A JOURNEY BEYOND BEAUTY
- Editorial
- 22 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By Doreen Ndanu
What if modelling was not only about fashion and beauty, but also protecting the environment and inspiring communities? For joy, modelling has been a meaningful journey that goes beyond the runway.
WinnieJoy is a third year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Community Development. Her journey into modelling started when she was still in class six. During her free time at school, she and her classmates would organize small “catwalks” in class where the other students acted as her judges. What started as a fun activity ,slowly grew into something bigger. Joy was also inspired by fashion shows she watched on television. Seeing professional models walk confidently on the runway made her dream of becoming one of them someday.
As she grew older, people often noticed the way she carried herself. Her walking style and confidence made many assume that she was already a professional model. During her photoshoots, photographers would ask her if she’s a model because of how naturally she posed. These moments motivated her even more to pursue modelling seriously.
Although she loved fashion, joy chose to study Community Development instead of Fashion and Design. She believed that her passion was not only about fashion but also about serving and helping the community. Through modelling, she wanted to create awareness about environmental conservation, something that had also been influenced by her father, who was an environmental conservertist. She believes modelling gives her a voice and a platform to advocate for protecting nature.
Like many dreams, Joy’s journey has not been without challenges. At one point, she tried to join an international runway competition but could not qualify because of her height. However, she did not allow this setback to discourage her. Instead, she focused on improving herself and continuing to grow in the modelling industry.
Balancing her studies and modelling career has not been very difficult for her because she organizes her time well. Most of her classes run from Monday to Thursday, which allows her to dedicate other time to modelling activities and environmental projects. As a growing model, she actively participates in environmental conservation efforts and uses her platform to raise awareness about protecting nature.
Joy has also achieved several milestones along the way. She once participated in the competition during World Environment Day, sponsored by the Kenya Giraffe Centre, where she worked with other people to promote environmental awareness. She managed to finish as the First Runners up during that competition. She also owns Miss Nkondi title.
Behind her success are people who have guided and inspired her. Joy speaks highly of her mentor, a county Director of Education in Thika, who has supported her throughout her modelling and educational journey. She also looks up to Ajuma, a well-known African Model from Nairobi, whose story encourages her to keep pushing forward.
Through her experiences, joy has learned important lessons about modelling and life. She believes that beauty alone is not enough. Discipline, confidence, empathy, and self-belief are essential qualities for anyone who wants to succeed. She also advises upcoming models not to fear challenges but to face them bravely and believe in themselves. Beyond modelling, joy hopes to mentor young girls and help them build confidence and self-esteem.
One of the most memorable moments in her modelling journey happened during a runway event where the audience judged the contestants. Although she felt that the judging was not entirely fair, she accepted the outcome with maturity. Instead of giving up, she gathered her courage and promised herself to do even better next time.
For Joy, modelling is not just about walking on a runway, it’s about confidence, purpose and using her voice to make a difference. And as she continues her journey, she walks not only with style but also with a mission -to inspire others and protect the environment.
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