Our Interview with KAMAL IBRAHIM (Mr. World)
Having worked for over five years as a runway and photographic model, Kamal Ibrahim has now climbed the ranks to success by setting the following records…
The 1st ever Mr Ireland to represent internationally.
The 1st ever Irish Mr World
Only the 6th Mr World title holder in 16 years
On the 27th of March, Kamal Ibrahim won the title of Mr World – no mean feat I’m sure you’ll agree! Taking a cash prize and endorsement opportunities worldwide, Kamal has embarked on what will most likely be the most exciting 12 months of his life so far, travelling to Asia, the America's, Europe, Africa and the Pacific taking part in major international events involving Charity & Fundraising, News & Entertainment, Culture & Fashion, and representing Ireland as the worldwide ambassador with the MWO. We can’t think of a more handsome Ambassador! But thankfully, despite all of these brilliant, but far flung opportunities Kamal still plans very much on working here in Ireland. Well, we were eager to catch up with the man who is officially the World’s (and esp Ireland’s) most desirable man!
Photographs by savvy fashion photographer Lili Forberg
Q: Kamal what has been the reaction to you now, both locally and nationally, since your spectacular win in March and how have things changed for you?
A: The reaction was overwhelming - people want to know more about what this competition is all about and what it means for me and Ireland. Things are still more or less the same but are changing slowly. I have a lot of opportunities now and i find myself in positions that allow me to tell the world about me and where im from - Ireland!!!
Q: Did you believe when you got to Korea that you had a good chance at winning the Mr World contest or was it a bit of a surprise to you?
A: I went to Korea with the hope of making top 15. I believed that If i worked hard at it i could get that.I didnt believe for a second i could really win it because to be honest i didnt think i looked like a Mr World. But I guess it wasn't just looks they were after. So yes i was incredibly surprised.
Q: You had been modelling for a few years prior to your win. This must have been the big break you had been waiting for in terms of your career, how do you plan on maximising it?
A: Well the funny thing is I never set this as a goal - I just took advantage of the opportunities as they arose and worked my hardest. That said it is the 'big break' I need if I want to really chase my career as a TV presenter & personality. I plan to keep on working hard, keep smiling and keep being the same person i always have been - its got me this far so why change?
Q: Do you enjoy being in the public eye?
A: I love it.. As its all still rather new I do enjoy the attention, but Im not getting carried away.. I know that this could all end and I respect the fact that it is the public who will keep me where I am, in the end if no one is interested then it all stops.
Q: Do you see yourself as a kind of ‘role model’ to younger men now?
A: Absolutely - in fact its my job as Mr World to act as a representative, role model and ambassador for MWO and i want to show the younger guys how they too can achieve their goals and dreams no matter what those dreams may be.
Q: Image is obviously a huge part in what you do but how much emphasis do you place on your public image?
A:I know this is a touchy subject but I believe Image is very important and for a number of reasons - however, image is hollow unless you have the character and personality to support it.
Q:Do you have to be extra style conscious now and how would you describe your personal style?
A: Being in the public eye and being seen as a role model does mean I need to be 'style conscious' so I do pay a lot of attention to how I look. That said I'm very relaxed and confident no matter how I look. My personal style is sharp, slick and sexy - very James Bond (if I can get away with it)
Q: Do you enjoy clothes shopping and if so, where do you like to shop?
A: I'm the worst for shopping - I always bring a friend if i go shopping which to be honest is rare. I love shopping for the brand 'Selected Homme' - they've got everything a guy could need at a good price and the clothes are fantastic quality.
Q: Based on your win and of course your toned physique, it’s pretty clear that you work out – but what is your regime like? Is it very strict?
A: Yes I do work out quite a lot. During an 'off season' when its quieter i.e. the summer, I might go to the gym 2 - 3 times a week and take care of my diet. During working season or preparing for a particular event I would train 4 - 5 times a week and go on a very strict diet. I dont smoke, hardly drink and stay away from fast food 99% of the time. But i enjoy living healthy so its ok.
Q: We have read that you are interested in pursuing a career in television – what direction would you ideally like to see that go? Presenting or acting?
A: I respect actors a lot because i know how difficult it is. I certainly dont think i would make a good actor, then again i've never really tried. I know i would make a good presenter though, because thats the personailty I have - plus its been tried and tested and it works. I would love to have my own show some day.
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years time?
A: Taking over Ryan Seacrests job :-) or at least to have achieved a career as a top celebrity presenter.
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