Urban World

Model Focus: Charlene Dobbs

Who you are
My name is Charlene Dobbs but my friends call me Chaz or Jewel...because I'm such a typical girl!! I’m 22, was born and raised in East London and I’m of Jamaican heritage. I try to have a positive outlook on life and have learned that you should make the most of opportunities as you never know when you could get such chances again. Surprisingly I can be quite shy when away from the cameras, I'm a fun, scatty, down to earth person when you get to know me. Although I'm always cheerful and outgoing I am known to be a bit manic when trying to find outfits for a night out…but then again what girl isn’t!

I think ambition is vital to a good quality life, and so I believe that you can have anything you want in life as long as you work hard for it.  I am a firm believer of the saying ‘never judge a book by its cover’ and I’m very proud to have completed my Bachelor’s honours degree in Computing and Marketing, earning a 2.1. I am currently doing a graduate internship in marketing and thoroughly enjoying it! Who knows, I could be marketing my own lingerie brand in a few years time! I believe that solely relying on something as temporary and superficial as external beauty to ensure success is not practical or realistic. This explains why graduating with honours was one of my most significant accomplishments.
 
How you got into modelling
Well modelling wasn’t originally the career I wanted to do. I think the first thing that made me have an interest was when I done my first photo shoot - you know the usual ‘glamorous’ photoshoots at the west end studios. Who remembers New I.D? Lol!  I enjoyed myself so much that from there I took an instant interest. From that point I tried to do more photo shoots to build up a portfolio. I tried to experiment with themes, colours and make-up until I started getting approached by photographers. I networked well until I  began to get the vital exposure that I needed!  
 
What you've done so far
I’ve taken part in a few catwalks, and a fashion show with top retailers such as River Island, Bay Trading and Topshop. I’ve started to take an interest in working as an extra and have appeared on Dubplate Drama. I’ve been in a few videos for artists such as G Range and Boy Better Know, which has been a lot of fun! I've been lucky enough to work with a huge variety of photographers such as Lee Barker, Kosher (Femelle Studios), Atomicsparkle, Palle Hansen and RTW Magazine, have also been interviewed at ’beautywithbrains.co.uk’. I'm currently working with New Wave Entertainment as a Splash girl.  
 
Type of modelling you do
I would say eye-candy/glamour modelling. I tried not to limit my look from the beginning...I tried themed shoots, fashion photo shoots, and had a lot of beauty shots. I’ve enjoyed it all but I found creating my current portfolio the most fun. I love being me so whether it’s mascara, lip gloss, tight jeans and a low cut top, or a dress on a night out, I’m comfortable in my skin! Eye-candy modelling is my preference and you know what they say…you’re always the best at what you enjoy most.  
 
Best times
I would have to say the local fashion show with all the top retailers was one of my best moments. I hadn’t given much thought to the runway until the opportunity arose, but I really enjoyed it. Having a different look with every outfit whilst being cheered on by my family and friends was definitely memorable! Another best moment was my photo shoot in Miami. It took place on one of the islands and to this date has been my best shoot location so far…can I go back please?! Working with an overseas photographer also gave me an insight into the American modelling industry.
 
Worst times
Definitely having to chase photographers down for photos from a shoot!! I hate that! It’s so unprofessional and extremely annoying.  

Who you'd like to model with
Tyson Beckford please. That could be unpaid, I wouldn’t mind haha! I love Tyra Banks and Yaya Da Costa also. It’s hard not to name American models as black models have had far more success and nationwide exposure in America than in the UK. However there’s a lot of talent in the UK too, I respect the work of models such as Nickita Martin for example
 
What do you think of the current UK urban modelling scene?
That’s a tricky situation because to those involved in the industry it’s enthusiastic…thriving with opportunity, activity and determination, but it still needs much further exposure. The urban modelling industry has a lot of energy within it, all it takes is for a few of us to break the barriers and then the rest can follow. Hopefully I can be one of them!!
 
Anything else that you'd like to add
I am very blessed and lucky to have an amazing family and some great friends and so I just want to thank those who continue to support me. Whether it’s taking the time out to skim through my pictures, joining my face book group or reading this interview, I am very grateful for it all! One of the most important things in life is happiness and I urge you all to live each day to the fullest!! Thanks again