In conversation with Azim Uddula, one of the hottest male supermodels in town!
How does it feel to have won the ‘International Model Award’ presented by Integrity Magazine at the 74th Cannes Film Festival?
Any recognition is undoubtedly heart-warming. Moreover, to be recognised at an international platform such as the Cannes Film Festival was a tremendous experience. Although it would have been much more enjoyable if I had been able to receive the award in person, sometimes we have to rise above personal priorities and respect the restrictions in place for the aggregate benefit of society.
I have previously worked in many international events, however, this particular award from the Cannes Film Festival hits differently. The honour goes beyond personal achievements as I was also representing my nation to the entire world. So it certainly holds a distinct position among all my achievements.
With the recognition of the film Rehana Maryam Noor and your award, in the 74th Cannes Film Festival, it has been a remarkable event for Bangladesh. Can we expect this to be a watershed moment that will inspire local artists to aspire for international recognition?
Of course! All the recent international recognition of our local talents are indeed inspiring for the youths aspiring to work in media. These international achievements will work as a driving force for potential talents to go beyond their limits and utilise their capability. All it takes is diligence, determination, and focus. Soon our country’s talents receiving international acknowledgement will be a very common thing.
I FEEL THAT HONESTY, HARD WORK, AND CONFIDENCE ARE ALL IT TAKES TO ACHIEVE ANYTHING IN LIFE
How did it all begin for you?
Initially, two of my friends, Sohel and Foysal, coaxed me to take up modelling as a career path. When we were in university, a mutual friend of ours was already involved in the fashion industry, and consequently, I was motivated to establish a career in the industry. As I was always sporty, I was also in perfect shape for the job. I eventually sent some of my portfolio to some renowned magazines and fashion houses where the pictures were heavily praised, and some even got published! At one point, I caught the eye of Tanjim Haque, the owner of Ecstasy.
He was impressed and soon after he onboarded me for their ‘Denim’ project. The output of that project was splendid. From then on, I continued to get the opportunity to work in more projects – there was no looking back! I really enjoy what I do, and I am glad I have been able to make it this far.
According to you, what are the aspects that are necessary to inculcate within oneself to attain success?
I feel that honesty, hard work, and confidence are all it takes to achieve anything in life. It certainly worked for me. I have always maintained honesty and dignity in all of my work. Confidence is something that comes with time. For that reason, taking the first step is all you need to do. The rest of the path will fall in its place on its own. Besides, our external look is all bestowed by the creator. But the lifestyle we choose for ourselves to attain success depends on us. So making choices that are good for you is also a fundamental aspect for inevitable success.
You have, in many instances, spoken very highly of the American fashion designer Grace Moon and the role she played in advancing your career. Would you mind elaborating on that?
Grace Moon has had a remarkable effect on my career and played a pivotal role in some of the important projects I have undertaken. Hence, I am immensely grateful to her. I got acquainted with her when I participated as a co-judge for Face of Asia. Grace is someone always willing to facilitate opportunities for young talents. She was very impressed by how well I balanced my role as a model and an entrepreneur during our interactions. Grace Moon came to Dhaka for a show called ‘Frozen in Time’, in which she collaborated with my fashion brand, AZ. So this show further accelerated our mutual understanding. Partnering with Integrity Magazine, Grace Moon organized a show at Cannes as well and invited me there as well. I was eventually offered a chance to work with Integrity Magazine for some photoshoots as well.
SO IN FUTURE, I WANT TO WORK ON PROJECTS THAT WILL ENCOURAGE ASPIRING YOUTH TO EXPLORE THEIR POTENTIALS IN THIS FIELD
All of these paved the way for me to win the International Star Award at Cannes. So, f I give the credit to Grace Moon for all of these great opportunities that I have had the pleasure of getting. It has been an honour to work with a designer of her stature who has such a diverse range of experiences. I consider myself blessed as I got the golden chance to learn so much from her.
Tell us a bit about your clothing line, AZ.
As someone who has been working in the fashion industry for quite some time, I have developed a knack for design and aesthetics. AZ is an endeavour which communicates my sense of design sense to my clients. In 2019, AZ was officially launched at an outlet in Gulshan.
You are unarguably one of the most sought after models in the country and have won many accolades for Bangladesh. Where do you aspire to see yourself in the next two years?
We, as artists and models, certainly have some responsibilities towards growing our fashion industry. So in future, I want to work on projects that will encourage aspiring youth to explore their potentials in this field. Also, as a model, I thrive on becoming affiliated with more international brands and want to continue to represent Bangladesh in a greater light. Apart from that, I also look forward to expanding my clothing line, AZ, beyond the borders.