Interview with Charlene Dobbs
Charlene: Born and raised in London, in the UK.
What is your ethnic background?
Charlene: My entire family is Jamaican and proud!
How did you get started in modeling?
Charlene: When I was 19 years old, I done a photo shoot with my cousin for her birthday in a London photography studio, but I loved it so much that it left me wanting more! I took an instant interest and from that point I tried to do more photo shoots to build up a portfolio. I experimented with themes, colours and make-up until I started getting approached by photographers. I networked well until I began to get the vital exposure that I needed.
Do you have any role models?
Charlene: I would have to say Tyra Banks as not only was she one of the first black supermodels, but she also successfully branched away from the runway with America's Next Top model and her chatshow (The Tyra Banks show). Historical figures such as Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama also inspire me as they stand as examples of people who have defined and implemented their dream successfully.
What keeps you motivated?
Charlene: My personal drive to succeed in life! I refuse to fail in anything that I do. It's a huge bonus when you're able to get paid for what you enjoy. Plus I aim to work relentlessly until I give my family the good life they deserve.
Whats more important? A sexy pair of shoes or a hot bag.
Charlene: Definately a hot bag...I buy way too many of them!
What do you think is your best physical attribute?
Charlene: Hmm.…I'd have to say my eyes and boobs.
What is your fashion style? How do you dress regularly?
Charlene: I dress quite sexy on an everyday basis. I can't help it, I enjoy getting dressed up! On a normal day you'd probably see me in a low cut top and some fitted jeans, and on a night out I would typically wear a little dress.
What are some of you current projects?
Charlene: I'm continuing to get booked for modelling projects - from photoshoots and fashion shows, to music videos and promotional work, I'm enjoying it all. I'm also currently involved in Urban Fashion Week, which happens annually in the States. However, this is the first time one will be done in the UK so i'm glad to be a part of it. There's much more things to come!
What are some of your future goals?
Charlene: I want to be financially secure from the job that I enjoy. I'm also qualified in Marketing so there are ideas of a lingerie brand being released in the UK in the future.
How would you best describe your personality?
Charlene: I would describe myself as a go-getter...I ensure that I live life to the fullest and believe that anything you want in life can be achieved if you put the work in. Ambition is vital to good quality life! I'm a firm believer of the saying 'Never judge a book by its cover' and therefore particularly proud of earning my Marketing and Computing Degree. I'm a bubbly, outgoing and down to earth girl who's always up for a laugh. I love embracing new situations and love being me!
What is the best/most memorable job you have been on?
Charlene: I have two...a fashion show that I did in London which featured the nation's top retailers. I hadn’t given much thought to the runway until the opportunity arose, but I really enjoyed it. Having a different look with every outfit whilst being cheered on by my family and friends was definitely memorable! Another best moment was my photo shoot in Miami this year. It took place on Hibiscus Island and to this date has been my best shoot location so far…can I come back please?! Working with an overseas photographer also gave me an insight into the American modelling industry.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
Charlene: Haha...I would be a kitten because they're cute, independent and playful.
Thank you Charlene!
