FASHION PASSION: STRIDES WITH KEVIN “JACKAL” MUTUNGA

His first stride into modelling was a success. He has won tags since then. Kelvin “Jackal” Mutunga is an epitome of follow-your-passion. He shares his journey of modelling and his prospects of the industry.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Kelvin Mutunga Muithya but mostly known by the name Jackal, 3rd year student at Murang’a University taking Bsc.Applied statistics with programming. I am a designer, a model and a model trainer.
Mister Murang’a University 2020/2021
Mister kitui liberty 2018/2019
Mister Murang’a Catholic Action 2017/2018
I do both high fashion modeling and runway modeling. I believe in fashion because once dressed in a nice attire, you always feel confident about yourself.

When did you start modelling?

I started modeling in the year 2017 when I joined University. I had the passion in modeling while I was in high school but my old man told me to finish up with high school then he will support me when I join campus. The year 2017 was my first time on the runway in our church group that is Murang’a Catholic Action and fortunately I won the title and then I was crowned.

Whom do you look upto?

I look upto my role model, Nyle DiMarco. He is a deaf model who rose to fame when he was crowned “America’s Next Top Model,” once again proved that not only can Deaf people do anything, but they can look amazing doing it. He also went a step ahead and started the deaf foundation to help the deaf in the world.

What is the biggest lesson about modelling that you have learnt since you started modelling?

I have learned a lot. In modelling, competition is always stiff. You have to work extra hard and give the best because every competitor is smart. Two, you should be ready to accept a lose and try to be the best in the next event. I have learnt to never lose hope. Lastly, in life nothing comes in a silver plate.

What do you do apart from modelling?

Apart from modelling, I create applications and game codes. I also play tennis when am neither modelling nor coding.

Where do you see Kenyan fashion industry in the next 5 years?

In the next five years kenyan fashion industry will have grown with a big margin. By checking the statistics of modeling in the counties, shows and pageants have increased. Youths are serious and passionate about modelling and fashion as a whole. Clearly, in future we will have a big number that supports fashion and modeling industry in Kenya.

How has the pandemic affected your passion?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a lot of boredom because it has brought a halt to the normal life that we were used to. There are no events. Currently, modelling contests are done online which is not as interesting as a live Event.

If you had a message to the younger you, what would it be?

“Be negative about negativity” so everything new you encounter try to be positive and work hard to achieve the goal. Remember life is like sugarcane it’s hard and sweet so better try your best and push up to your ethos. Life is inevitable and it can eradicate you. If you achieve your goals try to look where you came from and give back to the society and that is the cycle of life NEVER FORGET.

At one point in life, you will grow old, what are your plans after modelling?

My plans are to support the fashion industry by starting my own modelling agency and support the talented youths.The other thing I would try to build up a foundation for the disabled and help them out with their needs like my role model.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My grandpa’s advice to me was success is like pregnancy; everyone congratulates you and never knows how many times you been fucked up. Whatever comes, strike and overcome it.