EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: U.S. Based PR Coordinator, Influencer and Model, Chidi talks Nigerian Heritage, Travel, Instagram Influence, Photos and more…

Currently living in Los Angeles, California, Chidi is a Public Relations maven and a freelance stylist who is passionate about fashion, fitness, and travel.

Chidi, 26 works out tremendously on his fashionable look and very fit body.

Check out my exclusive interview with Chidi below:

Hey Chidi! Would you like to introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Chidi, a public relations coordinator and Instagram influencer/model currently residing in Los Angeles, California.

Take me through an average day in the life of you?
In my life, no two days are the same. Some days I’m in the office from 9 to 6, other days I have photo shoots and events to attend. However I always makes time for the gym.

What institution(s) did you attend and what did you study?
I attended the University at Albany, where I studied communication and business. I have a bachelor’s degree in communication and rhetoric.

What inspired you to become a model and how were you scouted?
I can’t say that I sought out becoming a model or even really consider myself one. My popularity came from pictures shot by my friends. A hand full of my friends are working photographers and we would take pictures around Los Angeles, events and vacations. A couple of these images went viral and the rest is history.

You shuttle between New York to Los Angeles, why?
I was born and raised in New York. I moved to L.A. in 2013.

You are also a Publicity Coordinator. What does that entail?
I work for television network as a publicity coordinator. I handle accommodations for premieres and marketing events.

How’s the fitness and modelling industry in the United States like?
As an influencer/model I have been able to connect and network with brands, professionals and other influencer. It has broadened my range of exposure and has brought me into rooms that I wouldn’t have been able to access.

Do you feel the modelling industry is doing alot to encourage new Instagram models?
Instagram is the easiest and smartest lane for self-promotion. It all depends how you brand yourself.

What will you say sets you aside from other Instagram models?
On my Instagram (Sir.Chidi) I try to create a balance between fitness and fashion. I like to showcase style, fitness and travel. I see myself as a modern day gentlemen; a well-dressed sex symbol.

You are a young entrepreneurial minded guy. How do you balance your personal and professional life?
The key to happiness is balance. When you’re doing something you love it doesn’t feel like “work”. I focus on doing my best everyday as well as making sure I make space for personal time for leisure activities. In some cases my personal and professional life intertwine and that makes the perfect situation.

What will you say are your fascinations with taking photos because looking at your photos on Instagram you seem to enjoy it?
I enjoy taking photos because it’s a lasting memory. When I put together a look or reach a goal in my fitness journey I like to document it.

Looking at your photos online I can tell you love going to the gym, so how often do you go to the gym and how many hours do you spend while you there?
I go to the gym 5 days a week for 45 minutes max.

What’s your 5 Dos and Don’t when it comes to Instagram modelling?
You always have to be aware of what you post as you are a representation of yourself and your surroundings. You are a brand and your content tells a story about you; therefore you have to represent yourself in the best light. Be strategic and aware at the same time.

What makes defines or makes a good fitness model?
A fitness model should embody health, fitness and an image that shows success in the fitness world. Viewers want to see what they could be with dedication and commitment.

What would you say is the main misconception the public have about models?
Most people assume most models spend all day everyday taking pictures. If you have reached a level in your career where it pays you enough to do so that can be a possibility. However some of us; such as myself have a full time job.

What aspect surprised you the most once you started as a model?
I was most surprised at some of the messages I received thanking me for being an inspiration. I personally never thought of my Instagram (Sir.Chidi) as influential at first cause I posted just what I liked; then I learned I was actually helping others gain confidence, learn style and I am an image of fitness goals.

What has been one of the most memorable jobs to work on?
I enjoy the most shooting with my friends, because it’s more than just pictures it’s a whole experience.

Who do you want to work with that you haven’t yet?
I would love to work with GQ and Nike in the near future. Those are brands that I see myself flourishing in.

Tell us two things people don’t know about you?
1. I actually smile a lot
2. My parents are Nigerians

What do you consider your biggest professional success so far?
I have been blessed enough to host events due to my Instagram (Sir.Chidi). Which is great because I can produce an income doing what I enjoy.

What has been your biggest challenge?
My schedule gets hectic sometimes, so it makes it difficult to dedicate my time to photoshoots.

You are active on social media. Do you think its important to be online and if so why?
Being on social media is a choice that you make. Depending on what you as a person want to achieve, should determine how important Instagram is to you. Although, I do believe it’s an excellent platform for marketing.

You are originally from Nigeria, but now mostly live in the United States. How is that working out for you?
I was born and raised in New York. My parents are from Nigeria. My background is strongly embedded in me because it is my heritage.

What are your must visit travel destinations?
My travel destination must visit list are Nigeria, China and Brazil.

How did growing up in the east influence your current style?
Growing up in New York I grew up looking at professional men that wore suits to work every day. I enjoyed the respect a man in suit receives therefore I incorporate it into my every day looks.

Name 5 things we should take seriously about our style choices?
1. I love a fitted look
2. I always have an accessory on
3. Suspenders are my favorite accessory
4. I enjoy dressing up more than dressing down
5. My goal is to stand out not blend in

How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as a Bold Gentlemen.

What style genre appeals to you the most?
I love to be in a suit. I feel the most comfortable in a blazer and slacks.

Name your 5 must have accessories/essentials?
Essential items for a good outfit are;
1. Fitted attire
2. Watch
3. Tie clip
4. Pin
5. A stylish bag

What are your favorite fashion trends?
My closet consist of blazers, fitted pants and hard bottom shoes. I also enjoy mixing and matching tanks and sneakers into my look sometimes. I wouldn’t call myself a trend person, I like to purchase items that are timeless.

What is your favorite dish?
I love plantains and jollof rice.

What songs are currently on your playlist?
Currently I have Bruno Mars 24K Magic album on repeat.

Apart from fitness, business and modelling, what other projects are you currently working on?
Currently I train clients to achieve their weight loss goals in my free time. As well as assistant a charity in conducting a fashion show for high school students to raise fund and promote their arts program.

Seeing you’re doing your dreams, what advice can you give others to pursue their dreams?
Always remember to do what you love. What’s the use of living if you’re not living your life to the fullest? Every day is a good day to try something new. Moreover you are in control of your life and destiny.

Any specific plans for the future?
My plan is to continue to expand my brand and see where it takes me.

Where can we follow you online and on social media?
My Instagram is Sir.Chidi