Perhaps he’s caught your eye from a billboard, GQ spread, TV show or the catwalk… One look at Kibwe McGann and you’re instantly taken. Whether it be his infectious smile or magnetic personality, there is something that makes him stand out amongst the pack. His parents were confident that he’d exude such an energy, with the forethought to name him Kibwe Zwadie - which signifies blessed leader.
Previously a Saint International model, McGann traveled the world, working with some of the most famous faces, photographers and publications internationally. The first Jamaican model to be signed to the prestigious Elite Modeling Agency, McGann quickly became a household name in South Africa. Snagging the coveted Puma Jamaica campaign, the company says that his 'transcontinental appeal' won out over his fellow fresh- faced competitors.
Seamlessly transitioning from print to TV, McGann hosted regional entertainment shows on RE-TV and CVM in Jamaica before gaining national exposure on BETJ. As the host and producer of ‘Wicked Style,’ he credits the show with allowing him to spread his creative wings and explore his true calling.
"Every time I would be on a set or on a commercial, which I did a lot of, I would always wonder what's going on with the cameraman. What's going on behind the scenes cause it seemed much more interesting,” McGann recently shared.
Kibwe McGann is focused on his latest venture set to air on Centric network in 2010. ‘Caribbean Splash,’ is a lifestyle program in partnership with Ocean Style Magazine, “that follows 3 of the Caribbean’s hottest women as they explore the regions, music, cuisine, attractions, stays, and beaches,” he explains.
When asked where he sees himself in the near future, Kibwe calmly responds, “…living in L.A. and competing on the big stage for prime time network TV spots.” With his track record, his next destination is easy to imagine. Ocean Splash! caught up with the budding media mogul as he stepped into our Coffee Shop...
What is your favorite piece of clothing that's hanging in your closet?
My favorite clothing item is my Carlton Brown black blazer. It goes with everything. Its not hanging in my closet, its on the back seat of my car- just in case I'm caught off guard for an event... (laughs)
One thing that gets you through Monday mornings?
A cup of hot chocolate (Swiss Miss) and early morning cartoons: Ben 10, Avatar, Naruto. In fact, this gets me through most mornings.
Your favorite hotel?
Sans Souci! I love their spa and that jungle-forest feeling you get when you look out through the grand French windows from your Jacuzzi...(or maybe that was just my room).
If your life had a theme song what would it be?
I think I’d have to pen this one. The song hasn't been written yet.
If you only had 3 hours in your most favorite city in the world what would you do?
Jet Skiing in Camps Bay in Cape Town, South Africa…a quick bite after at Primi Piatti with friends, and a cup of hot chocolate to send me on my way
Do you have fashion alter ego?
I think every performer, has an alter ego. For me it’s not necessarily defined by a name change. I often referred to myself in the 3rd person "the Kibwe likes this…" As I no longer model, 'the Kibwe' now resides in the corridors of my ear, never revealing himself to others, but more like a whispering dosage of truth, " ..the Kibwe hates this scene.”
What are your top 3 favorite children's names?
I haven't reached that far in my evolution. I have never thought about kids. Currently not on my radar.
If you could eat one food in excess, without gaining a pound, what would it be?
Mom's homemade pizza or sweet & sour chicken with white rice!
3 things that you often dream about at night?
I travel often. I have a serious phobia when it comes to flying. Before I travel, I often have plane related nightmares. I also dream of Africa. It’s the one country that I visited that spoke to me. I felt an uncanny sense of peace, almost like I was where I was supposed to be. My other dreams include some form of television production; usually whatever project I’m working on. I dream about the sequence of events and the possibilities.
One luxury item that you could do without if giving it back would help to boost the economy?
My i-pod!
Your favorite mantra?
No such word as can't
Favorite indulgence?
The movies. It's a must do- every Wednesday and Sunday. I need to see what's at the box office.
What makes you feel sexy?
I'm not quite sure; not very accustomed to thinking I'm sexy. If I had to, I'd say clothing would do the trick, maybe a fitted Carlton Brown black suit.
Do you believe in Twitter?
I tweet 24/7. My tweeples (friends) will tell you. If you want to know where I am and what I'm doing, just follow me on Twitter. Twitter is the evolution of communicating with your friends.
Best thing about living in Jamaica?
The party culture and vibe. I love our music, the lyrics are controversial, but the rhythm and infectious beats speak to you on the dance floor. That coupled with our culture and the tropical vibe, makes Jamaica an exciting arena for fun.
One action sport that you want to try
I have never been snow boarding. Aspen, Colorado is a must! As for an action sport that I'd never try - skydiving. That's an unnecessary flight, and with my fear of flying, that’s just not happening.
Favorite fine dining restaurant in the Caribbean?
Jade Garden in Kingston. Jamaica makes some of the best Chinese food I’ve ever tasted. No matter what country I visit, I try their Chinese first and compare it to Jamaica's. I'm dying to do Beijing - just to try their food.
2 turn major turn-ons and offs when dating?
Turn offs:
1) A girl that can't dress. No matter how good you look, poor wardrobe taste is a deal breaker
2) Teeth. With modern dentistry there should be no excuse for having a jacked up smile.
Turn ons:
1) A girl that can dress will always have my undivided attention
2) I love a polished, classy woman. MAJOR turn on.
Favorite cologne?
As a model the designers preferred that you not to wear cologne, as not to leave your scent on their clothes. To this day, I still don't wear it. When I did - almost a decade ago- I was a huge fan of Issey Miyake and Cool Water; when you wore either of them women hugged you twice!
If you could walk in the shoes of one person who would it be?
I'd love to have walked in Mandela's shoes (preferably at an accelerated pace during his imprisonment. 27 years in prison seems a bit harsh for a voluntary shoe swap). I would want to feel what it was like to motivate an entire nation, become a global icon and a man that stood for freedom, justice and determination. On the day that he was elected as the first black president of South Africa, must have been a priceless and humbling experience.
3 things that you always buy from the grocery store
1. A gallon of Orange Juice
2. A Hershey's chocolate -almond bar
3. Lucky Charms cereal
