Models of Diversity

Hi guys, welcome to the first of many blogs from Models of Diversity!

I go by the name of Natalie Gee..a new recruit into the Mod gang!!

I am thrilled to be part of such a influential campaign, as it is something I firmly believe in & hope to be able to give you all an insight into the latest news, castings & events regarding Models of Diversity throughout the fashion world!!

Firstly, a little bit about myself!!

I met Angel Sinclair back in November when I was hosting at her Curves in Couture Show..since then Angel has been a great inspiration & friend & has welcomed me with open arms into her world!! Since then I have had the opportunity to be involved with many different aspects of Mod, as well as giving modelling a go myself!! Like many young impressionable girls, I always wondered what it would be like to model but since I far resembled the ‘typical’ model image, I never dreamt of going for it!! But, here I am on the wrong side of 30, building up a portfolio to represent what ‘real’ women are!! This leads me to the events of today, where I found myself posing in minus degree temperatures in the middle of Piccadilly Circus with Angel Sinclair &  James Leon, feeling very privileged to be wearing designer Danielle Liane’s beautiful dresses!!

I had heaps of fun & managed to block out the hundreds of onlookers staring at me with puzzled faces probably wondering who I was & why I was stood in sub-zero temperatures wearing next to nothing!! All in the name of fashion I say!! I’m looking forward to seeing the final results!!

For those of you that aren’t aware..

Angel Sinclair, the founder of Models of Diversity and Sinclair Model Management, is a former model herself; she started the campaign after appearing on Gok’s Miss Naked Beauty in 2008. Angel was struck by the great variety of beautiful women participating in the event and how that contrasted with the narrow range we see in the fashion industry. That’s when she decided, with Sally Williams, her co-founder, to promote the use of models that reflects diversity in society, in terms of race, shape, age and ability.

As a small child, Danielle enjoyed sewing and arts & crafts, with her Mum there by her side to nurture her talents, buying her jewellery & knitting kits.

At 18 Danielle joined Claremont School Of Tailoring where she learned to sew and design clothes, bags & accessories for the home. During that time Danielle made dresses for friends, family & the odd music artist. In 2008 she started a beading course where she learned how make beaded jewellery with different techniques.

“I loved the course so much I joined the second level the following year. I sold my jewellery in car boot sales and Portobella Market during the summer months, hosting jewellery parties around the Christmas season”.
Danielle was introduced to Angel in 2011 where she took part in a charity fashion show called “Styled & Frocked”, showcasing her jewellery which has appeared in magazines such as Just as Beautiful, You’ve Got Swagga & Flava.

The Curves in Couture show was Danielle’s first high profile show, where her designs received coverage  in Vogue, The Daily Mail & other magazines including online.

“My main aim is to become a brand to designer to give pleasure to those who wear Danielle Liane & maybe to just make a slight difference in the world”.

So, without further ado, I look forward to sharing the latest with you again next week!!

If you have any questions or issues you would like us to touch upon, or even if you’d like to share a story or opinion regarding our campaign, please feel free to email me at natalie@modelsofdiversity.org

A thought to bear in mind..

“If you don’t chase your dreams, you’ll never catch them”

Take care until next time..

Mz’Gee xx

We’re looking for professional plus-size models. Are you 5’9″ or taller, UK dress size 14-18, look fit, healthy and in proportion?

Castings will occur in London & Leeds. The models MUST bring their portfolios AND a Z-Card/Comp Card/Model Card to leave with us. And they must bring a pair of HIGH heels (no wedgies, just pumps or stliettos), wear simple form fitting clothes, and only do very light hair & MU.

We’re accepting applications for the casting call from professional plus-size models who live in the UK.

Please do not apply unless you fit all of the following criteria: 5’9″ and up, UK dress size 14 – 18. You should look fit, healthy, and in proportion. You MUST have professional modelling experience.

Send 5 clear quality, professional images (must include full body shot and face shot) to
info@modelsofdiversity.org putting “plus show casting” in the subject line.

Say NO to size ZERO and become a HERO!

I don’t care what my old aunt says about buying “sensible” and “comfortable” shoes, instead of the glossy sheened stilettos that catch my eye. No matter what the weather, the occasion or the mood, I just love that feeling of stepping out and hearing that clip clip clip as I strut down the pavement! I am a firm believer that heels do not only elongate my pins, they improve confidence, boost emotion and extend me those few precious inches! You know, if you think about it… shoes are practically an extension of oneself….and I’m not the only one who believes this! 

Dominka Budzynska

 Stunning, semi-professional model Dominka Budzyska, tells Angel Sinclair, how she instantly feels a million times better in her brightly coloured high heels, despite facing a million other obstacles in her life. http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles-dominika.html Polish beauty Dominka, who is in her late teens, has been a wheelchair user since the age of ten, but she’s not letting anything hold her back; “I look for the possibilities within the limits and not the other way around.” You go girl! (See, I told you heel-power worked!) But its not all glitz and glamour for our team. MoD have been practically boot camping it with the workload this month; Anita was a guest on the Vanessa show, Anita, Angel, Heaven and Sophia were featured on BEN TV, Shirley was featured in Chat Magazine, Curvacious Ambassador Kate was featured in Evans’ online magazine Fashion Fix http://blog.evans.co.uk/2011/06/20/exclusive-interview-with-plus-size-model-kate-blackett/ 

Check Kate Out in Evans Magazine!

 We’ve been published in Tropics, Diva, More and The Sun this past month, Beautiful Magazine will be publishing our articles and pictures from last month and I was interviewed by Fashions Finest Magazine. http://www.fashionsfinest.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=1431%3Athe-face-of-change&Itemid=86. PHEW! But never fear Sabina is here! Sabina will be sorting the admin for MoD. I’m sure I’m not alone when I say; “Thank you sooooooooooooooo much!”  

And in keeping with our boot camp work ethic, it seemed only right for our very own Model of Diversity, Suzanne Fatta, to interview two-time Golden Gloves boxing champion Ngoli Onyeka Okafor. Ngoli is a Nigerian-American (EXTREMELY RIPPED AND GOODLOOKING) male model and actor! Check Ngoli out (and if you really want to, you can also read his interview) via the following link! http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles-NGO.html 

Ngoli talks to MoD Suzanne Fatta!

 We also have a new Ambassador for Models of Colour (YAY!) focusing especially on the Asian Model. A warm welcome is given to Ramilla Sisodia! Ramilla’s articles are filled with substance. As an author and a model, Ramilla is able to write from experience, which really makes for a weighty read. I like it! The rise of the Asian supermodel has been intriguing me over the past few months, so I’m looking forward to reading more from this lady. Check out Ramilla’s articles at http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles-RamillaSisodia2.html and http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles-RamillaSisodia.html

The very sexy Ramilla, by Photographer Bob

Now…you will have heard me talk of the Model of Colour contest, in my last blog. Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten to tell you! We are just waiting for the last few details to be A-Okayed and then all shall be revealed! I give you my word!

With all the hype and positive experiences, it’s easy to forget the reasons why we do so much campaigning for diversity among models. Briggite Martin was a heart-clenching reminder of why Models of Diversity, do what we do. Briggite was a happy kid. When she blossomed into her teenage self, she was active and ate the normal amount of junk food any teen grazes on. She was one of those people who could maintain a sporty body, without doing any sport (so the types that most of us hate basically). But at 15, all of this changed. Briggite felt a misfit in school and after watching American TV shows like 90210 and Baywatch, where the “ideal body” is a flawless focus, she truly started to despise the sight of her own body. 

Underweight Brigitte battles Anorexia for 4 years

 “It was then that I started, barely eating and I worked out hard as well.”

Briggite went from weighing 57kg to 47 kg in a short space of time.

“I was completely out of energy and felt like I was going to fade away at any time… I was so desperate I signed myself into a mental institution.”

After four years of hell, Briggite managed to sort herself out, but like a lot of sufferers, the ability to get rid of this kind of disorder completely, is impossible.

“I believe that when you have suffered with an eating disorder, you will never really get rid of it completely, there will always be things left, but the answer is to try to live with it and accept yourself and all that has happened to you. This will make you stronger!”

Briggite now works as a model and encourages other ladies to never give up on their modelling aspirations. To have suffered an eating disorder, and be comfortable enough to model, is incredible.

“I will never stop fighting and promoting the fact, that no matter what size you are, you can model!! The camera said something very different than any modelling agencies or agents can ever say, it showed that it really did love me. My biggest wish is to see NORMAL models, every day girls model.” 

Chantelle says "NO to size zero" in casting advertisment!

 Briggite is one of many people who struggle with eating disorders, body dismorphia or body-related self-esteem issues. Lynne Featherstone, who is the MP Equalities Minister, has asked us to partner with her, on her current campaign, which raises awareness about body confidence. I think the message that Lynne is spreading is AMAZING. It’s about time, someone on a political platform voiced this ever-growing concern. Please show your support for our campaign; Read Lynne’s article, make a comment and click on this link now! http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/EqualitiesMinisterLynneFeatherstone.html   “Say no to size zero and be a hero”.

Teen Ambassador Sophia, searches for Assistant!

 Too right! It’s what the public want! Our survey’s say so! Teen Ambassador Sophia, has been busy surveying the attitudes, of other teens, regarding the use of black and Asian models in the industry. You can find her own blog with her results here: http://sophiasargeant.blogspot.com/ Sophia is still on the look out for a co-teen ambassador, so if you think you’ve got what it takes, why not give drop us a line? 

 Now, back to the Glitz and Glamour! Angel Sinclair has recently told me about her day at the races with Miss Kate Blackett, plus-size model for MoD. “Clive Sutton was very pleased to be asked to host a private viewing of the Hulme CanAm Spyder at his St John’s Wood Showroom. The car was flown over to the UK from New Zealand at the invitation of Lord March to have its worldwide launch at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. The car was named in honour of New Zealand’s only Formula One World Champion Denny Hulme OBE who raced in the Brabham and McLaren teams. Later he was to race in the Canadian-American Challenge Cup for Group 7 sports cars where he was a double champion. Created for both road and track day use, the Hulme CanAm Spyder is an ultra high performance, mid engine roadster.  A car of dramatic design and thrilling performance. As the car was unloaded by the side of the Lords Roundabout this car had passing drivers heads spinning to get a better view as it was moved onto the Clive Sutton Premier Marques forecourt. The bright orange colour combined with the dramatic shaped front and F1 racing lines was attracting as much interest as when it was first revealed as a concept car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2006. The Hulme is due to be produced with a limited edition of just 20 cars.” 

Plus Show Casting Poster featuring the gorgous Kate Blackett

 But Kate has done more than just pose (fabulously I might add) in enviable motors. She has been working her socks off, with co-ambassador Anita Bellamy, to promote the much anticipated Plus Size Fashion Shows! The media-frenzied shows will take place in Chelmsford and Watford shopping centres at the end of August and beginning of September. Check out this sizzling poster of Kate, as she spreads the word!  

And just when you think you’ve had all the excitement you can handle…You remember how I announced that Co-Founder of MoD, Angel Sinclair, recently became the Vice President of the Advance Centre? Well! Models of Diversity are organising a Make Over Day to raise money for the Scotson Technique. The event will take place on the 14^th July (PUT IT IN YOUR DIARIES NOW) I can just tell it’s going to be a positive and sparkly occasion for everyone involved!

“It’s very important that people recognise the hard work that carers put in – they are the forgotten heroes. So this is a way of us giving something back to the parents, to make them feel good about themselves.”

Co-Founder of MoD, Angel Sinclair with Founder of the Advance Centre, Linda Scotson.

The Advance Centre work with the parents not just the children, so that they can  develop skills to assist their children more effectivly. For more info. Check out http://www.pr-inside.com/models-of-diversity-founder-angel-sinclair-r2673095.htm

And remember, you can always hear us tweeting about something. So follow us, using this link  twitter.com/ModsOfDiversity   and remember to look out for Angel, in the soon-to-be-here article, which will be published in The Voice!

Until next time! Thanks guys!  

Why not get in touch?xx

Rebecca Burge

Face of Diversity 2011, Models of Diversity.

becky@modelsofdiversity.org 

www.modelsofdiversity.org

www.sinclairmanagement.co.uk

www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=129403085499

twitter.com/ModsOfDiversity

www.youtube.com/Modelsofdiversity

MoD Office +44 (0)20 8946 7084 

Don’t Be Slow – Be In The Know!
Hello to every beautiful person out there! I’m Becky and I will be scouring the High Street, befriending the A-List and spying on the “up and coming” to make sure you are kept up to date with the latest fashion developments, the freshest MoD topics and the hottest events!

I meet TV presenter Marc, who supports MoD at Styled and Frocked!

The Fun Never Ends…
What a month it has been for MoD! We have had even more publications, fashion shows, castings and a swell of more male hot bod’s potentially joining the team (you might as well scroll down the page to “Saturday 28th May” and read about them now, because I know you’re not going to absorb anything else I’ve written, until you do) not to mention the endless increase in support from celebrities and fashion industry insiders; Supermodel Amazon Eve and Designer Bozena Carter to name a few!

MoD models post-show pose!

I actually had the pleasure of seeing Bo briefly at a fashion show on Sunday 29th. If you’re anything like me and get bored with the same old thing, you’ll love this vibrant designer! I instantly fell in-love with her Victorian Punk line. Bo if you’re reading this? As soon as I’ve made my millions, I’m buying everything you’ve ever designed and burning my old wardrobe. I couldn’t take my eyes off Bo’s designs, they were a hybrid of elegance and attitude, a classic look but with edgy, rebellious undertones. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was surprised when the tranquil, modestly charming Miss Carter took her bow at the end.

Supermodel Amazon Eve talks to me at MoD event

Just a wee bit different from Amazon, who I had the pleasure of being swamped by, at the Models of Diversity and Tree of Hope, Styled and Frocked event on the 28th April. This feisty, sexy man-eater was such a laugh and she ain’t afraid to ask for what she wants! Amazon shouted “COME ON SHOW US YOUR MUSCLES” to a male model as he minced up the runway….he didn’t oblige. Still… I had a fabulous night with the bombshell!

Now Down To Business!
One small step for MoD, one giant leap for the fashion world, as we know it, YES! MoD has ascended to the next level by being officially endorsed by the British Fashion Council (BFC). (www.britishfashioncouncil.com) What a RESULT! Give me a high five! Plus Millennium Hotel Knightsbridge will start using nothing less than our very own MoD models in their publicity and MoD Italy have started producing photo-shoots.

MoD at Millennium Hotel Knightsbridge. Nice Work!

Meanwhile Ambassadors Jan Bryant and Shirley Edwards have been blasting the way for Mature Models, with a regular slot on the Liz Rhodes show, BBC Radio Cambridgeshire and publications in the Hunts Posts.  Tune in to the show on the 22nd of June and hear catchy discussion on Mature Women and MoD! (www.bbc.co.uk/radiocambridgeshire)

Mature MoD Model looking hot hot hot. I wonder what she's saying...

Proposals have been drawn up for the BFC and the Lad’s Mag’s (yes I did say Lad’s Mag’s) hitting the fascism HARD and making the case for the greater use of mature models. Nice work ladies!

And if the thought of Jan in a Lads Mag is making you sweat a little, you should have been there on Saturday 28th May; Private test shoot, intimate studio, surrounded by semi-naked male models!!!!! Sometimes I love where my research takes me. Of-course I remained professional at all times. I barely even noticed their tattoos, which swelled and spread across clenched biceps or even the smoothness of their skin as they brushed past me. I targeted Karl first…. Karl, Karl, Karl…Karl is 25 years old, has arms to die for, is tall, quite broad (but certainly not out of proportion), arms like rocks, has a gold tooth that only a few people make sexy, arms like a GREEK GOD, tattoos, dreadlocks, really, really, reeeaaalllllly NICE arms…and dark features, although having said that, he has a fairly light tan for a model of colour. This Sweet Stall seller come Cage Fighter is definitely everything you could want in a man…I mean model…so it’s no surprise that Angel has taken him on! And just like his body, this man has BIG THINGS PLANNED for his modelling career. Karl told me he aims to be featured in a big brand store; “It’s time for some diversity. Levi’s and H&M are starting to use models of colour, so who knows?…I think I am quite unique lookin’ too. Like, not many models have a gold tooth you know? So I think that’s good.” Yes it is Karl. Yes it is.

Karl and Flame at MoD Test Shoot, 28th May

At this point in the interview, Karl had to change his outfit…next to me (yes!!!!)…Photographer Michael Cheetham told me that he could wait for Karl until I had finished, but I wouldn’t dream of holding up the test shoot! No! I decided it would be best for everyone, if we suspended the molesting – sorry, questioning – until after Karl had stripped down and continued posing for the camera. Never worry about that Michael, I’m a very, very, very patient person! Yes I did meet more hunks and YES I will tell you more, BUT I’m afraid if I give you all the goss now, you’ll never make it to the end of the blog…so keep reading and you’ll find out the rest in due course!

Models of Colour looking fabulous! Pic by Leonie

So! It turns out that these male beauties aren’t the only ones creating a storm; Model Nicola raised a highly relevant discussion on being a model of colour (http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles-expMoC.html) and MoD have been busy with their own Colouring the Industry initiative; The Model of Colour contest. This high profile affair will have the singer / actress Sinitta as one of the judges and A LOT of media interest – You do NOT want to miss this event! Details are coming soon.

I am also MEGA proud to announce MoD’s endorsement with Beautiful Magazine (www.beautifulmagazine.co.uk) who proudly stood alongside us during one-of-our-many, street surveys in Covent Garden on the 20th May. The survey and petition gave the public a chance to voice their opinions about the type of models they want to see in the media.

Covent Garden Street Survey

Plus-Size Ambassador’s Kate Blackett and Anita Bellamy spoke of the event as a HUGE success and the 500 signatures collected, proved to be pinnacle in the BFC meeting: “The semi-annual meeting with the BFC was extremely positive, big things are on the horizon, especially for Plus-Lines.” Suzanne Fatta, MoD’s PA to Angel Sinclair. UK Plus-Size magazines have since expressed their interest in MoD and we are now producing a selection of top-notch images, ready for publication. Kate will also be taking part in a sponsored run, later in the year (details to be confirmed) to raise money for charity and promote Models of Diversity.

Speaking of “top-notch image”, I met Michael, MoD’s treasured hair stylist, for the first time, and he is just adorable! I want to keep him. (He probably won’t appreciate me saying that, but it’s true.) Michael has magic fingers when it comes to dressing hair on people of colour, and talent like his is hard to come by. He always wanted to style hair for photo-shoots and loves working with all our models. Michael told me “I’ve been with MoD for five years and I don’t have any plans to rush off…I wanna stay at MoD, everyone’s just so friendly.” Awwww…What a sweety.

MoD strut their stuff at Oxford Fashion Week 2011

And now for something ULTRA EXCITING! (No it’s not the men.) As you may know, breaking boundaries is not an easy thing to do, but on the 19th March 2011, the hard work paid off; MoD performed at Oxford Fashion Week! (www.modelsofdiversity.org/event_press.html) (www.modelsofdiversity.org/event_oxford.html) (oxfordfashionweek.tumblr.com/post/3271030320/ofw-embraces-diversity) Model’s Of Diversity’s Fashion Show Extravaganza was in association with the MacMillan Clothes Extravaganza and ran alongside The Style Show – OXFORD FASHION WEEKS LARGEST EVENT. MoD was the first EVER non-designer promoter and can you guess? The powers that be, have invited us back for OFW 2012. Now that’s a positive break through! If you weren’t there…well you should have been.

OKAY FINE! Back to informing you about the new male recruits and their…talent!;-)

Nick acts like a pro at his first Test Shoot

Nick will be one of MoD’s mature models and I am telling you, this stunner, really is PROOF that “old” IS GOLD! Nick has a slight surfer look about him, with messy blonde hair and a golden tan. With bodywork this polished, ladies, you’re gonna want to ride this wave over and over again! In-keeping with the beach theme, I also met the GORGEOUS Flame, who was quite at home wondering around in her bikini. As a curvaceous, 5ft something, model of colour, Flame has overcome her own experiences of prejudice in the modelling industry. It’s amazing to hear, that even someone as stunning as Flame, has been told she doesn’t “have the right look” by certain agencies and employers…well, all I have to say to these people is; “YOU’VE MISSED OUT BIG TIME! THE LOSS IS YOURS.”
Moving on… if surfing ain’t your scene and you prefer a more clean cut look, then you’ll love Jonathan Lancaster. 

The gorgeous Jonathan at MoD test shoot, 28th May

 First impressions were; he is HOTTTTT and it’s not surprising since he trained as a Personal Fitness Instructor (hehehe nice!) Jonathan was open, approachable and cool. His hair was in a definite style and he had great fashion sense. Although he was nervous about his first test shoot, the 26 year old looked gooooood in front of the camera! Jonathan has appeared in a few BBC documentaries including So What If My Baby’s Born Like Me and Love Me – Love My Face, and is one of the most positive people I’ve met. “I have a lime green car, I wear Spice Girls T-Shirts. I like standing out and my face does that.” J.L. I’ll be interviewing Jonathan about his campaign and lots more and I can’t wait; “The world’s going to see me and they’re going to love me.” J.L. I think everyone at Saturday’s test shoot already does babe!

And last but not least, I give you the very pretty Teen Ambassador Sophia Sargent. This lady has been relentlessly surveying the young vibrant voices of The Ockendon Academy and 17-20 year olds around Lakeside. 

One of many MoD articles relating to teenage views

 We believe YOU the PUBLIC should have your say, after all, who else puts the money in the designers pockets? Check out more of Sophia’s findings at http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/articles.html.
There are hopes of an innovative, creative, cool fashion show aimed at all aspects of teen models; Goth’s, Chav’s, Urban, Fashionista’s…. you name it, we’ll show it! I think I’ve actually been through all of the above fashion stages, at some point during my adolescent life, so if nothing else, it’s a trip down memory lane! But with all this extra work we’re going to need another pair of hands, so MoD is on the look out for a Co-Teen Ambassador. Casting details tbc.

And To Conclude…
I joined this fabulous team on the 28th April 2011 at the Styled and Frocked Fashion Event, held at the prestigious JuJu Nightclub.

MoD join forces with Tree of Hope Childrens Charity

MoD joined forces with the Tree of Hope Children’s Charity and the celebrity filled evening was a huge success. I can’t wait to get stuck in with MoD; with such a positive campaign, it’s hard not to feel the buzz! I want to see Models of Diversity in shop windows, in TV advertising, in Catalogues- more than just being the token plus size or model of colour used for political correctness. There’s nothing correct about it!!! I’m looking for Sponsors, radio and TV airtime and I’ll be attending a fashion event on the 17th June so lots happening at the moment. Change is coming, and I am proud to join MoD, in being a frontline driver for that change.

Co-Founder of Models Of Diversity, Angel Sinclair, is now Patron of the Advanced Centre. She is organising a make-over day for mothers and children and a fashion show for October, to raise money for the Cerebral Palsy charity. Angel will also be at the American Intercontinental University Graduation Fashion Show on the 31st May and at London Jewellery Week for the Treasure launch (VIP list of-course!) on the 9th June. I KNOW Angel will come back having created even more opportunities for MoD – so watch this space!

Thanks for reading and feel free to contact me on the details below! x

Rebecca Burge Face of Diversity 2011

Have something to say? Why not post a reply?

becky@modelsofdiversity.org

www.modelsofdiversity.org
www.sinclairmanagement.co.uk
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