would cry for hours but by the end of May of that year, with no explanation, the pain stopped. With lots of encouragement from family and friends she got her mojo back. This lady that could not go out without covering up with scarfs, has gone ahead to be featured in several beauty shoots, hair campaigns and shows. With every shoot and audition, her passion grows stronger as she continues to pursue her dream of becoming one of the standout models from this country.

– Sesan Adeniji

Culled from Mystreetz Magazine( DJ Neptune edition)