Nkemakonam Cynthia Amaizu is calm, thoughtful, and fiercely proud of the Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria crown she wears as the reigning Miss HATMAN. Her journey in the industry is more than just about hospitality, tourism and aviation; it’s about identity, purpose, and heart. She speaks with OMOLOLU OLUMUYIWA about her career, passion and aspirations.
* TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?
My name is Nkemakonam Cynthia Amaizu, a proud indigene of Ifite, Oraifite in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State. I am a hotelier, aviator, tourist, and model, currently holding the prestigious title of Miss HATMAN. I am a graduate of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, where I earned my degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. With a deep passion for service, culture, and excellence, I am driven by resilience, purpose, and a commitment to personal growth. My ultimate aspiration is to become a recognized and influential figure in the hospitality, aviation, and tourism industries, creating meaningful impact and inspiring others in the field. I come from a close-knit family of seven and am the youngest of my siblings, a role that has helped shape my bold, ambitious, and purpose driven nature.
* HOW WAS GROWING UP LIKE FOR YOU?
I was born and brought up in a humble christian roman catholic home in Onitsha , Anambra State. I have four older siblings and I am the last born. Coming from a background that has instilled resilience, humility, and value of uplifting others, growing up for me was a blend of culture, discipline, and discovery. I was raised with strong values, deep rooted traditions, and a drive to stand out. Childhood days memories I can remember vividly was really fun, I behaved the way I was supposed to as a child. I recall each time I looked at a calendar or I saw pictures of commercial models on magazines I would tell my siblings that I wished to be like them when i grow up. I was very dramatic that after watching shows on tele I would try to imitate what I saw on the TV. I didn’t always have it easy, but those early experiences gave me the hunger to explore beyond borders. Every step, shaped the woman I am today: bold, ambitious, and purpose-driven. My parents sets an inspirational example for me teaching me how to live life and make wise choices, even in the most uncertain situations.
* TELL US WHAT YOU DO FOR A LIVING?
I’m a hospitality and tourism professional with hands-on experience in hotel operations, aviation, and destination marketing. I specialize in enhancing guest experiences, managing travel logistics, and supporting tourism development initiatives. As a licensed cabin crew, I’m actively seeking opportunities within Nigeria’s aviation industry, including roles as a corporate or commercial crew member, where I can bring value through professionalism, service excellence, and cultural sensitivity. In addition to my operational background, I serve as the reigning Miss HATMAN, using my platform to promote responsible tourism, cultural heritage, and youth empowerment. My work reflects a strong blend of service, strategy, and storytelling, and I’m eager to bring that energy into a forward-thinking organization.
* WHAT DOES THIS SASH AND CROWN SYMBOLIZES TO YOU?
To me, the sash and crown are far more than ornamental symbols , they are a powerful call to duty and purpose. The crown represents power, leadership, and the honour of serving something greater than myself. The sash tells a story of identity, elegance, and the journey behind the title. Together, they reflect resilience, pride, and the responsibility to lead with meaning. This platform is more than a title, it’s a voice. And as I’ve always done, I will continue to use it to spotlight Nigeria’s tourism, celebrate our rich cultures and heritage, and advocate for meaningful progress in the Hospitality and Tourism industry and the need to promote Hospitality and Tourism Education.
* WHICH BRANDS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO WORK WITH?
While I’m deeply rooted in the hospitality, aviation, and tourism industries, my passion for fashion and creativity is equally strong. I’m actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with reputable fashion brands and designers from runway shows and editorial shoots to brand campaigns and product launches. I bring a unique blend of cultural pride, elegance, and versatility that can elevate both the brand’s image and my own profile. Through these partnerships, I aim to celebrate Nigerian fabrics, styles, and heritage while connecting with diverse audiences and expanding my influence across industries.
* WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS?
In the next five years, I see myself thriving as a well-established professional within the hospitality, aviation and tourism industries. Possibly flying with a leading airline or managing high-level travel and hospitality projects across Africa. I also envision myself evolving into a global voice for African excellence and expanding my influence as a cultural and fashion ambassador, collaborating with global brands to showcase African creativity, heritage, and tourism potential. My mission and ultimate goal is to turn passion into purpose by building a personal brand that not only inspires but also bridges industries, creating opportunities, shaping narratives, and leaving a meaningful impact on the global stage while inspiring the next generation to dream beyond borders.
