Kami Susan Munderu

BMW: How long have you been in the modelling industry? When and how did you roll out?
Susan: Being a model has always been a childhood dream and only turned reality in High School when I did my first ever pageant but to my surprise i didn't win :( I came up as a runner up though but that couldn't stop the umph to continue. Its after joining college that I started professional modeling doing product promotions, Illustrations which are more or less Editorials and local fashion events earning myself a place with the Prestigious Surazuri Casting and Modeling Agency, like one year ago.

BMW: A lot of models' parents almost lose their hearts on learning that their kids are moving in on modelling! How did your parents react to your first go at modelling?... Have they been very supportive?
Susan: No parent would want to hear you're skiving lectures to do modeling because Education is important coz you don't want to be in some runway in a walking stick (its never been a fashion accessory anyway) coz modeling is just temporary, so I kept it on the low down til my very last days in college... Truth is, I did skive a couple of times! I can say my family has been considerably supportive owing to the fact that modeling is not really appreciated in Kenya.

BMW: As you escalate up the ladders, what assets do you believe set you apart from the models and give you the edge especially now that you came so close to winning a pageant?...
Susan: I appreciate the little things in life like compliments on my photos and work and as a person. When it's deserving, I also compliment models when we meet for auditions... funny how much jealousy is among models. I feel humbled by the emails I get from far and wide so I try to respond to as many emails as I can to avoid being a snob. You have to be very accommodating as a model but sadly not all models are. But u have to hold up your color sometimes cuz its a rough industry and people may take advantage of you.

BMW: How did Kenya's Top Models (KTM) start out and what are your objectives and accomplishments so far?
Susan: Cliché but necessity is the sole mother of invention. That's how KTM came to exist. It's an agency with a difference. I work personally and closely with Models and Photographers professionally for a common goal - to revitalize the Industry and stop model exploitation by having quality portfolios done for them at affordable rates. Portfolios are done by Dumelie Sven, a renowned New York Photographer to initiate market for our models both here and in New York.

BMW: In all our achievements, we come across challenges. Which ones have you met especially in an environment as yours and what keeps you inspired?
Susan: In an environment where models my height are not really appreciated and u get let down during audition and sometimes your not paid accordingly, my fans keep me inspired to keep me going regardless. Haters are also an incentive to work hard and prove them wrong.

BMW: What do you hope to accomplish by being on blackmenwomen.com and where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Susan: What more than to inspire black models of all shapes and sizes!

In ten years I hope to have established a successful agency and take modeling to newer heights in Kenya and God willing EA.

BMW: We notice your ambition is accompanied by warm character! BMW readers would love to know how you spend your free time.
Susan: I spend my free time sleeping... Why lie?... And bonding with people in my life.

BMW: What words do you have for aspiring models... especially those that are afraid of mixing modelling with school?
Susan: Aspiring models, 3 words, GO FOR IT! BUT remember BEAUTY AND BRAINS ARE THE BEST PAIRS. So keep books closer to you.