Faya Faye is unquestionably the most controversial Gambian model of the moment. She might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but her legion of fans live for her.

Enjoy our latest interview with the award-winning model:

What’s On-Gambia: For a long time you kept silent, what happened?

Faya:I will not call it silent. There are other things that need attending to. And there are always real life happenings away from the internet.

How do you deal with the haters who feel like models should not be respected?

Haters? Isn't that a little harsh? I don't see them as haters. I just see them as people who don't understand what we do or those that are just not into it. They have the right to their opinions and feelings.

Honestly, are Gambians too harsh to each other?

Well harsh in what way?

Like being judgmental.

Yap, they can be. Not all, but most hardly ever think of the situation or try to be in a person’s shoes before coming to a conclusion. We all do that but it is always good to look at other people's point of view.

Are you still posing nude in front of the camera?

(Laughs) like I always say, nude is naked and I was doing and still doing implied which involves bikini, artistic shoots etc. If you mean those, well of cause I am still on the grind.

Late last year, you won an award in New York. Tell us more about it?

It was a great honor to be chosen out of many stunningly talented ladies as International Model of the Year. It is also a great pleasure to be associated with Heartland Model Agency. Without the help of God and them I probably will not be doing as much.

Why do you think you were plucked from hundreds to receive the prestigious award?

Ha I don't know (laughs). I do what I do without a worry in the world. Put God first and just show the world my talent and stand for the majority of girls who would love to be in the fashion industry but are restricted by the society.

Why are you still single?

(Laughs) I guess if I knew that answer I probably will not be single, would I? If I say I work a lot or I don't have the time, it probably will sound like an excuse because we always have the time to love and be loved. So I will say maybe he was hit by the train on his way to me....?

What happened to your online relationship with music promoter, Bakz Saho?

I guess exactly what happens to online relationships? Or better still you can ask him.

Are you still in contact with your ex-husband, Jali Madi Kanuteh?

What a question...

I repeat: Are you still in contact with your ex husband?

(Laughs) If need be.

Meaning?

Meaning if there is a need to contact we do. If there is no need then we don't.

Interesting! Do you have a copy of his debut album?

No unfortunately. But I did contact him about it recently. Can’t wait to get it!

In case you don’t know, it is available on iTunes.

Wouldn’t it be a shame if it wasn't? Listened to a few but I still prefer a hard copy.

You're beautiful, sexy, smart and confident. Do you reckon that Gambian guys are intimidated by you?

I doubt that (laughs). Aren't you funny? Maybe you can do a research and let me know.

What do you do when you're not modeling?

Selling stuffs (laughs). I love sales. I always try to get a job as a Sales Associate or Customer Care Rep. Right now, I am an Independent Contractor with Life Alert Emergency Response Inc. as a Customer Care Consultant.

Are you planning to visit The Gambia anytime soon?

Inshallah

Do you have a tattoo just above your …..(laughs)?

Above my....? Aren't tattoos always above something (laughs)?

Ok, where on your body do you have your tattoos?

On my left arm I have the map of Africa with the words "stay true". Below my navel, I have the Aries sign with flames, and on my waist I have a big green leaf.

Below your navel, I guess that was a better way of putting it (laughs). Any Piercings?

I have tragus on both ears, one rook piercing on the right ear, a navel piercing and a........ piercing (laughs).

What advice would you give to girls who are not comfortable in their own skin?

We are what we think about all day long. If you think you are beautiful in your skin then you certainly are. If you watch and listen to what other people do or say then you will never be comfortable in any skin. It is up to us to decide if we want to show the world that beauty has nothing to do with skin color or chemicals.

Are you ready for the month of Ramadan?

Is any honest person ever ready to stay without food or water for hours? Of course not (laughs). But the month is a blessing. It helps freshen the mind and soul, bring us closer to our creator and discipline us. I am ready for all it comes with except not drinking water. That scares me every year.