An exclusive conversation with the smart, suave, sexy and talented international top model, actor, A-lister socialite and TV personality about his achievements, journey, life and challenges. We also indulge him in some trivia - all in the name of a Chai Latte.
A global personality, Colin Mathura-Jeffree has worked extensively as an international model, gracing the runways of iconic fashion houses and shooting for international fashion titles before making the transition to television. Well-known for his work as an actor, presenter and spokesperson, Colin now commands an influential brand in New Zealand and beyond. Colin has modelled for a number of prestigious fashion magazines and designers, at the height of which he led the runway finale for Versace. Colin also has extensive experience in editorial and campaigns representing brands such as Schweppes, Lindauer, Chelsea Sugar, Bajaj Spirit Motorbikes, Tourism Australia, Tahiti and New Zealand Newmarket Business Association.
An international actor and television presenter, Colin is best known as host of New Zealand’s Hottest Home Baker, judge on New Zealand’s Next Top Model and guest judge on America's Next Top Model. He has been on our TV screens and airwaves because of his recent shock elimination from the ‘Dancing With the Stars’.
Having walked the Red Carpet at the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame, we thought it was the perfect time to have a Chai Latte with Colin. Amongst other things, here are the highlights of what we chatted about:
Maya: Colin it’s so wonderful to feature you in the opening column of Chai Latte with Maya. There are so many guesses around this one, so please start with telling us about your heritage?
Colin: I'm an Anglo Indian, which means I'm of Indian & British ancestry.
I think I look a lot like my mother. I guess the tiger in me is definitely from my Malayalam heritage, as is my intelligence. The first mistake people assume is because I'm a model that I might not be intelligent. From my father I get my muscular legs.
Maya: So how and where did it all start?
Colin: I was discovered to model on my first day walking up Queen Street going to Auckland University. From that day onwards in 1991 people kept asking me to model. I think it was an era of change. Naomi Campbell was on the scene as a Supermodel and by 1992 the world fell in love with powerfully athletic Madhu Sapre who should have won Miss Universe. When I met her in India I thanked her for my career boost.
Maya: Describe your journey so far.
Colin: My life is an incredible adventure. I never live in fear of being ambitious. There is a world of new experiences. When I was first discovered to be a model I realised it was such a new creative way to see the world and when the industry invited me to India I was so beyond excited. 24 years later I'm still going strong. TV presenting, acting, modelling and writing. I'm living my dream.
Maya: What have been your most significant achievements?
Colin: Besides being naturally happy, I think I paved the way for a stronger ethnic presence in modelling versus the cultural cliché. Being recognise a strong model in India, with covers of magazines and adverts as powerful as Bajaj Spirit Motorbikes. I also lead the finale for Versace on a flaming catwalk. Was named NZ sexiest Man by Metro Magazine, became the face of Tourism NZ in 6 commercials for the United States. The Government of the Solomon Islands invited me personally to represent them as Head Judge at the prestigious Miss South Pacific Beauty Pageant. When I asked "why me" they said that I'm modern fun and successfully influential and from the South Pacific.
Maya: Tell us about your philanthropic work.
Colin: I'm very supportive of charities. If placed in a situation when you can support people then you must do it. It's an attribute I was taught from my Mother Rosalie, Father Clifford and Grandmother Catherine Singh.
When the Christchurch earthquake happened I supported in many ways like paying for flights of people who couldn't afford to leave.
I enjoy charities. I'm New Zealand's first Champion for Dementia.
Maya: What have been some of your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
Colin: Racism. Coming from a multicultural background I could never get my head around discrimination. 2 years ago I walk out of a VIP charity event here in Auckland when the CEO of this charity sneered at me and said I must be overwhelmed being able to sit at the head table while my people are there, as she motioned her hand I thought she meant the newsreaders and TV personalities at another table, and she scoffed at pointed again and I looked beyond them at the waiters, all Indian. My fury was enormous and I said I'm leaving, to which the lady said I can't and blocked my path, I calmly said step aside or I'll move you. I was so disgusted I went straight to my mother’s house and told her what happened. My mother said I should've walked out with all the waiters and paid their wages myself. It's ok to think you can challenge me on my race but I'm proud of my Indian heritage. That woman is nothing in my eyes.
Maya: Tell us about ‘Dancing With The Stars’ experience.
Colin: I was courted many times by Media works to do it and had the most incredible fun. It's such hard work. You train every day for the live show.
I was lucky to be teamed up with the National Champion Kristie Williams and instantly we were titled Bollywood and Hollywood because of our looks. There was a shock elimination and it was us. New Zealand has given us such incredible support and the outcry has been most amusing. Many of us celebs never had the vehicle to garner votes like the radio hosts and that's where we became collateral damage. Though we accept our fate graciously we can day we had a lot more to offer.
The best part is I made a life-long friend in Kristie. She had never been to an Indian event and the awards show was a highlight to her. Especially meeting the Prime Minister John Key.
Maya: It was all going well till the shock elimination. Quite clearly all of New Zealand is pretty upset with the decision. I really think the two of you need to come back like a “wild card entry” of sorts. It would have been such a treat to watch the intended Bollywood number.
So where to from here?
Colin: Currently I'm seen in the advertising of Newmarket's Auckland Style of Living campaign and an Ambassador for Sky City. When I was finally convinced to do DWTS, I asked the brand FAMOUS VODKA, which I am the face of, if we can delay the international shoot. We will be shooting in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. I signed a multi-year year contract. Also I'm being courted to host some TV shows. I'm very picky. It's about quality not quantity.
Maya: What’s your message for our readers?
Colin: Life is an adventure. Surround yourselves with people that lift you up and not pull you down and you will always fly.
Trivia:
Full Name: Colin Mathura-Jeffree
Date of Birth: May 12 1972
Favourite Colour: Blue
Favourite food: Spicy
Favourite Hangout: anywhere with friends
I am in my element when: Laughing and causing trouble...I'm a prankster.
I am the happiest when: Kissing.
What breaks my heart?: Cruelty. I don't tolerate bullies. Also sadness. We should love and support each other a lot more.
I usually smell of: Jo Malone Cologne. I'm in love with their fragrances.
I am very particular of: people. I seek the good in everyone but I don't suffer fools. I make a good friend and a formidable enemy.
I want to be remembered as: Happy....maybe a little naughty and definitely a fearless grid breaker.
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