MEXICO – Namibian model, actor and singer Rowan Summers is making his mark in the modelling industry across borders in Mexico. He recently appeared in Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort TV ad which was launched recently and caught Entertainment Now!’s attention.
The biochemist graduate from Unam got into modelling six years ago when he received his first contract in India." I was there for three months then after that, I went over to Cape Town for five months. In between, I spent some time in Namibia as well as working as a chemist for Namibia Breweries, Hangana Seafood and Hartlief. In September 2017, I left for Mexico and am currently still residing here. I am currently signed with Queta Rojas,’’ he narrated.
Upon arriving in the southern part of North America he was given a six-month contract in Manzanillo, Mexico and about three years later another opportunity arose at a hotel called Gran Festival in the Sports and Theatre department which proved to be a game-changer.
Modelling is extremely competitive especially during the pandemic, and the industry is filled with rejection, but successful models spend their time doing something that they love, but for Rowan, his determination has made him a much notable figure and a go-to person for clients.
"I think I will have to say that it came from hard work, consistency, determination, self-belief, perseverance, rejection and trial and error throughout the six years I’ve been in the industry. Ever since the Covid-19 started, the work has decreased significantly, however, there is still work. I mostly travel around Mexico for work but I went to Chile last year to do a campaign for Priceshoes. I have also been to to Atlanta and New York,’’ he said.
The most awkward conversation models have is about remuneration for their hard work and they tend to shy away from the subject. Rowan informed this reporter that modelling jobs usually have a lengthy policy in place when it comes to payouts, which are frustrating at times.
"In the beginning, it’s always difficult to make a living as the industry has a 3-6 payment policy which means that you only get paid for a job 2-3 months after you’ve done it. For commercials, it takes about 3-6 months to pay you but once you have a flow going, you should be fine. You should look at expanding your talent along the way by starting a business or basically becoming an entrepreneur,’’ he pointed out.
For now, Rowan is focused on his music career and building a fan base for his sound with his band called LOVE. He is learning to play the piano, song composition, music business and marketing. While improving that, the modelling and acting continue as well.
The model-actor-singer has not been back in the country ever since he left but plans to come back next year to visit his family when his schedule allows.
The flamboyant traveller had some advice for aspiring models: "Believe in yourself, embrace your flaws, take risks, stay conscious, give 100% to every single job regardless of your situation and work at your craft every single day. Remember as well, in order to achieve and maintain greatness you should have the patience for your development. Enjoy the journey rather than rushing it,’’ he ended. - slunyangwe@nepc.com.na