Some models throw themselves at men: Samkele Dube

Patience Muchemwa

“l have never faced any sexual harassment since I started my modelling career,” said Samkele Faith Dube.

The 22-year-old professional beauty therapist and model is the second born in a family of three girls. She did her Form One and Two at Oriel Girls High School in Chisipite, Harare before transferring to Rusununguko High School for her Ordinary Level. She resides in Damafalls Park.

Samkele gets support from her family to push in her modelling career.

A person’s decision to pursue modelling is often based on a variety of factors. Some are motivated by the creative and expressive aspects to the potential of being professional but Samkele was driven by the potential of making money out of modelling.

“I was drawn to the potential for financial success and fame to express my style though it was challenging.”

Samkele dismisses allegations of sexual harassment in the modelling industry saying that some of the ladies who report of being abused are the ones who throw themselves at men as they try to live a life which is above their standards. So, promoters and sponsors will end up taking advantage of them.

“l have never faced any sexual harassment, I stay within my lane and accept what I have to avoid the pressure of life.”

She said in modelling there are very few ways of making money so, models have to fight hard for them to earn.

“In my industry, we have few ways to make money, there are modelling contracts where you will get paid a flat fee for your services. The other way is through royalties where you receive a percentage of the profits made of the sales of your pictures or videos and through endorsement deals where you are paid to promote a product or brand.”

Outside modelling, Samkele is also interested in dancing and playing football.

“During my free time I go for soccer trainings, I was a soccer star during my school days. I also enjoy practising some dance challenges with my young sister, Musi at home.

Samkele sees herself becoming one of the top models in the whole world and to raise the Zimbabwe flag high in few years to come.

She advised young ladies who want to be in this industry to be true to themselves and have confidence.

“The piece of advice l can give to those who want to enter our industry is be true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in the glamour and glitz of the modelling world but it’s important to remember that your authenticity and individuality are what will set u apart from the crowd. Be confident about who you are and let that shine in your work.”

Samkele is the only member in her family, who decided to venture into modelling and beauty therapy in a family of geniuses.

“l come from a medium family, my mom is a labour practitioner and my dad is an engineer. My elder sister is a Human Resources Manager and my young sister is doing journalism and film.”

She enjoys her work, she is the one who does makeup for her mother and sisters when they are leaving for work sometimes she can be hired to do some beauty therapy during functions.

Currently, Samkele is studying for a Professional Learners Hunters and Guide certificate with Green Vision Trust.