Some people wear crowns, while others redefine what they mean. Hannah Onosetale Iribhogbe, also known as Montana, has done both. From the bright lights of international pageantry to the unpredictability of the fashion industry, Montana carries her journey with grace, grit, and a touch of audacity. In this conversation, she shares the moments that shaped her, the lessons she’s learned, and the mindset that keeps her moving forward—whether on the runway, in front of the camera, or carving out new spaces beyond them.
SB: If you had to describe yourself in three runway walk styles—slow-motion elegance, power strut, or fun and flirty—which one are you and why?
Montana: I would describe myself as elegant, power strut, and flirty because these three words best reflect who I am as a person.
SB: What’s a “main character moment” from your life that still makes you smile when you think about it?
Montana: A main character moment that still makes me smile to this day was when I was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2022—and I fell on stage. It lives rent-free in my head!
SB: You’ve represented Nigeria on global stages like Miss Universe and Miss Charm. What has been the most defining moment of your pageantry career so far?
Montana: Both journeys were very different and life-changing in their own ways, but the most defining moment of my pageantry career was placing in the Top 10 at Miss Charm in Vietnam. I was the first Nigerian woman to ever represent Nigeria at that competition, and that means everything to me.
SB: People see the glitz and glamour of pageantry, but what’s something about the experience that really surprised you?
Montana: People don’t see how toxic and difficult the pageant space can be for Queens. The moment you don’t win or place internationally, the fans can become your worst enemy. It’s not as easy as it looks.
SB: If you could create your own pageant category—one that truly reflects your personality what would it be, and what would contestants have to do to win?
Montana: I would create the “Most Memorable Queen” category. This would allow contestants to truly showcase their authentic personalities instead of trying to be prim and proper at all times. Many girls go into pageantry thinking that being reserved is what makes a Queen, but that’s not true. It’s okay to have a strong personality and be outgoing.
SB: From runway to high-fashion shoots, what type of modeling excites you the most, and why?
Montana: I honestly can’t choose just one. A true model expresses herself in all areas, and that’s what excites me the most. As long as you put me in front of a camera, the moment I hear “action,” I’m ready to kill it—whether it’s on stage or in a studio.
SB: You always serve iconic looks! How do you approach styling for major events, and what’s been your most memorable outfit to date?
Montana: For me, styling is all about self-expression. I want people to connect with me through what I wear, because that’s what fashion is. My most memorable outfit would be my finale gown at Miss Charm—an angelic white dress designed by the iconic Vietnamese designer Louiz Tran.
SB: Let’s say you’re creating the ultimate “Hannah Survival Kit” for a pageant or fashion week. What three things are always in that kit?
Montana: This is tough because you need so many things to survive in camp! But I’d say painkillers & multivitamins, my Bible because prayer and God are key, lots of water and snacks (because the eating schedules are exhausting), and lastly, massage cream for my feet—you’ll definitely need it.
SB: Imagine your life is a movie. What’s the title, and who’s playing you?
Montana: Another tough question! I’d title it “The Story of a Legend Never Ends” because the journey to being a star is never finished—there’s always more to uncover. As for who would play me? Nancy Isime—or me, of course!
SB: You wake up and suddenly, you can swap places with any supermodel or beauty queen for a day. Who are you picking, and what’s the first thing you’re doing?
Montana: I’d have to choose between two retired icons—Iman and Bethann Hardison. If possible, I’d go back in time to when they started modeling, take all the notes I could, and learn firsthand how they built careers during a time when being Black in fashion was even harder. Today, they are two of the most successful and respected supermodels in history.
SB: What’s the most random or unexpected compliment you’ve ever received?
Montana: This one is personal, but the first time someone complimented my neck, I didn’t know how to feel. Growing up, I was bullied for being super skinny and having a tiny neck. But now, as an international model, my neck is one of the features that make “Montana” unique.
SB: Pageantry and modeling come with immense pressure. How do you handle the highs and lows of being in the spotlight?
Montana: People will always have something to say about you. Stop trying to be perfect—it doesn’t exist. I block out negativity as much as I can because no matter how good you are, not everyone will love you. I love myself enough to know my dreams are valid, and it’s up to me to achieve them.
SB: What’s a personal mantra or mindset shift that has helped you stay grounded in the fast-paced world of modeling and competitions?
Montana: First, I believe in God, so prayer is key. And I always tell young girls watching me: be your most authentic and audacious self. To win in life, you have to be yourself and have some level of audacity. Modeling is more than just taking pictures—it’s not as easy as it seems. Being pretty will only get you so far. I live by the three B’s: beauty, brains, and brawn. And lastly, there’s only one you, so be the change you want to see in the world.
SB: If your younger self could see you now, what do you think she’d say?
Montana: “Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for believing in yourself when almost no one else did.”
SB: You’ve traveled a lot! Which city felt like it had the best energy, and where do you still dream of visiting?
Montana: As cliché as it may sound, Lagos is one of my favorite cities. The energy is unmatched. My dream destination is Cape Town, South Africa. I haven’t visited yet, but I know it’ll happen soon!
SB: What’s next for you? Are there any industries or ventures you’re excited to explore beyond modeling and pageantry?
Montana: I’m about to get into my acting bag so Nollywood and Hollywood, watch out! There’s a lot that isn’t seen beyond the glitz and glamour. It seems to me that Montana’s story is one of evolution—a constant becoming. From a girl who once questioned parts of herself to a woman who fully owns her journey, she embodies the beauty of transformation. It takes courage to step into the unknown, to embrace both the victories and the challenges, but that’s where growth happens.
In The Sun and Her Flowers, Rupi Kaur explains this through the analogy of butterflies reminding us that transformation is a process, not an instant occurrence. I think Montana has continued to soar because she understands this deeply: that growth is not just about reaching new heights, but about embracing every stage of becoming.
By : Neone Adebayo