Models’ scouting stories are usually quite serendipitous, but Nigerian model Precious Kevin‘s story is not only moving but kismet. Just as the world around her seemed to be crumbling, her mother agent crossed her paths, and before she knew it, she was signed and made her debut for Simone Rocha’s F/W 20 show. The Hot Lister has locked down five magazine covers, was featured in Mugler’s F/W 21 and Christopher John Rogers Collection 009 lookbooks, and has worked with Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, Nadine Ijewere, and Campbell Addy. After her London Fashion Week showings, Models.com spoke to the ascending model about how she got her first start in the industry, making it to our Hot List rankings, and why one of her favorite songs to begin the workday is about being a billionaire.
How were you first scouted?
I was scouted on the street of Ikate Lagos, Nigeria, on my way home from church. I was walking home broken; it was one of the moments when I gave up on everything and thought of the worst things. I felt like God had forgotten about my family and me. Then all of a sudden I met my mother agent, Aisha Bello. She gave me her card and told me to call her when I was ready to join the industry, so the next day I called her and she signed me to Star Models Africa and gave me a chance.
Take us back to your Simone Rocha debut before lockdown, how was your first runway experience and your first season walking the level of shows you booked?
My first show experience was such a memorable time; I was so nervous because I’d never walked a show before. I didn’t know what to expect, my legs were shaking, but in the end, I was alright and I did it!
Looking back at the past year, despite the global pandemic, you were still able to book key clients, cementing a spot on Models.com’s Hot List. How have you been able to motivate yourself in your career?
Being where I am today within a short period it’s still a big shock to me. I’ve experienced many difficulties that I felt like giving up sometimes, but I thank God for how far I’ve come. My biggest motivation is my family; when I look at them I am proud of myself and also push myself to do more.
What is one thing you have to do before you start a workday and why?
I like to listen to one particular song from an artist in Nigeria, Billionaire by Teni because when I was leaving my country for the first time, I didn’t have any money. The last money my mum had was 2,000 Naira which is not even 5 dollars or pounds. She gave it to me and said “use it to get food at the airport if you become hungry” and I cried and promised her I was going to be a billionaire. That song happened to be playing in the compound at the same time we had that conversation, so I downloaded it and played it every time before I went on set as a daily reminder.
You walked for Mugler’s F/W 21 show and were featured in the lookbook. How was the experience of working with Casey Cadwallader?
Walking for Mugler with Casey Cadwallader was a very memorable event last year. Casey was so sweet, always making sure we were alright every minute; he also played Nigerian songs which made me feel more comfortable on set. Mugler is one of my favorite brands, so I was happy throughout.
What has been your most memorable moment on set so far?
I was fitting for a Mugler lookbook, and my childhood best friend called me and told me she was in labor and I promised her I was going to be on the phone until the baby came, and Casey gave me some time to talk to her till she gave birth, that was one of the most memorable moments on set.
What’s one thing people may be surprised to find out about you?
It always comes as a surprise when I mention that I’m a mom. I’m proud of it, l love my baby boy.
How was it working with Amy Troost on your latest Harper’s Bazaar editorial that recently dropped?
Oh, working with Amy Troost was such a pleasure. She is genuinely so nice and has such an amazing team. It was my first shoot in New York, so I was excited and she told me I had a great smile so I smiled throughout the entire shoot.
When you’re not modeling, what mostly takes up your time?
I spend most of my time dancing, making content on TikTok, and going live on IG to answer most questions and misconceptions people have about models in the industry.
Where would you like to take your modeling career, and which dream designers would you love to work with?
It would be more than a dream to be an actress. I’ve always had fantasies about it and would one day love to make it a reality. I feel like there’s more to me and I want people to see that on the big screens. Also, it would be such an honor to work with Phoebe Philo someday; she’s so inspiring.
Dion Lee F/W 22 Show | Photo by Albert Urso/Getty Images
