On episode 116, we feature Nigerian-American Sports Illustrated model, Adaora Akubilo. Abi spoke to the 5’11 beauty about how she went from being a devoted academic to a successful fashion model. She also addresses those who’ve criticized her for showing skin in her sexy swimsuit shoots. Tune in and read the full transcript of the interview below!
Culture Shock: Episode 116
Introduce yourself
Hi, my name is Adaora and I’m a Sports Illustrated model
Talk a bit about your background as a Nigerian…were you born here…
I was born in Connecticut, however, both my parents are Nigerian. They are Igbo and I got a chance to live in Nigeria when I was younger for almost six years.
What was that experience like?
{laughs} I was ten when I went. I understood the language, you know my parents speak Igbo around me and stuff, and I understood it. I knew a few words here and there but I really can’t speak it, so when I went there it was like, alright, this is different. The kids were so mean to me because I dressed differently and I spoke differently. You know, I just didn’t sound like them so it was an adjustment. Eventually I learned how to fit in. I gradually lost my American accent, I almost blended in except for the fact that I was 5 ft 11 inches at age 10 {laughs}.
