Modelling makes Maboko tick
Promote IT studio, founded by Mojalefa Maboko, and is an modelling agency that specialises in promoting models in and around Polokwane.
Vella Nyoni
LIMPOPO – WHEN one thinks of modelling, the names Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell definitely translate success.
Most of the world’s well-known supermodels are usually from the US or Europe. In Africa, modelling has long been a career that has been underplayed. This is especially true in South Africa in developing provinces such as Limpopo.
Promote IT studio is, however, trying to even the odds. It was founded in 2013 by Mojalefa Maboko, and is a company that specialises in modelling for hopefuls in and around Polokwane. The studio, which is located in the central business district, is a safe haven for aspiring models.
Growing up in Makotopong village, Mojalefa says he started the company because there was a lack of modelling agencies in Polokwane. “I am passionate about this industry because I myself have always wanted to do modelling. Because of a lack of resources I couldn’t pursue it. So this is the reason I decided to help others go after their dreams,” Mojalefa says.
The agency trains aspiring models how to pose for the camera and walk the runway. It also assists them to compile their portfolios. the models with their runway walks, they assist them to make portfolios and also teach them about how to pose in front of the camera.
According to Mojalefa they also do advertising for designers and organise events. He says he was very proud of the fashion show they held in 2013. “It went very well and I was proud of what we had achieved,” Mojalefa says.
Some of the challenges he faces are when he approaches big retail companies and he is referred to their head office, which often turn out to be as far away as Cape Town. “Another challenge is when we plan street fashion-shows and we have to get the municipality on board. We are meet with a lot of red tape and it becomes difficult to make these things happen,” he says.
His future plans are to have at least 40 models working in his company and to own big corporate offices. They are currently planning another street fashion-show on October 10 to take place on the grounds of the Jack Botes Hall in Church Street in Polokwane. He says they will bring together young male and female fashion designers and models to celebrate their love for fashion.
His advice to aspiring models: “If you are passionate about modelling, have patience and know that your day will come. Work hard and be willing to learn”.
