Nokuthula “Thuli” Masilela is the first South African model to be signed by the Australian fashion and accessories brand, Forever New.
Their Summer 2017 campaign celebrates the feminine beauty of women, therefore Masilela’s striking features, elegance and grace made for an easy choice, says Dianri Luttig, marketing manager for Forever New SA.
“We’re thrilled to have her on board - her vivacious personality, poise and style epitomise the Forever New brand,” says Luttig.
Speaking about her career and being the face of the internationally known fashion outlet, Masilela said: “It’s truly an amazing experienced and it will have a positive impact on my modelling career.”
Elegant and poised, 23-year-old Thuli says she always knew she wanted to be a model. (Pic: Johan Venter)
The 23-year-old is proud to be a part of the Forever New family and says South African women can now relate to the brand better having one of their own faces representing it.
Did you always want to be a model?
Since high school my classmates called me a supermodel. I knew that after matric I would pursue a career in modelling. My family wouldn’t allow it while I was still in school. In 2013-2014 I searched for an agency and did some extensive research on modelling agencies. I applied and knocked on every door but got rejected many times. This taught me that rejection was part of the business and that every great model experienced difficult times before reaching supermodel status. I faced many challenges and was close to losing hope when I contacted Adeola Ariyo, a brand ambassador for Elizabeth Arden Africa. She motivated me to follow my dreams and she arranged a meeting with Boss Models where I got signed up.
How did you feel when you received the news that you were selected as the face of the brand?
Words cannot describe how I felt when I received the news. I was extremely excited and had mixed emotions. I cried and it was a beautiful moment. I didn’t know who to call first because that moment was just surreal. I just wanted to be alone first and wait for the next day before I told everyone because it hadn’t sunk in yet. It was a dream come true.”
Thuli having her make-up done for the Forever New shoot in Australia. (Pic: Supplied)
What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy being in front of the camera. I change completely. I become confident and I always feel beautiful in front of the lens. It’s an amazing feeling. I also enjoy changing into different outfits. It makes me feel like a doll and that I’m playing dress-up. I also love meeting new people, making memories and the travelling that comes with the job.
What advice would you offer young girls wanting to pursue a career in modelling?
Anything is possible. Don’t sleep on your dreams and never give up on your talent. Always have a second plan but, most importantly, education is essential.
What did you enjoy most about your time in Australia?
When I landed in Sydney, it was very cold and windy and I headed down to Circular Quay, the Braamfontein of Sydney, and was fascinated by the artworks. I enjoyed walking to the Opera House which was walking distance from my hotel, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. I had an unforgettable experience and Sydney is undoubtedly a beautiful city. The Forever New family in Australia was very welcoming. It didn’t feel like I was working and I had fun most of the time. The first shoot was at Maroubra Beach and the second was in the CBD.