Amanda Vimba, often known professionally by her stage name, Mandy Love, is an up and coming model, actress and Instagram influencer. On top of this, she is also an aspiring fashionista and singer. With over 32 000 Instagram followers, it’s easy to see why Mandy’s career is well and truly on the rise.

There’s no doubt that becoming a well-known public entertainer is incredibly difficult, however, there’s a lot about Mandy to suggest that she certainly has what it takes.

Mandy was able to answer a few questions we had about her career and what has shaped her into the person she is today.

Mandy, who or what motivated you to start an Instagram page and pursue a career in the entertainment industry?

What mainly brought me to this career path in entertainment is the recommendation to start modelling from plenty of talented professional photographers in my area. When I was younger, my family and I would take professional portraits every year with different photographers and they all mentioned that I should start modelling because I’m so photogenic. Also, I loved being in front of the camera. When I was around 3 or 4 years old, my father took a photography class and I would pose for his pictures. He would always take great candid shots of me. Even though I was a very hyper child, I never complained about being still in photos because I loved it!

However, I didn’t think much of it at the time because I didn’t know how to get started with modelling. It wasn’t until I was 13 that I properly started my career. A photographer helped me get in touch with the best agencies in my area and help me with my headshots in order to apply and pursue auditions. From there, I was signed and haven’t stopped since!

Now, how I got interested in acting is a whole other story. So, like any other child, I loved watching tv shows and movies. I was so obsessed with different films that I would try to memorise the script of my favourite character and re-enact it for my friends. I used to over-analyse and try to figure out how they made special effects and how the stunts worked. Then, I would look up the actors/actresses to read their bio and get insight into what their personal life was like.

On top of this, I would always watch the behind the scenes to see what it looked like when they filmed. I started my Instagram page to socialise with others and to try and gain more exposure because it’s very important to have social media if you’re in the entertainment industry. It makes it more personal when interacting with fans and also helps with branding yourself so people can see and know what you do.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced thus far in your career?

Some of the biggest challenges I have faced so far in my career is being short. Although I cannot change this it makes it harder to book modelling gigs for major runway shows (like Chanel), high fashion magazines (like Vogue), and the top modelling agencies (like Wilhelmina). Getting casted as a lead role for tv and movies is a challenge for me because casting directors are also looking for a certain look to fit the character. So, if you don’t fit the description, you’re already missing out on many audition opportunities.

Another big hurdle for me was finding legitimate auditions in my area. I come from a small town in the south and they rarely have any major auditions. Most of the time, I was an extra because the casting directors already found their lead roles in the bigger cities.

What would be your favourite “Life Lesson Quote”, and more importantly, how is this quote relevant to your life?

My favourite life lesson quote is this: “Ultimately the path is ours to walk. People may come and go, teach us lessons or learn from us but nobody will or is meant to carry you. The strength and learning you gather on the way prepares you for your destiny”. I find this to be true and relevant to my life because I did not have any support from family or friends to pursue modelling/acting. So, I have really found that you can’t rely on anyone for anything. And like the quote reinforces “people may come and go”, so now I just let them.

What would be your advice to someone trying to become an Instagram influencer? Are there certain tips they should live by?

My advice to those wanting to be an Instagram influencer is to post different pictures or videos consistently with things you are passionate about or talented in. For example, cooking, art, sports, or comedy, etc. Using popular hashtags is a great way for more people to also see, like, or comment on your posts. Engagement is what I consider to be the most important in order to become a successful influencer. So that means your followers should be interacting with you by mainly commenting on your posts and of course liking them.

For example, you could have 45,000 followers but if no one is commenting or liking your posts, then your engagement is very low. However, if you only have 700 followers and get 90 comments and 500+ likes then you have a real loyal following and higher engagement, which could increase because others may see it as great content and share your profile with others. My only tip is to have fun with it and don’t stress out worrying about how many followers you have.

Where have you worked so far (whether it be modelling, acting or singing) and how would you describe the overall experience?

I just recently worked on a tv show pilot, however, I cannot share the details because I signed a non-disclosure agreement. I stared in a training video for first responders for Samaritans Purse. I have walked in a runway show for petite models. And like many actors/actresses, I started off as an extra in television and movies. Currently, I am modelling in boudoir photo shoots. Overall, the experience has been great!! I get an opportunity to do what I love most, which is to travel, meet new people, and have amazing support from my followers!

In your opinion, what are the three most important personal attributes a person needs to thrive in the entertainment industry?

In my opinion, the three most important personal attributes a person needs to thrive in the entertainment industry are as follows. First you must have equanimity (thick skin). You will experience all sorts of criticism, a lot of negativity and possibly even ridicule from people online that you don’t even know. But don’t let these things stop you from pursuing or continuing in the entertainment industry. And always remain professional!

Next I believe you should be confident because It helps with performing and even helps to make you optimistic, despite obstacles you might face. It will be difficult to stay in entertainment if you’re shy or sensitive to negative feedback.

Finally, you must remain humble. No one wants to work with someone rude or unprofessional by exhibiting diva-like behaviour. Otherwise, no one will want to work with you again.

Mandy thank you for your time!

You can follow up with Amanda Vimba (aka Mandy Love at @mandy__love