MEET HER: THE BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED CATHOLIC MUSICOLOGIST-VICTORIA ONOZASI AJIMAH (MODELA).

The T-Talent Spotlight series comes in three categories for now; including the Talent Series, Vibrant Catholic Youth Series and Catholic Youth Animator Series. For this edition of the T-Talent Series, the popular young catholic vocalist, and pioneer of the classical Afro pop genre, Music producer, vocal coach and many more has decided to meet our crew! What have you heard about her? This interview will inspire alot of youths out there especially young ladies aspiring to explore their God given talents. Enjoy!

T-Talent Spotlight Interview

Meet Victoria Onozasi Ajimah (Eleas Modelà)

1. In a few words, who is Victoria Onozasi Ajimah (Eleas Modelà)?

I am a professional singer, vocal pedagogue and coach, music producer, choir director, and the pioneer of the Classical Afropop genre. I hold an MA in Vocal Studies from the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance, London, an Advanced Diploma in Choral Singing from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), London, as well as graded certifications in Piano and Music Theory. My journey began in the Catholic Church, where I first discovered my voice and developed a deep appreciation for sacred and classical music. Today, I combine my passion for artistic excellence, education, and faith to inspire audiences through music while helping others discover and develop their own voices.

2. When did you discover your gift for music, and what inspired you to use it for God?

I discovered my gift for music at a very young age, probably around the age of seven or eight, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Ashipa, Odo ona elewe, Ibadan. I was so small that the choir would place a footstool in front of them for me to stand on whenever I conducted. Looking back, that was one of the earliest signs that music would become a major part of my life. This passion for music was further cemented during my time at the Ibadan Catholic School of Music, where my theoretical, liturgical, and practical understanding of music was profoundly developed.

As I grew older, I realized that my voice was more than a talent.. it was a calling. Seeing how my singing touched people’s hearts and drew them closer to God inspired me to dedicate my gift to His service. One thing that continues to make me happy is knowing that through music, I can inspire, encourage, and uplift people regardless of where they come from or what they may be going through.

3. What role has your Catholic faith played in shaping your music and ministry?

My Catholic faith has played a significant role in shaping both my music and my artistic identity. I grew up in a devoted Catholic home, and my father ensured that faith was at the center of our lives. Through attending Mass, prayer meetings, and participating actively in the Church choir, I was exposed to sacred music from an early age.

Interestingly, I originally trained as an opera singer, and many of the musical qualities that define my voice today were first nurtured through the Church. Even when I explore other musical styles, I often find myself returning to those roots because they have become part of who I am as an artist.

My faith guides my values, influences the message behind my music, and reminds me that my talent is a gift entrusted to me by God. It also motivates me to keep learning and improving so that I can use my voice more effectively in His service.

4. Is there a Bible verse, saint, or quote that guides your life? Why?

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

This verse reminds me that every achievement, opportunity, and challenge can be overcome through God’s grace. It keeps me grounded and reminds me that my strength ultimately comes from Him.

The Journey

1. What has been the most memorable moment of your music ministry so far?

One of the most memorable moments of my musical journey was performing in Italy as a soloist with the MUSON Diploma Choir, representing Nigeria. It was a life-changing experience that exposed me to a broader musical audience and affirmed the value of years of dedication and training.

2. What message do you hope people receive whenever they hear you sing?

I hope people experience God’s love, peace, and presence whenever they hear me sing. Beyond enjoying the music itself, I want them to feel encouraged, inspired, and drawn closer to Christ.

3. What challenge have you faced as a Catholic artist, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing my professional artistic identity with my ministry. While many people know me through Church music, I am also a professionally trained singer whose work extends beyond sacred music.

At times, people struggle to separate my profession from my ministry, or they form opinions based on my appearance or artistic choices. Learning to embrace both sides of who I am has been a journey. I have come to understand that artistic excellence and spiritual authenticity do not have to compete with each other. They can coexist beautifully when grounded in purpose and integrity.

4. What does success feel like, and has it affected your spiritual journey in any way?

For me, success is fulfilling God’s purpose and using my gifts faithfully. It has taught me humility and gratitude because every achievement reminds me that all glory belongs to God.

As a singer, I have reached a stage where singing is no longer just about showcasing vocal ability. It is about interpreting every note, telling a story, and touching people’s hearts. Whenever someone tells me they felt God’s presence, found peace, or were encouraged through my singing, I consider that a success.
It has positively influenced my spiritual journey by allowing me to contribute to evangelization through music, which is something I consider a privilege.

It has affected my spiritual journey positively by drawing me closer to the liturgy. Over the years, singing and studying the Psalms have helped me internalize them, making the Liturgy of the Word a much richer and more meaningful experience for me and deepening my understanding of the words of the Bible.

5. What is the one thing you will always thank God for?

I will always thank God for the opportunity to serve Him through my voice.

6. Name two persons in the Catholic Church who inspired and contributed significantly to your journey.

The first would be Rev. Fr. Dr. Jude Okelue, the former director of the Ibadan Catholic School of music. He nurtured, challenged, and encouraged me to pursue excellence in music.

The second would be the late Rev. Fr. Fintan Daly, who loved and supported my music journey wholeheartedly. He constantly encouraged me, promoted my music, and believed in my potential. May his soul continue to rest in peace.

Inspiring the Youth

1. What advice would you give to young Catholics who want to develop and use their talents for God?

Discover your gifts, develop them with discipline, and never stop learning. Talent alone is not enough. I have invested years of study and significant resources into understanding my voice, improving my craft, and becoming a better teacher and musician.

Never underestimate the impact your talent can have when combined with prayer, hard work, humility, and a willingness to keep growing.

2. In one sentence, what is your vision for Catholic youths today?

My vision is to see Catholic youths become confident disciples who use their gifts and talents to transform society and glorify God.

3. Do you think we need more initiatives like the Ten Talents Initiative in the Catholic Church? Why?

Absolutely. Initiatives like the Ten Talents Initiative help young people discover, nurture, and showcase their God-given talents while promoting leadership, community, and service within the Church.

I have often said that the Church does not always do enough to spotlight and celebrate its talented young people. That is why I am particularly impressed by the work of the Ten Talents Initiative. It is creating opportunities for talented individuals to be seen, appreciated, and encouraged.

Final Words

1. What message would you like to leave with our readers and fellow Catholic youths?

Never be afraid to answer God’s call in your life, and never be afraid to use the gifts He has given you. Stay close to Christ, remain faithful in prayer, pursue excellence, and trust that God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people who surrender themselves to His service.

I strongly believe that talent is a gift from God. What you choose to do with that gift is your way of giving back to Him.

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