I ditched engineering for the catwalk - Egide Tuyishime

Egide Tuyishime’s first foray into the world of male modeling came in November 2012, when he took part in the Mr. and Miss University pageant as a student at the Umutara Polytechnic in Nyagatare. After winning the Mr. University crown, which came with a cash prize of Rwf 80.000 and a few complimentary goodies, the then Civil Engineering student made up his mind to pursue modeling after his graduation. He recently graduated from Engineering school, but other than go find work in an architectural firm, he took to the catwalk. Today, he is a freelance model affiliated to different local fashion houses. The spokesperson for the models who will take part in this year’s Kigali Fashion Week that runs from November 4-8 2013 had a chat with Moses Opobo …What was the Mr. University pageant that you won last year all about, and how did you emerge winner?The contest was about getting a male model that could represent the university (Umutara Polytechnic) at other inter-university modeling contests. They were looking for casting ability, body physique, and aptitude. How did your win affect your lifestyle at the university?Life had to change. Before, I would go to all the small dingy bars around the university to drink with friends. After winning the contest, I became more conscious about my image. How did you end up in Kigali Fashion Week?After winning the university pageant, I was encouraged by many people to cast at a bigger level. In December last year, I went and did pre-casting for the first edition of the Kigali Fashion Week. I showcased clothes from different designers, and have never looked back since. How would you describe your personal style?That definitely has to be fitting wear. Physically, I look tough, but not very tough, because if I became any tighter than this, I would cease to be a model and become a bouncer. How do you manage to maintain a 6-pack?I do so by going to the gym five days a week. I spend about three hours on average with each visit, but on days when I have time on my hands, I can go for six hours. In international modeling, a 6-pack is an absolute must. I worked hard in the gym for a whole year to achieve it. What particular exercises do you do for the 6-pack?I work my biceps, legs, arms, chest, back, and shoulders. If I miss the gym, I compensate for it with simple push-ups at the gym. Where do you work out?Be Fit Gym at the Amahoro Stadium.Are you in a relationship?Not yet. Unfortunately, most girls these days treasure money over love. Your ideal woman?She would have to be a model, like me.Where do you shop for your designs?I have suppliers who deliver orders at home. I can’t go shopping downtown because I would attract unnecessary attention, and I don’t like shopping in up market boutiques because they are expensive but the quality is mediocre. Your best moments?When I’m casting on stage, and people are watching me. When people clap for me, I forget all the energy I lost in the gym.