Ronald Chinedu Mmeka is one of those who believes in following their passion. That is why he decided to become a makeup artist rather than work with his major educational degrees.
After his secondary education at the Federal School of Science and Technology, Yaba, Lagos, he went further to study at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State where he had a Diploma in Social Work and a B.Sc in Sociology and Anthropology.
Ronald was born into a beautiful nuclear family of six and grew up in Lagos. In this interview, he took us through the rudiments of makeup, and why it is necessary to wear one.
Why did you decide to deviate from your course of study?
I didn’t decide to deviate. To be honest, I have always loved entertainment with major focus on beauty and fashion. I just decided to stop procrastinating and start. While in school, I worked with NTA Amawbia on a programme called “Generation Next”- Beauty and Style. That was majorly covering red carpet moments, makeup, etc. While doing that I realized I loved talking about how these celebrities wore their makeup. Fast forward to graduation? I decided to start it already, I did the MBFA beauty pageant and a host of others.
What does it take to be a makeup artist?
It takes a lot of passion, drive and the interest in the art.
What are the tips for a basic makeup?
Tips for a basic makeup, I would say, is a properly blended foundation, powder, and mascara. You can never go wrong with a good eyeliner.
What is the latest trend in makeup, including the colours?
Trends in makeup include- lip glosses, highlighters, boy brows (runway), liquid liners, and metallic eyes.
What is the difference between night, day, stage, and bridal makeup?
The difference is that bridal makeup is and should be very subtle, radiantly glowing to enable the bride look just herself, but enhanced, while stage makeup is theatrical makeup used to represent characters, or assist in creating appearances.
Night makeup is usually heavier, a little more dramatic than the day makeup.
What is the essence of wearing a makeup?
The essence of wearing a makeup is to look better than your actual self (before the make up). That’s why I still prefer to enhance people’s looks as opposed to over doing it. It’s you, but better; it breeds confidence. Once a woman feels confident, she’s comfortable and she can do whatever she wants.
How lucrative is the business?
Very lucrative, if you know your onions.
What is your advice to those who wear loud makeup to the office?
Stop it; You can never go wrong with subtle makeup. By the way, it’s an office not a red carpet. One needs to understand that it should be as minimal as possible. It’s a working environment.