TALKING ISSUES

‘ I look forward to the time when more models/vixens will own at least a car! I mean what’s the point of being in over 30 music videos and still jumping buses? Lol’ – Jennifer Oseh

On Talking issues, I sat with Jennifer Oseh, popularly known in the Industry by the name LadyVhodka to discuss her take on Models and Video vixen industry in Nigeria.

‘The significance of our role in the industry cannot be overemphasized. I get DMs via Instagram & Snapchat quite often from young girls who want to be video vixens, reason being they believe you can get fame & money from the business; both are correct. Most people actually watch videos because of certain models. Basically this part of the industry is like a foundation for those that plan to branch out into acting, styling, music, etc. In the line of duty, you get to meet people already in those fields that are at the top of their game.’

Her views on the growth of the industry:

‘There is definitely growth in the industry. In 2016, we got more attention from the media. We really appreciate that. Dancers especially have been able to carve a niche for themselves, creating several dance groups in a bid to make more money & gain repute. I totally commend them. Directors as well have started flying models outside the country to shoot videos; it’s really a big deal! Years ago, that wasn’t the case so we bless God for growth. Slow & steady growth but there’s room for mega growth; bigger appreciation platforms. Maybe Headies awards, NEA’s ‘Video Vixen of the Year?’ I look forward to the time when more models/vixens will own at least a car! I mean what’s the point of being in over 30 music videos and still jumping buses? Lol’

On the challenges:

‘Authoritatively I can say that there is not enough value attached to the amount of hard work put in by models/vixens/dancers. When you hear the word ‘Video Vixen’ in Nigeria, the wrong impression comes to mind, which is why I never call myself a video vixen. There’s more to me. Let’s look at it from my perspective, what is the difference between an actress in a movie smoking and dancing on set & a video vixen? They are both playing to a written script. We are actors! We switch personalities on every different set, from a girl partying with her friends by the beach in a bikini to a woman getting married to the love of her life, wearing a wedding dress. A little respect to the name is necessary. We have earned it! In addition, I urge models/vixens/dancers to ‘NOT PLAY WITH THEIR MONEY’. Fame is great but fame doesn’t pay the bills! There’s a whole new generation ahead, let’s set the right foundation for those coming behind.’

Called from Mystreetz Magazine