Nicky Jamison

32 year old model Nicky Jamison, from East Belfast, is a finalist in this years 'Face of Northern Ireland'. Mum of two boys; Ryan(11) and Joshua(9), she comes from a musical background with 16 years experience as lead singer in local groups 'Kayenne' and 'The Big I Am'. Nicky says 'I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been singing with local bands since the age of 16. It gave me a wonderful outlet for my voice in times when I was otherwise withdrawn'. The step into modelling was a recent and unexpected one, taking the plunge after a battle with illness and the loss of her job as a dental nurse in 2014, but a decision she is delighted to have taken. In the first few months of her modelling experience she has thoroughly enjoyed meeting and working with like-minded and enthusiastic professionals such as antrim based Mua/stylist Paula Graffin, who will be supporting her in her campaign for 'Face of Northern Ireland 2015'. Most recently she has signed to locally run agency 'Role Models NI', and has thrown herself into the thick of it, keen to learn as much as she can from the resources around her. 'I think its so very important to have the backing of an agency in this line of work. Not only do they ensure a level of safety in the field, but also provide a network of encouraging mentors to always give you that little push in the right direction.' Nickys parents, Sharon & Colin Jamison are professional fostercarers and recently picked up an award from Barnardos for 25 years of service. Coming from this background, coupled with being a single parent, Nicky enjoys juggling a busy family life with the freedom, creativity and identity that modelling affords her. 'I was never that girl' she says, 'I was bullied throughout my time at school and have always struggled with my confidence and self-esteem, so I was more than surprised to find how much I enjoyed modelling once I tried it. I was hooked!' She has designs to return to full time education in September, pursuing a degree in Radiotherapy and Oncology-something she has ben resolved to achieve since her illness in 2014. On a rare day off she can be found on the back of a horse or getting lost with the dog. For now though, she is focusing all her energies on fundraising for the competitions chosen charities 'Headway' and 'Downs and Proud', by throwing a charity night at the Hudson Bar Belfast on thurs 28th May, for which she has recieved amazing support from businesses in the Belfast area and beyond, some going as far as to donate £200 vouchers for the grand auction which will be held on the night, as well as live music from her own function band 'The Big I Am'. the Face of Northern Ireland final takes place on Sunday 21st June 2015 in Armagh City Hotel, and although at 32 years old, Nicky is acutely aware of the stiff competition she faces, from younger and more experienced models, she is delighted to be taking this step in her life to make herself and her children proud, and feels priviledged to be able to raise money for these worthwhile causes in the process. 'I am hitting the reset button in my life, moving forward for me, and to be allowed to help local charities at the same time is an incredible honour.'