Words by Ashiyath Imala
Outfit: Rogue by Naj
MUA: Glomorr.mv

It was the moment every single person in the room has been anticipating for. Every second ticking by was a nerve-wracking wait. Feelings of apprehension was seen on the contestants faces, anxious to know the final outcome of their journey. Amongst these beautiful ladies from all over the country, only one would be taking the crown home that night. It would be a magical night to remember and an opportunity to accomplish their dreams.

As the presenter was ready to announce the winner, an eerie silence overshadowed the hall. Each contestant was silently praying that it was their name that would be called. “And the winner of Top Model Maldives 2020 is … Noor”. The silent hall erupted into a deafening applause.

Mariyam Noor also known as Ninni had a look of disbelief when her name was announced. She was rooted to her spot unable to comprehend the fact that she had just won the title as Top Model Maldives. Her face lit up with a huge smile, her heart racing as it was a moment she would cherish forever. We got down to interviewing the girl who conquered her dream at a young age.

How did your passion for modelling begin?

When I was young, I used to watch shows like America’s next top model a lot. Would not be wrong to say I grew up watching every single episode of that show. And I would like pose and learn to walk in front of the mirror which built up my passion for modeling. So, one day a designer friend of my mom’s called and asked my mom if I am willing to model. And that’s where my modeling career started. The first modelling shoot went well and I wanted to do it more afterwards.

How does it feel to win top model Maldives 2020?

I really didn’t expect to win. It was something that took me off-guard but I am so thankful for it. I really didn’t know what to do. It felt like a dream. I really wanted to pinch myself and say ‘No this is a dream and it’s time for you to wakeup’. Younger me would never have imagined that it would be possible. It’s life changing to be honest.

Was it challenging?

Yes, it was challenging to stand out and prove that I am worthy of the title.

Can you explain your beauty routine?

My beauty routine is very very simple. I try to get minimum 8 hours sleep and not more than 10 hours. And I drink enough amount of water to keep myself hydrated. At the moment I am not working out but I plan to start as soon as gyms opens.

What is your go to outfit during day time?

I really don’t have a specific style. One day you might see me in like a casual top and jeans, the next day you might see me in like a party outfit. It’s really hard for me to say one specific style, but if I had to choose, I think I would choose something simple like a flowy dress that is breathable and movable.

What’s the most challenging shoot you have ever done?

The underwater shoot. Trying to hold the breath in and then posing to make my face look decent enough for a photo was quiet challenging.

What type of shoots do you enjoy?

I do almost all types of shoots. I really do not have a certain type of shoot that I stick to.

What is the biggest lesson modelling has taught you?

Well, what I have learnt is that no matter what people will judge you and you cannot satisfy everyone but if you believe in yourself there is going to be a lot of people that admire you and look up to you. My confidence level after the top model has increased a lot.

Who’s your favorite model and what do you look upon that person?

Tyra Banks. The confidence she has. She’s always giving advices to everyone. Overall, she’s such a big influence on models and I just want to be like her one day.

How does it feel like to compete in an international pageant? What did you learn and what was it like walking with models from all over the world?

I would be watching all model shows and thinking would I get to do all that. So, it was truly a dream come true. A once in a lifetime trip. What I learnt from this experience is that everything is not as it seems but as long as you are trying you can do anything you want. It really taught me that everyone is really different and each person is beautiful in their own way and how similar we are to each other. Everyone was encouraging each other and giving advices. Helping out when needed. Really humble and genuine. I didn’t think going there I would make so many friends. It was a really amazing experience. And what’s more amazing is that we all still text each other from time to time which I am so grateful for. Also, the culture was full of colors and the food was amazing. I really wish to experience it all over again.

Is there any specific fashion runway that you would like to walk on?

I would like to walk for Paris and New York Fashion Week. I would just absolutely love to walk for all those luxury designer brands one day. My biggest dream is to wear a Versace dress and walk the ramp for them.

Name three things on your bucket list?

I am terrified of fishes; I have phobias of fishes but I would really like to swim with whale sharks. Second one would be skydiving even though I am scared of heights too. The first two are more like conquering my fears. The third one is travelling around the world, meeting new people, see their culture and trying out new foods.

Is there anything you purposely don’t post on social media?

My family. Because there are people who judge and say things about them. So, I keep them far away from my social media.

How does the audience react to modelling? Feedbacks? Comments?

It was mostly mixed reactions. There were many people who were supporting and texting me asking when my next shoot would be. It was amazing but with every good thing comes the negativity. A lot of people had a lot of things to say but in the mean time I got many advice which made me stronger and made me realize on how to deal with the hate.

Are there any jobs or projects that you haven’t done yet that you still want to do?

There is a lot. My mind is always coming up with new ideas and new things I want to try. I would like to redo the underwater photoshoot again. Also, I really want to do a shoot with snakes.

Do you have a specific motto you live by?

Never give up even though it gets hard and just keep on trying until you achieve what you want.

What is your advice to a newcomer?

Just go with doing whatever you want. People are going to tell you what you should do and give their opinion about it. Do what’s best for you. Once you decide on what you want to do, don’t ever look back.