The beautiful and down-to-earth Mimi Ceesay Janha is undoubtedly one of the most successful Gambian models in the diaspora. In 2009 she appeared in an advert for Blackberry, an internationally recognized telecommunication and wireless equipment company.  In this interview, Mimi tells us more about herself and her career. 

What’s On-Gambia: Who is Mimi? 

Mimi: Mimi Ceesay Janha is an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an advocate, a humanitarian, a model/actress. 

How would you describe your recent visit to the country? 

It was very productive. I enjoyed spending time with my family and friends. 

Tell us about your fashion shop on Kairaba Avenue? 

Is M.H.C for Mimi's Hot Couture. We are in the business of providing great quality fashion at an affordable price. 

How do you deal with success and what keeps you grounded? 

Hmm success? That word is too big for me (laughs). All I’m trying to do is to contribute to society with the little Allah is blessing me with. To me I’m just a lil lady with a vision. 

What started your interest in becoming a model? 

Modeling to me was more of expressing your emotions through the lens of a camera. Growing up, I was very shy, still I’m (laughs). The only way I use to communicate was taking directions from clients and bring the project to life. Modeling was an outlet for me to have the Face and Voice of representing The Gambia, My home Land. 

From modelling to acting, how has the transition been?

Like I always say, nothing in life comes easy. It was and still a rocky journey, from modeling which I’m ok at, to this whole new way of life and taking directions from the greatest people in the industry, is crazy but feels great. 

How has modeling influenced your acting? 

Modeling and acting goes hand in hand, is all about taking directions and making the best out of it. 

What do you like about Hollywood? 

Hollywood is one place, when Allah opens the door for you to get in, the opportunities are endless. I love the dream of becoming a Hollywood star (laughs). 

Now to the big question – are you a Hollywood actress? 

All she can say is that, she is working her butt off to get to that level (laughs). Hopefully one day Insha Allah. Keep me in all your prayers. 

What does being Gambian in the industry mean to you? 

It means I have a huge responsibly not only to my family, but to all the young Gambian girls that look up to me as their role model. I pray to Allah every day to make me a better role model for my brothers and sister. It’s crazy knowing that every decision I make, is not only affecting me and my family but a generation of young Gambians. So I have no room to mess up (laughs). I rejected many featured roles, because of that. 

Are you married? 

Yes, happily married with a 16 month old little boy, so blessed to have him. He is the light to my soul (laughs). Is that even a description? It just means I love him with all of me. #proudmama 

What would be your top 5 all-time favorite Hollywood films? 

1- The Devil Wears Prada

2-The Help

3-The Godfather

4-Speed

5-Set it Off 

What sort of music do you enjoy listening to? 

I love house music, country, R&B, hip-hop, jazz, I just love music period (laughs). I dance to every song. 

What are you working on now? 

Lips tight (laughs) – can’t say much, but I promise will definitely keep you guys posted Insha Allah. 

“Five years from now Mimi will be...” 

Hopefully to be the best mother to my son. Maybe, just maybe to snatch that Oscar feature role (laughs). She dreams big! 

Thanks for the interview! 

The pleasure is all mine, thank you for having me. Stay bless and keep shinning brother. You make us all proud. Thumps up!