A unique platform to highlight and celebrate the dynamism in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria is here. Powered by Swiss-based Nigerian super model and professional make-up artist Stella Oganwu, the ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition,’ themed: “Bridging Cultures, Defining Trends,” will bring together leading designers, beauty experts, and industry professionals from both countries to showcase their products and services and also recognise talented and creative Nigerians. Stella, who is the CEO of Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, an upscale beauty and fashion firm, shares the inspiring story of her exploits in the modeling, beauty and fashion space with Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA
Barring any last minute changes, the ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition,’ aimed at celebrating the dynamism in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria will hold in Maryland, Lagos, Nigeria, on Thursday, July 3rd 2025.
The landmark event will bring together the sophistication of Swiss fashion with the bold vibrancy of Nigerian design in an unforgettable showcase of global creativity while supporting the less privileged ones in the society and recognising talented and creative persons around Nigeria.
The high-profile even is on the beehive of Swiss-based Nigerian super model and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, a beauty and fashion firm, Stella Oganwu, whose professional experience is mainly in the areas of customer service and advice for cosmetics, perfumery, and hair-styling.
Stella, a professional make-up artist, told The Nation that the event which objective is to foster cultural exchange and collaboration between Switzerland and Nigeria, will also provide the platform for Swiss and Nigerian beauty and fashion brands to showcase their products and services.
It will bring together leading designers, beauty experts, and industry professionals from both countries and recognise all creatives and talented people (models, hairstylists, make-up artists, dancers, singers, comedians, photographers, videographers, creative directors, project managers, fashion Designers etc.).
Giving more insights into the event, Stella informed The Nation that the exhibition will feature fashion shows, showcasing the latest collections of Nigerian designers; beauty demonstrations & workshops, featuring Stelwith_Class Cosmetics’ innovative products and techniques, as well as insights from Nigerian beauty experts.
There will also be exhibition booths displaying a range of beauty and fashion products, accessories, and services; networking sessions to facilitate connections between industry professionals, influencers, and potential customers; and cultural fusion, blending Swiss precision and innovation with Nigerian vibrancy and creativity.
Stella, who is also a modeling coach, with passion for fashion, styling and accessories, said Switzerland offers Nigeria valuable lessons in economic resilience and political stability through its decentralized federalism.
She noted that Switzerland’s success stems from its strong federal system that empowers cantons (states) and communes (municipalities), allowing for greater diversity and participation in decision-making.
The globally acclaimed make-up artist and modeling coach said Nigeria can learn from Switzerland’s model by devolving more power and responsibilities to states and local governments, thereby promoting a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
She further stated that Nigeria can borrow a leaf from Switzerland’s strong economic and social policies that prioritise education, research, and innovation, creating a highly skilled workforce that drives economic growth. Nigeria, she said, can invest in education and infrastructure to foster innovation, attract foreign investment, and reduce its reliance on oil.
Also, Nigeria, she said, can draw a lesson from Switzerland’s commitment to rule of law and international cooperation, as Switzerland’s commitment to strict rule of law fosters a stable and predictable environment for businesses and citizens.
The West-central European country’s active engagement in international cooperation, according to Stella, also fosters partnerships with other countries on various issues, including migration, development, and security.
She said Nigeria can strengthen her judicial system, combat corruption, and improve law enforcement to create a more stable and trustworthy environment for economic and social development.
Explaining the event’s charity focus on the less privileged ones, Stella said: “The less privileged children are those that are forgotten and has no voice or care. If you go to the street, you will notice that a lot of children are without homes, parents, clothes and food. The orphans, the disabled and the children on the street are my main focus.
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“We will offer them food, clothes, support them in any way we can for shelter by the grace of God. We will do more as God leads us and also from our supporters, sponsors and partners in future. This will take place annually by the grace of God.”
Women empowerment is no less prioritised by this seasoned beauty and fashion entrepreneur. As she emphasised, “Women need to be heard because I feel their voices are not being heard.
“Women are very important and they are good leaders too. In our country, they don’t look down on women but give them the chance to lead. We are all human, be it men and women. We all deserve to lead.”
In this wise, she debunked claims in some quarters that modeling is a vocation laced with immorality, particularly for young ladies. “Modeling is not supposed to be seen in this way because it is a talent and we all have our talent that should not be misunderstood. We have different kinds of modeling e.g. runway, commercial, editorial, fashion, lingerie, petite, plus size, erotic, body part, body painting, swim wear, promotional, mature, fitness and hair models.
“As a child of God, we can be models in an appropriate way. In all these models’ types, we have our choice to make what suits our talent. My advice to upcoming young models is to follow their dreams and be very careful. Let their parents give them the guidelines they need by working them into the right parts so they don’t get carried away by money.
“When I say money, I mean the ones that pay very well are those that make people think modeling is immorality. They will pay you so well that at the end you will feel that’s the best, but it’s not because at the end, exposing your body with great pay can’t be erased. It’s forever out there. Choose wisely and be patient, it will pay off no matter how long it takes.”
A good team player, with an open and radiant personality, Stella, who rose to fame and fortune in the beauty and fashion industries in both Switzerland and Nigeria, sure spoke from experience, having kept her head high and managed to navigate through the rough paths of life despite losing her mother at a tender age.
“I want to say thanks to God Almighty for always directing my paths and decisions that I make. Life can be rough but understanding the truth of life matters. When things become difficult for you, it’s a push to keep working hard because the best is waiting for you in front by the grace of God and strength,” she said.
Sharing more success nuggets, Stella said: “Success can’t be achieved without failing, disappointments, mistakes and patience. Anything you get in a rush or in a deceitful way will not last and you can’t see any good coming out from it because it’s not the right way and in the sight of God is not pleasant.
“You need to be patient, work hard, no matter how challenging it looks, believe God that at his own right time He will show you mercy and you will be surprised. God’s time is the best. It might look very far or long but it is worth waiting by obeying and doing His will.”
Effortlessly beautiful, conscientious and responsible, Stella is a well-organised beauty and fashion entrepreneur and a model who is able to work independently. A strong believer in her Nigerian heritage and African heritage, she declared: “I love my county, Nigeria. I am a proud Nigerian any day any time.
“Let’s not forget, home will always be home. No matter where I go, I would have my home as my establishment place by the grace of God.”
While her up-coming ‘Swiss/Nigeria Beauty and Fashion Exhibition’ will generate significant brand exposure for her Stelwith_Class Cosmetics, it will also create a unique and engaging experience for attendees ultimately, leaving a lasting imprint on the global fashion and beauty map.