Mode Around The Globe: Christine Obanor
Mode Around The Globe: Aruba
Christine Obanor
@christineobanor
Photography by Aubrie Danae
@aubriedanaee
Location: Radisson Blu Aruba
www.bluaruba.com
You’ve had such an incredible journey so far — what’s one defining moment that shaped who you are today?
Growing up without much money played a huge role in shaping who I am. It gave me a strong sense of drive and perspective early on. I learned to see my circumstances as temporary rather than defining. I always believed that if someone else in the world was living the life I dreamed of, then it was possible for me too, even if our paths looked completely different. That belief became the foundation that pushed me to create something bigger for myself.
Fans love your confidence and presence. What’s something about your personality people may not know but you wish they did?
I used to be very shy when I was younger and struggled deeply with social anxiety. A lot of my confidence actually came from an alter ego I created for myself, a version of me that I wished I could be. The more I allowed her to show up, the more she stopped being an idea and started becoming my reality. Over time, that version of me didn’t feel separate anymore. She became who I am.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the past year, both personally and professionally?
Personally, the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that it is okay not to be okay. I had been quietly struggling with depression, and avoiding that truth pushed me into a constant state of fight or flight. That eventually turned into anxiety, dissociation, and a shutdown that affected me creatively, socially, mentally, and spiritually. It taught me how important it is to prioritize your mental health the moment you feel it begin to decline, not after it has already taken over.
Professionally, I learned to stop trying to conform into the product or person I thought brands wanted me to be. That mindset only leads to seeking validation and drifting away from authenticity. Once I chose to show up as myself and trust that alignment matters more than approval, I realized that the right opportunities will always find me.
You’re constantly evolving and reinventing yourself. What inspires your creativity and drive the most right now?
My Bible has been my biggest source of inspiration lately because it gives me hope. Chasing your dreams can be exhausting and isolating, but spending time in Scripture and talking to God reminds me of my purpose. It recenters me and gives me the strength to keep moving forward. He’s the only one who has been able to guide me out of the creative block I was stuck in for so long.
When you think about your dream life, where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I see myself married, with at least one of the five children I hope to have. Career-wise, I put less pressure on defining exactly what the future should look like because I don’t want to limit myself. Instead, I focus on building who I am right now. If I keep showing up and doing the work, I trust the next five years will surprise me in ways I may not even imagine yet.
What’s one project or passion you’re currently working on that you’re most excited for fans to see?
I’m really excited to share more of my journey in the modeling world. I’m currently signed to a mother agent after years of struggling to get signed at all. After more than eighty rejections, I’m still standing and still fighting for my dreams. I want to show what perseverance truly looks like and what it means to keep believing in yourself when doors don’t open right away.
Your travel schedule is incredible — what destination has inspired you the most recently, and why?
A recent hotel collaboration in Cabo was incredibly inspiring. I brought my brother with me, and experiencing something so elevated together meant everything. Growing up, my family never traveled due to financial hardships, so moments like that feel powerful. It fueled me to keep working toward a future where experiences like that become normal.
What does a perfect, slow, restful day look like for you?
Being a complete couch potato, watching a movie or show with my best friend, my phone on Do Not Disturb, and eating whatever I’m craving without guilt.
Fashion-wise, how would you describe your style in three words?
Unapologetic, tailored, and versatile.
What’s one beauty or self-care ritual you never skip, no matter how busy life gets?
Skincare — always. Even if I’m exhausted, I never sleep in makeup. There’s always at least a shortened routine. Skincare is non-negotiable.
If you could only bring three items in your handbag for the day, what would they be?
Keys, wallet, and lip gloss — which is honestly my everyday reality!
Fans love your authenticity. How do you stay grounded amidst such a fast-paced career?Staying grounded starts with keeping my eyes on God. I try to stay intentional about my choices, knowing every decision shapes my future. I’ve also learned that comparison truly is the thief of joy. My journey is different, and honoring that perspective keeps me centered.
What’s a misconception people have about you, and what’s the truth?
A big misconception is that I’m someone women need to “protect their men from.” Dating-show dynamics are very different from real life. In real life, I value loyalty deeply. I don’t want what belongs to someone else — I want what is meant for me. Integrity matters to me more than attention.
What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self?
Don’t hold back. Start sooner. Every year spent procrastinating is a year taken from your dream. Nothing needs to be perfect to begin — you just need to begin.
You’ve become such an inspiration to many. Who inspires you the most?
My mother inspires me endlessly. She has always believed in my dreams, even when I doubted myself. My father inspires me too through his perseverance. Everything I do is rooted in wanting to give them the ease and peace they deserve.
What’s your current go-to outfit when you want to feel confident and empowered?
My curls in an afro, heels — because I love being tall — and something short that shows off my long legs. It’s a declaration of stepping back into my power.
What’s something fans would be totally surprised to learn about you?
I’m not the same person people saw on television. I’ve given my life to Christ and am intentionally pursuing purity. This season has been deeply transformative, and I choose to be transparent because I know it can help others.
What’s a personal mantra or quote you live by?
Proverbs 3:5–6 is everything to me. It reminds me to surrender control, trust God, and allow Him to guide my steps.
What did you love most about your stay at the Radisson Blu Aruba?
The customer service — everyone was so kind and welcoming. It truly embodied “One Happy Island.”
What exciting projects or career moments do you have coming up that you’d love to share?
I won’t share too much yet, but I’m currently working on a book that I truly believe will inspire people in a meaningful way.
