Words By – Yemisi Suleiman

Former Miss Nigeria and Ex- Big Brother Naija housemate, Beauty Tukura is no doubt, having the best time of her life. Asides clinching the Best Dressed Female Awards at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, AMVCA, the Reality Star, who had a somewhat unpleasant exit from Biggies House, recently made a triumphant return to television, with the debut of her Reality TV show My Beautyful Life.
The show which premiered in April, dives deep into the fascinating and glamorous life of Beauty Tukura. It showcases the 43rd Miss Nigeria like never before, with intimate, unfiltered glimpses into her life, relationships and more.
Beauty who studied Law at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, takes us through her glamorous life journey, challenges and lessons therein..

Congratulations on emerging the Best Dressed Female at the AMVCA. Did you see it coming?
Thank you very much. I did not see it coming; although the possibility was there because I entered the competition.

How do you feel and what does it mean to you?
I feel very excited because it means that people appreciate my sense of fashion.

What inspired your look for the AMVCA and how did you sort it out?
The Designer suggested the design and I liked it. I wanted to go for something original and very different from what others would most likely wear. I think I did just that.

How did the idea for My Beautyful Life come about, and what made you decide to venture into reality television?
The idea of My Beautyful Life came to me from Multi – Choice. They offered me the opportunity to be on television again and of course, I took it. Venturing into Reality Television was an easy decision because, Im already a media personality either ways and it was another opportunity for my fans, friends and general supporters to get to know me more intimately, seeing that, I had a short time in the Big Brother House.

Can you share some of the exciting moments or experiences viewers will witness on the show?
The show is generally about my life, the highs and lows. I think every part of the show is an experience because it gives you intimate access into my life. Ill be launching something major at the last episode so you all should watch out.

How would you describe your luxurious, fun, and classy lifestyle to viewers who may not be familiar with it?
When you say luxurious, you make it sound intense. Id like to say that, I identify as the girl next door who is famous. With fame comes certain obligations and responsibilities, and anyone watching, would see me try to navigate all that.

As a former BBNaija housemate, how has your life changed since leaving the show, and how does that play into the concept of My Beautyful Life?
Of course, my life has changed. That is exactly what the Big Brother Show does to one. It changes your life completely and drastically. It gives one more exposure and My Beautyful Life is a continuation of that. More visibility, more exposure and better positioning.

Reality television often involves capturing both the glamorous and challenging aspects of ones life. Will the show also explore any personal or emotional struggles youve faced, or will it mainly focus on the glitz and glam?
The show is a healthy balance of both worlds. It captures the good, the bad and the ugly. The best answer to this question is go watch My Beautyful Life.
What message or impression do you hope viewers take away from watching My Beautyful Life?
I hope that the viewers see the work that goes in behind the scenes. A lot of people see the glitz and glam but they dont see the process, work and time that goes into it. The life of a celebrity is not an easy one and the show captures just that. I want people to watch and learn that it takes real work, dedication and focus to grow even in the entertainment industry.

Reality shows are sometimes criticized for being scripted or staged. How can viewers be assured that My Beautyful Life truly showcases an honest and unscripted portrayal of your life?
My Beautyful Life is the REAL in reality tv. Sometimes, I wonder if people can even handle the realness. I have a large personality and one would see all aspects of that on the show. When you watch it, you would realise that there is no script in play.

In what ways do you think your show will stand out from other reality shows in the same genre?
My Beautyful Life is unique because its extremely relatable. Im not trying to sell a lie but show everyone what life as a Nigerian celebrity is about. Ive never portrayed myself as perfect but even with all the imperfections, I keep moving and growing. Thats what makes My Beautyful Life special.

Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories, funny moments that happened or challenges during the filming of the show?
One time, I was filming and my wig flew out of the boat. That was hilarious.

How do you balance maintaining your privacy while still opening up your life to the cameras for My Beautyful Life?
Honestly, its not been easy still having a private life while filming a reality tv show because I have cameras all up in my face almost everyday, round the clock. I balance it by not over sharing. I dont let everything out at once.

Given the luxurious nature of your lifestyle, do you think the show accurately represents the realities of everyday life for most people, or is it more aspirational in nature?
To be honest, its a little bit of both. You can relate to some of my struggles especially people who are into brand influencing like I do, and its aspirational for the young ones coming up, who aim to occupy this same space in the future. Its a healthy balance.

Are there any specific life lessons or valuable insights you hope viewers will gain from watching your show?
Yes, there are. Most importantly, it is not giving up, and believing in ones abilities regardless of whatever situation life throws at you. There is a lesson of taking accountability and moving on positively. There is a lot to learn really.

How involved were you in the production and creative process of My Beautyful Life? Did you have a say in the content and direction of the show?
Yes, I was heavily involved. My Producer gave me room to share my ideas and be a part of the process. I have learnt so much about television and media from this project and process.

As a public figure, how do you handle the scrutiny and criticism that may come with being in the spotlight, especially in the context of a reality show?
Scrutiny and Criticisms are part of the lifestyle. Being a celebrity means that you give people access to have opinions about your life; so, its fine. I signed up for it.

What are your future plans and aspirations beyond My Beautyful Life? Do you see yourself continuing in the reality TV space or exploring other avenues?
I have a lot of future projects lined up from fashion to hospitality and humanitarian activities. Yes, I see myself continuing in the Reality TV Space and still exploring other avenues. As long as one has life, there are endless possibilities and opportunities.

You obviously have a very good sense of style. What does style mean to you?
Thank you. Style to me is just being you. Its comfort and representation of who you are as a human being. It can be a form of expression too.

What do you love about fashion?
I love everything about fashion but most importantly, the ability to transform and be whatever you feel like just by dressing up.

Who is your style icon?
Rihanna. She creates her own style and trends.

There is so much going on about body enhancement, what wont you do in the name of beauty?
I am very comfortable in my skin, body and beauty. I dont think Ill be doing anything.

What makes you smile and what scares you the most about life?
Helping others, being around friends and family and the love from my BeeNavy. I’m afraid of leaving the world without impact.

What is your greatest strength and weakness?
My greatest strength is my family and I dont have a weakness. I have deleted that word from my vocabulary.