Fashion show gets nod for RSA Models Awards

Exposé - The Fashion Show has been nominated in the “best fashion show” category of the RSA Models Awards, which recognises excellence across the modelling landscape in South Africa.

The show is created by Gino Dean Thaysen, from Lentegeur, and his crew, who will know who the winner is by Friday December 9, just days before they hold their show at Spine Road High School, on Friday and Saturday December 16 and 17.

“I have no words to describe how proud I am of the team for this achievement. I’m overjoyed. I still don’t believe that we were nominated amongst the biggest fashion shows in South Africa. Just making the nomination is more than I could have ever asked or hoped for,” said Mr Thaysen.

“Being from a crime-infested community with a high rate of poverty, I decided to change the narrative.”

Now in its second year, Exposé created opportunities for models and other aspiring talents in the entertainment industry, he said.

“We pride ourselves in community upliftment. We held auditions in May where we selected a cast based on their aspirations and mission in life. Many of our cast members are positive role models in their community. The cast is found all over Worcester, Saldanah, Hanover Park, Mitchell’s Plain and more. We have children from as young as 3 in the production.

“This year, we’re pulling off a two-day, over-the-top fashion show with over 150 cast members. The team went above and beyond to bring an extraordinary and magical experience.

“Our fashion show is based on Beyoncé’s world-renowned movie, Homecoming, and we are pulling out all the stops to bring you a thrilling, magical and mind-blowing experience. Our own rendition of Homecoming will feature 13 designers, 75 models with live performances from Laverne HippKhoi, Madison Scar, Chelsea Goliath, Tiyana Lee Stemmet, Percussion Kings and The Williams twins,” he said.

“We want to show people that no matter how big the dream, if we support each other and invest in each other, nothing is impossible.”

According to Mr Thaysen, the show’s media team is Curry in a Hurry, a company run by Fairmount High School teacher Michael Curry, who is teaching film and photography to young people from Parkwood and surrounds.

Some of the designers include Riyana Kherekar, owner of the Gudgal label, plus-size fashion designer Tarryn Truter and Geraldine Webber of Gerrieś Designs.

Choreography is by Jolene Daniels, a Mitchell’s Plain teacher who runs a dance academy, and Bonteheuwel singer Tiyana-Lee Stemmet is the show’s musical director.

Mikhail Manasse, model and runway coach, said he felt honoured to be part of the show and work with talented individuals.

Technical crew member Inshaaf Sodigal, 15, said: “I’ve learnt new things and met new people. I gained lots of experience during the show. Things I thought I could never do, I can do it all because of this show.”

Ms Webber said she was thrilled to be part of the show for a second time.

“People should attend to support local artists and local designers. The best part about the show is to see designers from different communities and areas coming together showcasing their own unique styles.”

Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm. Tickets are R150 and can be bought at the door or pre-booked with Alrene Thaysen at 069 297 1524 or 082 453 5550.