Raheem Aishat Olabisi, popularly known to her fans as Yomidun, is a living proof that passion can evolve into a career. At just 22, the social media personality and model is turning heads online and offline, and her ambitions now reach beyond Nigeria’s borders to the glamorous runways of global fashion brands.
Born and raised in the rustic capital city of Oyo State, Yomidun says her journey into modelling and brand influencing happened naturally. “Well, I didn’t plan to go into modelling and influencer marketing. However, when I was little, I liked to take pictures and dreamed of modelling for brands,” she explained. “I would post my random ‘pretty-girl’ photos on social media for fun. I noticed that people started to fall in love with my content and personality. That was how I transitioned into modeling and brand influencer marketing,” she added.
Her dream list includes working with some of the most recognised fashion labels in the world. “I would love to work with brands like Fashion Nova, PrettyLittleThing, Boohoo and few others; These are fashion brands where a lot of people shop from,” she said. “I picked them because I’ve been willing to work with intentional brands and they sell really nice, good quality outfits.”
Since the beginning of her journey, Yomidun has built an impressive portfolio, collaborating with numerous local and international brands. She counts her work with smartphone giant Tecno Nigeria as her proudest achievement yet. “My biggest project so far is working on a job for Tecno Nigeria,” she recalled. “It came at a time when I was already looking out for such an opportunity. Having a big brand like that knock on my doors boosted my confidence.”
Her influences, she admits, are a mix of global icons and personal heroes. “I admire the Kardashians, most especially Kylie Jenner. When they started, a lot of people did not give them a chance and I can relate to that,” she said. “Their ambition and tenacity inspire me a lot. Hopefully, I can get a chance to meet my idol, Kylie Jenner, someday. I would also pick my mum as another role model. She’s hardworking, strong, supportive, and someone to look up to,” she added.
But the journey hasn’t been without challenges. “Being in the public eye comes with a lot of backlash, bullying, and negative comments. Sometimes people make false rumours just to bring you down,” she revealed. “I always remain consistent in achieving my goals. I focus on the positive reviews and constructive criticisms to constantly make improvement.”
To young people hoping to follow in her footsteps, Yomidun offers a message of persistence. “My advice is to be tenacious in building your brand even when people do not give you a chance to achieve your ambitions. Everyone’s dream is valid if you remain consistent. I would also advise people to have a role model, someone they can look up to for guidance and support because the journey to success is not an easy one.”
Looking ahead, Yomidun has no plans of slowing down. “My fans should look forward to getting more of the positive vibe from me,” she said with a smile affirmatively. “They should expect me to sign million-dollar deals back to back and churn out mind-blowing content with my own kind of energy.”
