Kareemah Umar – Lick your lips when you spot her in music videos
…2 years down the line, that is when I was in 200level. I met a clothing brand that wanted me to walk the ramp for them at their fashion show. Then my dream of becoming a model resurfaced, I knew I just have to be a model even if I’m a lawyer; I’ll still take modeling as either a hobby or side hustle
Words by Sesan Adeniji
Depending on which side of the narrative you stand, liberal or conservative, the significance of runway and hip-hop models can no longer be debated. The roles played by models are indirectly instrumental to the supply chain in every economy. Models like Kareemah Umar are key in the campaign-creative process that determines the bottom-line of most brands. From showing up in music videos to her in-your-face body-art photos, @careema_ as she’s known on instagram, is one model and video vixen ready to play in the big leagues.
“I’m from kogi state. I’m the 3rd of family of 6. I grew up in Kwara state where I attended O.B.H.S as a Boarder. Growing up in Kwara state with a dream of becoming a Model was almost impossible, because almost everyone around me was a disciplinarian, or at least wanted to do a 9-5 job, hence me believing my dream was not feasible. I had to opt for the next thing on my mind, being a lawyer.
During my senior secondary school days, I was an art student and even was known for being the best at English and literature-in-English. When I got admitted to Kogi State University as a law student, I was indifferent about it, but then at the same time wanted to do my best.
However, 2 years down the line, that is when I was in 200level. I met a clothing brand that wanted me to walk the ramp for them at their fashion show. Then my dream of becoming a model resurfaced, I knew I just have to be a model even if I’m a lawyer; I’ll still take modeling as either a hobby or side hustle.
Fast forward to 2016, one of my dancer friends that was in Lagos as at the time invited me to the “Dance Industry Night” then I got the opportunity to meet and rub minds with some people in the modeling industry. It was then I knew the only thing stopping me was myself.
After my graduation in 2017, I came back to Lagos to start my modeling career and thank God I maintained friendship with some of the models I met at “Dance Industry Night 2016” they told me “things they feel I need to know” I started attending auditions both online and offline. Some got back to me, some didn’t.
There was a time an artiste friend of mine hit me up for a video, (my first video actually). I was nervous but at the same time I was eager and according to the director “I did well for a first timer” and he’ll love to shoot with me again, and almost that how it’s been; I get video gigs from a video gig.
Although it’s not been easy because the modeling Industry has it dark side just like any industry. The insults from people outside the industry who don’t know modeling is a serious business, who think models are prostitutes. The sexual harassment sometimes, or even some not so nice treatments from the people we call Bosses. Or the financial reward as a model which isn’t all that pleasing. Which explains why most models have a side hustle (for example I run a budding cleaning company and also deal in premium fibre hair) .
I’m still exploring and willing to explore more aspects of modeling, such as Body art which I’m currently into, though frowned at by the society but I’m not giving up or backing out not now not ever.
When I say Body art, I mean an art expression whereby my body is being used as a canvass. Though I’ve had some people applaud some of my body paint pictures some of which are my clients (yeah, there are actually people that either buy the pictures or give me a contract to paint a particular thing on my body and have the picture as part of their website outlook) while some people condemn it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp0sw81hTSj/
Though I thank God for how far I’ve come but I’m nowhere near where I want to be and I sincerely hope a suitable work environment will be built around modeling industry in the nearest future so upcoming models like us will find it easy to have a breakthrough” – Kareemah Umar
Socials –
Instagram – @careema_
I so much beleive in you kareema. Always fun to be with. Can’t wait to see you at the top
Nice one careema, mixing ambition plus passion is not an easy task… You goal getting spirit is inspiring… Keep it up ma friend!!! Proud of you.
Awww…I’m so proud of you my friend and I believe in you…Go girl
Wow this is so beautiful , am very proud of you and I can say you are good woman with a lovely heart.. bless you
i am super proud of you buddy
Beautiful never relent ok❤️❤️
All the best to you in your model career .You will be successful.
Nicely written story… And inspiring too…
Nice one careema, mixing ambition plus passion is not an easy task… You goal getting spirit is inspiring… Keep it up ma friend!!! Proud of you.
That my baby. Big things ahead CARRIE
So much believe in you my girlfriend the sky’s your limit 😘😘
Loud one. GOD bless you sis
Brand Focused on securing the 💰
Way to go Careema… Keep shine 💫
#Wegoonworkb
You have been trying alot dear just keep trying and keep believing in what you are doing to me you really more than what you think and may God keep leading you nice one baby
Beautiful work of art. Art speaks where words are unable to explain. Keep doing what you are doing, the world will adjust for you..
Go girl, the sky is your starting point…being a model u have to be a role model..:I love the fact that u are a better brand ambassador…all the best dear❤️❤️❤️
Super proud of u baby…greater height hun
Life is adventure… Being focus is the key and never lose focus… let c how we can do biz together in 2019.
Nice one and inspiring
Go girl the sky is your starting point…I believe in you 💕
Careema is a diva.. Go on baby.. Keep shining its always in you… You are my own super model.. And i love u so much.. You have no clue.. I gatchyu baby… Anytime
Careema boo! Shine on… Baby you know i gatchyu for life! Ure my best canvas! I love you, more wins.. More money this year
First time I saw her and go through your page .. I saw something outstanding about her.. she so focus, so determine and she believes in herself no matter what people says about her.. and you going higher just keep believing in yourself..
Good
May Almighty Allah help you insha Allah bae