Did you see the latest ad campaign from Fashion Fair? It is absolutely beautiful and very different from anything Fashion Fair has done in the past. I was really curious about the face behind the campaign and really excited to interview Nassalli exclusively for my blog. We spoke about family, her hairstyle and future career goals and aspirations.
RO: Tell me about your family.
NK: My family is from Uganda and has a rich history there. Some of my family members have been in governmental positions. In fact, some of my family members are a part of the Ugandan Association here in the US, they are very excited and proud of me. My family was familiar with Fashion Fair prior to my ad. Upon seeing my face in the ad they became very emotional. There have been many tears and phone calls from my parents.
RO :What was it like making the transition from Uganda to the US?
NK: When I came to the states I felt different because of my African ancestry. I felt and continue to feel like I stand out in a crowd.
RO: How long have you been wearing your current look and what inspired you to cut your hair off?
NK: I have been wearing my hair bald for almost a year. Prior to shaving it off I wore weaves a lot. When I cut my hair I felt like I was in a different place in my life, I wanted to embrace who I was as a woman. This meant accepting my size, height and beauty. Cutting my hair was a part of this process. It was a very liberating feeling. I was also inspired by seeing other African women with short hair.
RO: What are some of the reactions you get?
NK: I get mixed reactions. Children often stare because they are curious about seeing a woman with a bald head. I have also been hearing from people who are not used to seeing someone who looks likes me and some have expressed thinking “It’s about time!” It’s like a waiting to exhale moment. I love the response but I don’t want to be known as the model with no hair or the model from Uganda. I just want to represent women everywhere.
RO: What was it like being discovered by Desiree Rogers of Johnson Publishing Co?
NK: I met Ms. Rogers while working at Starbucks in L.A I always did my best to represent the company well and always kept in mind that you never know who you are speaking to. It is my goal to always make a lasting impression.
RO: What was the trip to Chicago like for shooting the ad?
NK: My trip to Chicago was my first time traveling to the windy city. I had a prayer journal that I’d been writing in for years. I wrote that I wanted to be the face of an African-American cosmetic line and also go to Harpo Studios. To see the dream come true in one day was amazing.
RO: What was the makeup like for the day of shoot?
NK: Delissa Lee was my personal Makeup Artist she selected my perfect shade in Enduring Ebony. It has such a light texture and matched perfectly so I felt like I had nothing on my skin.
RO: Are you still working at Starbucks?
NK: No, I am working at a hotel in the same area. This is my season, and many doors are opening. I like where I am and I am excited about what is to come.
RO: What are some of your future plans, do you want to do more print or runway modeling?
NK: I want to explore all opportunities. When I am modeling, I feel like I am walking on sunshine! This is what I love to do.
Nassali thanks so much for the interview, I will be looking for you on the runways on New York Fashion Week in the very near future:)
