I'm Special To Share Same Birth Date With President Goodluck Jonathan

Source: Alayande Dayo - Nigeriafilms.com

Having certified her talent and personality, the highly skillful Onwuka Lynda Chioma has emerged with those qualities that are well suited to represent Nigeria to bring unity, peace, international goodwill, cultural harmony and development, which overall is what Culture Pageants International stands for.

A keenly contest that brought together 360 contestants from different localities, Lynda who hails from Agulu in Anaocha L G A - Anambra state surpassed others when she emerged as a Nigerian representative for the glamorous international pageant. She recently reveals in an interview with us on why most aspiring youths see her as a role model.

What is your love for modeling like?

The love I have for modeling is unquantifiable. Some people in some quarters are wondering why I choose modeling out of all the sectors in the showbiz industry. Modeling has its own opportunity, and it's totally different and special from other major areas of the industry. There are lot of opportunities in the modelling industry than other sectors in the showbiz industry. It should not be degraded, because there are lot of unbridled potentials that we need to capture and show to the world.

Let's try as much as possible to understand that this very area of the industry worth its establishment. It has been in existence for decades, and it needs more hands that will embrace and support it.

How did you develop the passion for modeling?

Lovely! I would say I developed the passion for modelling when Agbani Darego won the Miss World Pageant. It really challenged me, and then I told myself that there is need for me to give this very profession a trial. As God has it, look at where we are today.

So far, how have you been handling the challenges?

Oh yeah! I must tell you that the challenges were quiet interesting experiences. It has thought me much about life and the many sides of it. Just name them that surrounds the modeling sector; from the modelling grooming, the food therapy, the body building, the charisma down to the morals, and getting the right agency to sign you up thereafter, it's even an enough challenge, and it is also awesome to be experienced.

Miss Culture Nigeria, what is it all about?

Well, Queen (Miss) Culture Nigeria is a trademark or brand that got established with the aim of promoting and showcasing of our rich cultural heritage to the world. For us the ambassadors, we have been faced with the task of retracing the steps of our youths into returning our cultural and traditional values.

It was created as a prestigious world brand/international event, bringing together representatives of a wide range of communities and cultures from all over the globe. We aim to share common values and foster international friendship and understanding.

Apart from a strong emphasis on unity, goodwill, culture and development protection programs and destinations promotion, the pageant is also focused on supporting environmental protection via strategized programs.

Have you been able to engage yourself with some laudable projects since your reign?

Sure! I have done a lot of projects since I emerged as the Queen. It's in line with the African-child projects. So far, I've done stuffs like: Mama Reach Out project, Malaria Roll Back project with SHF, Back to school project (where I donated some schooling materials to students and schools), Children quiz tagged: "I KNOW MY CULTURE," “Operation send a police child to school” and few others. Again, I have donated to orphanages, hospitals and lots more. Yet, I'm still counting, and will continue to do more for charity.

Have you also been engaged into public speaking and mentoring as a Queen?

Yes, and that was when I won. The first conference invitation I got came from British council, Accra- Ghana. It was during the International Conference on African Culture and Development (ICACD). I was the third key note speaker after the chairman's speech at the conference. So far, I have been getting one invite or the other for public speaking and mentoring. Yes, subsequent invites have been coming. Even, I just came back from a country where I also went for mentoring.

Do you have plans of floating your own modeling agency?

Sure, that will come when I hand over, because it will enable me groom other upcoming models who wish to wear our shoes one day. Without it, I don't think we will have people to take over our place when we will retire. Yes, I have it as a major plan to establish my own modeling agency.

Then, who would you say stepped out of the shoe for you?

In terms of being a cultural activist, Chief (Mrs.) Onyeka Owenu is more than a role model to me. Because she has this persistent spirit that keeps the fire burning for her, and if I must tell you, I would admit that still on her age, she is still on top of the game. Also inside the modeling domain, Agbani Darego is good for me because of her persevering spirit; and she is representing us well at the global level. I also act, so if I don't add Genevieve Nnaji to the list, I think it's incomplete.

How have you being managing the pressure of opposite sex's admirations?

One thing you must understand is that it is normal. It's actually so sure, and it's a big issue as long as you are a female who expects more from fame. So, such when you are a queen or public figure must come your way. People must admire you, especially from our men. For me, I create the boundary from the point of meeting so they don't over step into it.

Have you ever being sexually harassed before?

Not at all. I have not come across that because I went through the right channel. Also, I must say it was because I knew what I wanted.

So, what stage of relationship are you now?

(Smiling) Please, let's leave that area for now, it's private.

How do you feel being born in the same date with President Goodluck Jonathan?

I feel more special to be born on the same date with His Excellency, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. It is a sign of good wishes ahead. I must say it's a thing of joy. As Nigerians celebrate him, some people will also be somewhere celebrating me, because it's always a special day for special people. And I'm part of them.

Your next project, what is it going to be like?

My next project is going to be a mind-blowing one. Right now, I can't let it out for some reasons. The master plan is still undergoing some fixings with some professionals. It will create job opportunities, draw and attract tourists into our great country, even as it will increase our economy. So, we urge government, cooperate bodies and cultural activists to be part of this great historic project when it will be unveiled.

What would you want to be remembered for after your reign as a Queen?

I want to be remembered as a cultural activist. I would want my good works to speak for me. Let the smiles I give to people, and the selfless services to the less privileged speak for me when I will not be there again. Yes, let that that cannot be paid back to me speak for me. Let me be remembered as good and patriotic Nigerian.

What would you be expecting from your successor?

To my successor, soar higher than me, keep the flag flying than I did. Showcase our culture to the world and teach the younger ones the ways of the wise. Pass this to your successor and your successor to the next, and the world will continue to change.

What message do you have for Nigerians?

To all Nigerians out there, don't forget your origin, the norms, culture and tradition of your people. It helps to identify who you are and where you are coming from. Let's also pass to our generation a banner without stain, which in future global icons will rise from our Nation.