Brenda Ojunga

BMW: Motherland KENYA! Tell us about Brenda growing up and how she ended up in Houston Texas.

Brenda: Yes indeed. Proudly Kenyan. I moved to America when I was 17. Growing up in Kenya was the best time period of my life. Most of my life in Kenya, I attended girls' boarding schools and I remember I had to take cold showers. I scream when cold water gets on my skin. Anyway, my family moved to Arlington, Texas, to start a new life after my dad passed away. I finally moved to Houston to attend Pharmacy school.

BMW: BMW found out that there are two Ojungas in the fashion industry and actually the other party is your sister Rachel. It's rare to find two sisters modeling at the same time.

Brenda: Wow! I see you have been digging into my family's business. Actually, I am the only one in my family in the fashion industry but I do have cousins who are very active in the industry, and yes one of their names is Rachel. We treat each other well, except when we are around each other's shoes (we all wear the same size). It's like a Jerry Springer show for shoes except we aren't missing any teeth or any crazy stuff like that.

BMW: From your profile it seems you posses a strong physique that should project you into a successful professional model... Do you believe it's your strongest asset? Or tell us what you think sets you out from the others.

Brenda: Thank you. I am very flattered. I believe that a person's physique cannot be their strongest asset because people have different opinions on beauty. My strongest asset, most people think it's my butt. I guess I can't appreciate my butt as much as they do cause I am always sitting on it... lol. Seriously, my strongest asset has to be my drive. When I want something, I put my all to get it. I don't reach for the sky. I reach for the stars.

BMW: Have you actually ever thought of doing some fashion gigs in Nairobi soon or in the near future?

Brenda: I would love to do some gigs in Nairobi. I'm actually hoping to do so end of this year during my visit. My agency has that ball rolling so wish me the best. I did visit Kenya last summer and it was like falling in love. Honestly it felt like a part of me got restored. I love Kenya so much. It's home.

BMW: What have been your accomplishments so far and what projects are you partaking at present?

Brenda: I did plenty of shows in Dallas but I want to do more shows in Kenya. For the time being I am working on the launching of my T-shirt line, ETANA. The website is www.ETTANA.com. The t-shirts have a very strong Kenyan influence and I'm working with one of the best creative directors, Marvin Ojunga. I am hoping to have my first fashion show by next summer and then we can focus expanding the line. Oh let me not forget this or my mum will spank me - I am also in Pharmacy school and already have an rPhT (Registered Pharmacy Technician) license and currently practicing.

BMW: What challenges have you come across in this industry?

Brenda: It's always been the same story, "You have a big butt and thighs." "If you loose a few inches you'll be perfect." I just laugh at such comments because there is no way I would never even consider loosing inches of my butt or thighs. I'm not saying I am perfect but I have to be comfortable with myself at all times. Yes, I have lost opportunities because of that but when you start changing into what other people want you to be, you will the most unhappy person. I love my curves. Fat butt, thighs and all... lol.

BMW: Models tend to have a strict diet. What does your diet include? Any specific cravings?

Brenda: Diet? Hate that word. I don't even like salads... lol. I have no diet. I try to eat as much organic foods vs processed foods. Yes... it costs more but trust me, it is worth it. You also have to say be careful of what you eat 4-6 hrs before you sleep. It will reflect on you. And don't starve yourself, that slows your metabolism. My cravings are so random but at the top of my list, ice cream, bbq, milk shakes, sushi, hot bread... I am getting hungry.

BMW: Anything else you're into besides modeling and pharmacy?

Brenda: I love being outdoors, a lot. Fishing, horse back riding, tag football... name it, I'll do it. I love a challenge. I have a lot of energy. I am like an energizer bunny. I just keep going, and going and going... you get the picture.

BMW: Are you married... boyfriend, kids? What kind of man gets Brenda's attention?

Brenda: None of the above. Hopefully one day. He has to be very honest and very hardworking. Sexy doesn't hurt either.

BMW: What do you think about Africans having the notion that Obama will alleviate them from poverty especially given the fact that you share the same roots with him and it's said that Kenyans strongly "believe" in him?

Brenda: Obama, Obama. That man is viewed as a savior to man. As far as Africans having the notion of Obama saving them from poverty, they need to stop. Obama is the United States President... emphasis on United States, and also a citizen of America. He doesn't live in Africa. Africans should look into solving their own problems before looking unto others. No one wants to help anyone who doesn't help himself or herself. Africa has so much in resources, and it's such a shame that other countries benefit the most from them. I do believe Obama will bring a big change in a good way, and will be one of the best Presidents America has had.

BMW: Any last words?

Brenda: Yes, I'm a blabber mouth... lol. Seriously, thanks for having me. Thanks to all who read this interview. I would say free t-shirts for all but I am still hustling. Thanks again, and God bless.