Oluchi Onweagba facts for kids

Oluchi Onweagba-Orlandi (born August 1, 1980) is a famous Nigerian model. She lives in New York City. Oluchi grew up in the suburbs of Lagos, Nigeria. When she was 16, she won a big modeling contest called "The Face of Africa."

Early Life and Discovery

Oluchi Onweagba was born in Isuikwuato, Abia State. She grew up in the busy suburbs of Lagos, Nigeria. She lived with her two brothers and sisters. Her father worked for the government, and her mother was a nurse.

How Oluchi Started Modeling

In 1997, a family friend suggested Oluchi try out for "The Face of Africa" contest. This was held at the M-Net office in Victoria Island, Lagos. Even though she didn't know much about fashion or modeling, she decided to try.

With support from her family, she entered the competition in 1998. This was the first-ever modeling contest for the whole continent of Africa. It was organized by the South African TV channel M-Net and Elite Model Management. Oluchi won the competition! Soon after, she moved to New York City to start her modeling career.

Oluchi's Modeling Career

After moving to New York City, Oluchi became a very successful model. She appeared in many top fashion magazines. These included American and Italian Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Marie Claire. She also appeared in Allure, Nylon, and W.

Magazine Covers and Fashion Shows

Oluchi has been on the covers of many magazines. Some of these are Italian Vogue, Elle, i-D, and Pop. She also appeared on Untold and Surface.

She has walked the runway for many famous fashion designers. These include Gucci, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, and Christian Dior. She also modeled for Givenchy, Giorgio Armani, and Diane Von Furstenberg.

Advertising Campaigns and Collaborations

Oluchi has been in many advertising campaigns. She worked for big brands like Lancôme, Ann Taylor, and Clinique. She also appeared in ads for Nordstrom, Macy's, Banana Republic, and Gap. Oluchi worked with Victoria's Secret for six years. She walked in their famous annual fashion show.

She has also worked with well-known photographers. These include Steven Meisel, Nick Knight, and Patrick Demarchelier.

Beyond Modeling: A Role Model

Oluchi is not just a model; she also helps others. She wants to be a role model for young people in Nigeria. She especially wants to inspire young girls. She volunteers her time for groups like LEAP Africa and NIPRO. These groups help young people learn about business. Oluchi also continued her education in New York City.

After her first modeling contract ended, Oluchi signed with DNA Model Management. She has appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue three times. In 2016, she became an ambassador for "Scent of Africa."

In 2008, Oluchi started her own modeling agency in South Africa. It is called OModel Africa. It has offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The winner of the 2008 M-Net Face of Africa contest, Kate Tachie-Menson, received a modeling contract from OModel Africa. In 2013, Oluchi became the host and head judge of Africa's Next Top Model.

Personal Life

Oluchi's first name comes from the Igbo language. It means "God's work."

In 2006, Oluchi married Luca Orlandi. He is an Italian fashion designer and a long-time friend. They have two sons and live in New York. Their son Ugo Ugochukwu is a talented kart racer. He is part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme. In 2020, he won the FIA European junior karting championship.

See also

In Spanish: Oluchi Onweagba para niños