Some creatives move quietly but still leave a strong impression wherever they appear, and Àjíké is one of them. After months of trying to get her on the Creator Spotlight series, we finally sat down with her for this edition and honestly, it was worth the wait.
A rising model with an already impressive portfolio, she has become a familiar face within the campers community, especially after walking the Greencamp Festival stage last year. But beyond the images, shoots and campaigns, we were more interested in the story behind the journey. Modeling is one of those creative paths people often admire from a distance without fully understanding what the process actually looks like, especially in its early stages when everything is still raw and uncertain.
In this conversation, Àjíké speaks on identity, upbringing, ambition, navigating the modeling scene, and the people quietly supporting her journey behind the scenes. An honest glimpse into the journey of a creative finding her rhythm as she evolves.
Q: Kindly introduce yourself, and tell us what you like to be called?
Hii green camp! I’m Àjíké, you can call me Àjíké or AJ.
Q: Where were you born and raised, and how did that environment shape you?
I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. My living environment didn’t shape me, I wouldn’t say it did. My parents ensured my siblings I attained standard primary & secondary knowledge. We attended Good Shepherd Schools, a comprehensive institution. That, was a platform to gain knowledge & insights on other backgrounds. Attending such school made me want to attain more. I’d say it birthed the drive in me.
Q: At what point did modeling come into your life? Was it something you intentionally pursued, or did it find you?
Telling this bit warms my heart always. Modeling is an art I’ve always wanted to be a part of since I was little. My uncle used to be a photographer & he’s been a fashion designer for over 15 years. He’d sew pieces for my siblings & I & also have us model them for him. His promise to have me walk the runway in one of his pieces made me stick to my dream.
I got older, tried to pursue the art, went through the wrong medium & I slowly began to lose interest. Fortunately for me, after about 4 years, it found me and to say the least, it’s been the most interesting and amazing journey. I’m exceptionally grateful for how far I’ve come.
Q: How would you describe your journey so far?
It’s been amazing, interesting, impactful & extremely eye opening.
Q: Looking back, what would you consider your biggest or most defining gig to date?
A campaign for a UK-based clothing brand with Ms Danielle Mbonu as the creative director.
Q: Are you currently signed to an agency, or working independently?
I’m neither signed to an agency nor can I say fully that I work independently. There are couple individuals behind Àjíké, the model. Not agents but very valuable individuals. I appreciate them.
Q: How do you usually land your gigs? Is it through agencies, direct outreach, social media, or word of mouth?
Through various mediums. Social media & referrals mostly.
Q: Outside of modeling, what other things are you into, creatively or professionally?
I’m a Chef.
Q: If modeling wasn’t an option, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
I’d probably be deep into Real Estate management now.
Q: Was there a particular shoot that made you feel like, “Yeah, this is for me”? If yes, tell us about it.
It was my very first gig. I was booked to come on set as a vixen for Serotonin’s “May 10th” visuals. It was all so new but natural and the compliments? Out of this world to me. They meant so much to me and it made me hold on & push to start this fully. I was referred and I remain forever grateful to this person.
Q: What’s one part of modeling you don’t enjoy as much as people might expect?
Mm, the things I don’t enjoy are the things people would expect to not be enjoyed. Ranging from delay on set to spillovers.
Q: Who are three photographers in the scene right now whose work you really respect?
Unavailable Photographer, Peeko HD & Daniel Obasi.
Q: Which three Nigerian underground artists have caught your attention recently?
Paxslim, Maison2500 & Txmmyily.
Q: What are your top five Nigerian streetwear brands right now?
Triads, Severe Nature, Snug Wurld, Dolore Inc. & Nine.
Q: How would you describe your personal style, both on and off set?
Mm, my style is undefined. I dress to fit my mood.
Q: How do you approach a shoot when you step on set? What’s your process like?
I try to gauge the mood for the shoot & get right into it. I’m very jovial and can be reserved as well, it solely depends on the atmosphere. I act in accordance but when it’s time to get work done, best believe I’d get right into it.
Q: What do you think people misunderstand most about modeling?
Mm.. the concept of being tall and skinny. While this is the standard widely recognized requirement, the modern industry is diversifying, with more space for petite, plus-size, and diverse body types, particularly in commercial, catalog, and fit modeling. So no, you don’t have to be tall & skinny to become a professional model.
Q: Is there a specific brand or designer you’d love to work with?
Although I’ve been graced with working with amazing brands & designers, I’m yet to find a brand that truly resonates with my being. By this, I mean I’m yet to see a piece I deeply connect with, one that makes me say, “yes, this is a reflection of me” or truly conveys who Àjíké is. I understand that I’m probably yet to come in contact with such a piece and, in the long run, I might even be tasked with creating those pieces myself.
Q: What’s the bigger picture for you when it comes to modeling?
Honestly, I see myself as more than just a face in a photo. For me, it’s becoming a pro at the craft side of things. Knowing how to move and take direction so well that I make the photographer’s job easier. I want to be that person creative teams love having on set because they know I’ll help them get the perfect shot every time.