Mode Around the Globe: Christine Obanor

Mode Around The Globe: Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Christine Obanor
@christineobanor

Photography by Hannah Rozelle @hannahrozelle_
Videographed by Estevão Mendes @stevotake

Location: Grand Velas Riviera Maya
www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com
@grandvelasmaya

Looking back on your journey so far, what experience pushed you the most outside of your comfort zone?
The experience that pushed me the most was my upbringing. I didn’t grow up with money, but I grew up with a heart that yearned for more, and that became my fuel. I always believed I deserved a life better than my circumstances, not only for myself but for my family. With the help of God, I was able to get to where I am today.

Your energy really resonates with people online. What part of your personality do you feel comes through the most in your content?
I love letting my unfiltered thoughts show in my content. I have always had a goofy personality, but I used to be too shy and too concerned about what other people thought to let that side of me show. I remember in elementary school, when I was simply being myself, a girl called me weird. I went home and told myself I would not talk at all the next day. It was a hard promise to keep, but for a long time I tried to shrink myself to avoid being judged. Now I have reached a place where I no longer care what people think, and that has removed the wall that once stood between me and sharing my raw personality with the world.

What’s something you’ve recently discovered about yourself that surprised you?
I recently discovered how much happier I am when I stop caring so much about the logistics of social media. People think being an influencer is easy, but beyond the work it can be really heavy on your mental health because you are constantly seeking validation. I used to be that person. Letting go of that grip has been freeing and it has allowed me to create and exist without worrying about who is watching.

When you feel creatively stuck, what helps you reconnect with your inspiration?
I love spending time with Jesus through prayer and reading my Bible in the morning. I usually keep my content notebook nearby because when I am in that quiet place, so many ideas come to my mind. I quickly write them down so those ideas can turn into something real.

What kind of impact do you hope to make through your work in the years ahead?
I hope that every person who crosses paths with me can see my light. I want to grow beyond simply volunteering. I want to directly help change people’s lives. I may not know exactly what the logistics will look like yet, but I have the vision, and I trust God to guide the rest.

Is there a creative direction or type of project you’re excited to explore that you haven’t done yet?
You know, I have always joked that I want to be a one hit wonder in both music and a movie. It is a funny little thing I always say, but sometimes I actually consider taking singing lessons just so I can make my one hit wonder. As for acting, I have not really explored it beyond thinking about it, but who knows. Maybe my hit song will inspire someone to book me for a role in a movie.

What does confidence mean to you personally?
Confidence means to love yourself so much that the voices of the people around you are silenced. You can’t tear down a person that wasn’t listening.

How do you usually reset and recharge after a busy stretch of work or travel?
Usually, I would just devote my days to just resting and doing absolutely nothing, but recently I’ve been enjoying the beach and hiking as a good mental reset.

How has your personal style evolved over the years?
The evolution of my personal style could honestly be a whole novel. I remember in high school I used to go thrifting and put together what I thought were very intricate outfits for the time, and people would always tell me, “you can dress.” Looking back, that is actually hilarious, because absolutely not. 

Over the years I realized my style has constantly changed depending on my environment and my age. Just two years ago I wanted everything skimpy as a way of reclaiming my body after being bullied for it growing up. Now as your girl starts pushing 30, I notice myself reaching less for cutouts and crop tops and more for flowy, elegant pieces that are slowly making their way into my closet.

What’s one beauty product or routine that instantly makes you feel put together?
A good skincare routine is all it takes to feel beautiful. If I am feeling a little off about how I look, I make sure my hair is done, do my skincare for that dewy, glowing skin, swipe on some lip gloss, add a little jewelry, and suddenly I feel beautiful and like the ultimate clean girl.

In an industry that moves quickly, what helps you stay focused on what truly matters to you?
I am all about keeping my eyes on my own paper. I have noticed that it is so easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing and feel like you need to do it all. But that only pushes back your own timeline and distracts you from what is truly important.

What’s something you’ve learned about balancing your personal life with being in the public eye?
Not everything needs to be a content moment. I was getting so burnt out feeling like I had to film everything because it is my job. There have been plenty of moments where I just think, “No, I want to live my life without feeling like I have to work. The public can live without seeing me here.”

If you could go back and relive one moment in your career so far, what would it be?
Being on TV has always been amazing. While my faith would shape the experience differently from the shows I have done, I still miss it. I loved the thrill and excitement of my very first reality show, Too Hot To Handle.

Who are the people in your life that keep you motivated and inspired?
My friends and my family keep me grounded and remind me not only of who I am but whose I am.

What’s an outfit or fashion piece that always makes you feel like the best version of yourself?
Jewelry has the power to transform an outfit. I can throw on jeans and a tank top and instantly feel like an IT girl when I start layering my pieces. It really completes and elevates the look.

What are a few essentials you always keep with you when you’re on the go?
A tiny mirror, hand sanitizer, my lip combo of the day, and setting powder and/or makeup brush

What’s a hobby or interest you enjoy that most people wouldn’t expect?
I’m not sure if this counts as a hobby, but I am a huge foodie. Growing up, I always heard, “You look like you don’t eat,” but to be honest, I sometimes eat like my life depends on it. Anything involving food will find me there. And if the day feels boring, going out to eat always makes it better.

When do you feel the most like yourself?
I feel most like myself when I am with my best friends. They understand me and the many phases of my life, so I rarely have to explain anything. They just get me, and I love that about them.

What did you love most about your stay at Grand Velas Riviera Maya?
There were so many things to love, it is hard to pick a favorite. The foodie in me wants to say the food, but I have to say I really enjoyed my time at the pool. The Zen pool in particular was so relaxing and beautiful.

What’s something you’re currently working toward — personally or professionally — that excites you the most right now?
Professionally, I am working on something big that will allow me to speak more, use my voice, and make a greater impact. It is still in the early stages, but I am really excited about it.