Ayo Umoh is one of those referred to as ‘renaissance’ men because of their versatility. He is an artiste, a broadcaster, a TV/radio content developer and a ‘tailor’, as he calls himself. 20 years down the line in dressmaking, the Yaba College of Technology-trained quantity surveyor, whose mother is from Ikere, Ekiti State and father from Asong-Nkpayenim, Akwa Ibom State, is a popular face on television. His designs made from African fabrics are popular among Nollywood practitioners and men, who desire to look classic. He shares with DANIEL ANAZIA his ‘firsts’.
Which was your first break?
I’m more of a TV person than movie even though there is little or no difference between them. I started out from the stage before going on TV. I have done a couple of works, including Kamson and Neighbours, Just the 2 of Us, Blaze of Glory, Laff Patterns (Comedy) and recently Tinsel. I also played a role in the movie King of Cheetah produced by Jatto.
Your first time on stage
It was as if the whole world was about to crash on my head. You can never be too perfect as a first timer because there are bound to be a little hiccup, but all goes to make you a professional.
Your first choice food
I’m an Ibibio and there is no better food than my native ekpankukwo.
What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when dressing?
I have an orientation that the way you dress is how people address you; so, I try as much as possible to be very moderate with what I wear. Some people say I’m a bit conservative, but the truth is, I try to keep my game up. Stardom or no stardom, we should project good morals with our dressing and; I see no reason why a man at my age should be sagging.
Your first love fashion accessory and your most worn item
I have flair for shoes, they may not be too expensive, but I’m particular about them. For a very long time I was used to wearing high suits maybe because of the kind of job I was involved in; but after a while I moved away from that. These days, I love coming out in casuals; you will rarely see me wear long sleeves shirt because we are in the tropic. For me, nothing does it better than a chinos pant, short sleeve shirt and a nice shoe to complement.
First crush on a girl and first kiss
That’s way back in my secondary school days. Her name is Bola; she is half Nigerian and half Egyptian. For the kiss thing, when you have such experience the first time you will try to relish it and keep your lips as evidence to show your friends that you actually did. It was indeed a boyish thing, though we didn’t date, after a long time we reconnected… keep imagining.
What impresses or distracts you in people at first meeting?
A clean and decent lady blows my mind. So, for me, neatness is very important.
Your first time embarrassment and how did you handle it?
The day my shoes got opened at the front… I felt off balanced, but I managed to get out of it.
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