True Beauty Is Within You, says Abang

Rosbarbara Awoshita Abang has worked with the likes of British super model Naomi Campbell as a model before developing a fashion line, La Maison Rosbarbara, for human hair extension and fashion accessories. In this interview with EDWIN USOBOH, she talks about her career, fashion secrets and obsessions.

What does La Maison Rosbarbara mean?

My name is Rose Barbara and La Maison means The House.  Therefore, La Maison Rosbarbara means The House of Rosebarbara, which represents what I stand for. We promote quality human hair extensions and fashion accessories including shoes and belts.

How did you get into modeling?

I began in 1995 when I was on holiday in Paris. My boyfriend then was into part-time modeling, which influenced me to also go for modeling as a vacation job. It was interesting and I became more involved in the profession. I have worked with the likes of Naomi Campbell, Diza Jeans, Dr. Damana. I also did some works with the Times magazine and New York Times magazine.

What was your parents’ reaction when you told them you wanted to become a model?

I was able to convince them about the profession, though my father would have loved me to become a pilot. My mum was always excited seeing my pictures in magazines. She was very proud of me.

Was she not worried that you would expose yourself? 

I modeled for Diza Jeans (bikini), and my parents did not see anything wrong in it. My mum knows what modeling entails.

Did you have any embarrassing moment while modeling?

When I started I never believed I was beautiful enough to be a model.  During my first bikini shoot, I tried to cover my body because it was embarrassing. I did not feel I had the right shape. But I have outgrown that now.

Why did you abandon modeling?

I am 36 years old now.  I wasn’t growing younger. I stopped modeling because I wanted to move to the next stage of my life. I later developed interest in human hair extensions, searching for the best quality hair products. I have my own brand for human hair extensions now.

Is is profitable doing business in Nigeria ?

I am from Cross River State in Boki Local Government Area but I was born in Lagos State. I established business in Nigeria because I am very patriotic about my country. It is not easy but I love my country and I have faith in God.

What are the challenges?

The regular challenges facing every businessperson in Nigeria are lack of electricity, bad transport system and many others. It’s a different environment for me after staying many years abroad. But my major challenge is the acceptability of my products in the country. We have invested in classy and trendy accessories for both genders. We supply silky-soft human hair extensions made of different colours but we are just penetrating the market.

What is your dream for La Maison Rosbarbara?

My dream is to see La Maison Rosbarbara in all the major fashion cities in the world. I have a store in Milano – Italy,  London and I just opened one in Lagos at 42, Raymond Njoku, off Awolowo Road, Ikoyi.

How would you describe the Nigerian fashion industry?

Nigerians love fashion. So it is becoming more competitive and interesting in the industry. But as long as I am into quality fashion items, I am cool with it.

What does fashion mean to you?

It  means style, passion and uniqueness.

Are you a fashion freak?

I think I am.

What are your fashion obsessions?

I love beautiful shoes and bags. I like high heels.

What about your favourite designers?

For local designs, I like Toju Foyeh. For my bra, I prefer Victoria Secret.

 Can you share your beauty routine with us?

I just maintain a healthy lifestyle. I have gained weight after child birth, so I try to keep fit.

 Your advice to  aspiring models?

Beauty is not mainly about your outer appearance but what is inside of you. True beauty is  within you.  I will advise them to follow their dreams. But like other professions, they must work hard, be sharp and remain focused .

What do you have to tell young girls who are abandoning  their education for modeling? 

Modeling is highly competitive. It is not everyone that goes into it that will make it. Education comes first. Your modeling career could stop anytime, but when you go to school, you can always get ahead in life.