“GNTM” candidate Noëlla
“I slipped into the modeling business”
Noëlla mixes up the current “Germany’s next top model” season.
© Six
“I’m living my biggest dream right now,” enthuses “GNTM” candidate Noëlla. She is attracting a lot of attention in the current season.
She is certainly one of the most striking candidates in the current “Germany’s next top model” season: Congolese-born Noëlla. The 24-year-old has already caused some drama in the model villa and snatches one coveted job after the other from under her nose. In the latest episode she was also able to assert herself in the casting and is in front of the camera for the campaign shoot for Six. In an interview, Noëlla now talks about the biggest challenges at “GNTM”, her role models and model mom Heidi Klum (48).
Have you always wanted to be a model?
Noëlla: Honestly, no. I was in elder care for five years and it was never in the back of my mind to be a model. I’m small, only 1.65 meters, and also have some scarring that is very visible. So I never corresponded to the classic beauty ideal. My best friend has been modeling herself for years and has inspired me with her path and her passion and also that she makes money with it. I wanted that too, but I was camera shy and didn’t like being photographed. She ultimately pushed me, gave me confidence and attitude, and convinced me to have my picture taken. That’s how I “slipped” into the modeling business.
How did your application to “GNTM” come about?
Noëlla: My application was pretty spontaneous. When I watched the last season with my girlfriend, we thought about applying next time and that’s how it happened. We both applied, but unfortunately only I was accepted. However, my girlfriend was so supportive, for example by taking pictures of me.
What are the biggest challenges at “GNTM” for you?
Noëlla: As a person, I am very often perceived as masculine. Therefore, one of my biggest challenges in the shoots is to bring out my softer and more feminine side.
Which candidates do you get along with best?
Noëlla: As you can also see on TV, my absolute reference persons are Barbara and Yasmin to this day. When both left the format, it was very hard for me.
What do you enjoy the most?
Noëlla: I always thought I was particularly good at playing with the camera and that the catwalk wasn’t really my forte due to my foot lifting weakness. Heidi taught me better and encouraged me to kneel more while running. I really enjoy being on the catwalk. I used to want to get it over with quickly. But today I don’t want to have any more weaknesses, but show strength in everything.
What was your first thought when you found out you were selected for the six shoot?
Noëlla: I was very, very happy! I have Six jewelry myself and I was so grateful because I’m a colorful person and I love the collection. This job was just right for me!
What piece of jewelry would you never leave home without?
Noëlla: I wear a lot of rings and I like minimalist necklaces. Sometimes I even wear anklets.
How would you describe your fashion style?
Noëlla: I like everything that other people would describe as “weird”. “More is more” is my fashion motto. It scares a lot of people, but I love it. I wear clothes, clothes don’t wear me.
Who is your role model?
Noëlla: When it comes to celebrities, Miley Cyrus inspires me because she admits her mistakes and weaknesses and thus shows humanity despite her enormous celebrity status.
What do you admire most about Heidi?
Noëlla: Your empathy. She talked to me about me and my not particularly easy past. And she also gave me insights into her life so that I can open up more easily. I find that very admirable.
What is your biggest dream?
Noëlla: I’m living my biggest dream right now. But other than that I would absolutely love to shoot for Dolce & Gabbana, I love their clothes.