KidFash Magazine Modeling Issue

ISSUE 37/MODELING 2025

HOW TO START MODELING & AGENCY SECRETS

SPROUT KIDS AGENCY

DANI SAX THE POWER OF DIGITALS

MODELING SAFELY JOURNEY KAY SHARES HER SCARY EXPERIENCE AND LIFE-SAVING LESSONS

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a r at p o e Kl s a g Va r

HER INSPIRING MODELING JOURNEY

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Editor’s Letter What Is Fashion To Me? (@sloanegehrki) Digitals with danisaxphotos GOLD Photographer: @avacantrellphotography Top 10 Models Cover Story: Kleopatra Vargas GOLD Photographer: @tbom_photo Sprout Kids Agency GOLD Photographer: @yhanson_photography Modeling Safety: @journeykayofficial GOLD Photographer: @katesmith.photography

Cover Model: Kleopatra Vargas (@kleopatra_vargas_) Photographer: (@akorsamistudios) Location: South Africa Back Cover Model: Honesty (@honesty_bissau) Photographer: Marliese Marie (@marliese.marie) Dress: Little Creative Factory (@littlecreativefactory) Location: Orlando, FL Table of Contents Picture Model: Dominic(@dominicdigravio) Photographer: True Form Imagery (@trueformimagery) Location: Rochester, NY Editor: Damon Ross DDS Contributing Kid Editors: Maddie Delbridge & Annie Delbridge Graphic Designer: Mandy Hernandez Consulting Editors: Angie Lozano, Erika Carey

Editor’s

Letter

When I was a kid, my parents wanted me to model, but I didn’t want to. It wasn’t until college that I finally decided to give it a try. I signed with an agent and felt excited, but because I didn’t have the money for photos or the basic tools the industry requires, nothing ever happened. I never booked any jobs, and that dream faded before it even had a chance.

That experience stayed with me. It made me think about how many talented kids miss out simply because they don’t have the guidance or resources. That’s exactly why I created KidFash Magazine and why this Modeling Issue means so much to me.

Inside, you’ll find stories and information that can truly help kids get started the right way. Our cover features Kleopatra Vargas, whose journey has taken her from her very first newborn photoshoot to modeling around the world, even in Africa. We also interviewed Sprouts Kids Agency, who shares an agent’s perspective on what kids can do today to begin their modeling careers.

We also address one of the most important topics in the industry: safety. In a powerful interview, Journey Kay shares her story about almost being kidnapped, reminding families what to look out for and how to stay protected.

You’ll also find a heartfelt piece by Sloane titled “What Fashion Means to Me,” giving readers a young model’s personal perspective on style and confidence. We proudly showcase our Top 10 Models from the Model Showcase, celebrating their hard work and talent. And throughout the issue, you’ll see stunning photos captured by our Gold Photographers, whose creativity and skill bring each story to life.

This issue was created to open doors, build confidence, and offer real guidance, especially for families who may not have the money or connections to get started. I hope it inspires you and gives you everything I wish I had when I first tried to model.

Our featured photographer, Danielle Sax, breaks down the importance of digitals and teaches readers how to Damon Ross, DDS take them correctly, an essential step for every model. Founder of KidFash Magazine

WHAT FASHION MEANS TO ME? Fashion lets me express who I am without ever saying a word, and I love how the right style can boost my confidence and completely shift my mood. To me, fashion is a creative, ever-changing art form that I get to wear, a way to explore ideas and show different sides of myself. I enjoy putting outfits together, experimenting with new looks, and discovering fresh ways to stand out. Every piece I choose helps tell my story—and makes me feel uniquely me.

Models: Sloane (@sloanegehrki) Photographer: Hit Media (@_hitmedia_

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The Magic of Dig s

Why Mod s N d Them w h

D i S

(@danisaxphotos)

Model: Skylar (@skylarhudson_model)

If you’ve ever dreamed about being a model, you might think the first thing you need is a fancy photoshoot with cool outfits and lots of makeup. But actually, the very first thing agencies want to see is something much simpler. They want to see digitals, plain, natural photos that show exactly what you look like every day.

Digitals are special because they are honest. They don’t have filters, bright studio lights, or any retouching. They help agencies see the real you.

Agencies use these simple pictures to decide if a model might be right for a job, and sometimes digitals can even help a model get signed before they have a full portfolio. Some models get discovered just from strong digitals!

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Good digitals aren’t hard to create, but they do have some important rules.

Agencies like digitals because they show what a model looks like right now. A professional photoshoot can make someone look very different from how they look in real life. But digitals are clean and simple, so agencies can imagine how a model might look in lots of different jobs. It’s like giving them a blank canvas to see your potential.

Good digitals aren’t hard to create, but they do have some important rules. They should be taken in front of a plain wall with soft, even lighting. Many models stand near a window so the light hits their face nicely.

The outfit should be simple (like a plain black or white top and fitted pants). Makeup should be very light or not used at all. And the pictures should show different angles, such as full body, close-up, and side profiles. Keeping everything simple helps agencies focus on you, not the background or your clothes.

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Of course, some mistakes can make digitals less helpful. Busy or messy rooms, dark or mixed lighting, or posing like you’re doing a full fashion shoot can distract from your natural look. Even holding the camera at the wrong angle can make a big difference.

Straight-on shots usually work best because they show you clearly

When digitals are taken, it’s important for the model to feel relaxed and confident. A good photographer will keep things positive and friendly so the model doesn’t feel nervous.

Digitals aren’t about doing tons of poses — they’re about being natural. The more comfortable the model feels, the better the digitals turn out.

The great thing is that you don’t need fancy equipment to take digitals at home. A phone camera works perfectly fine. Just make sure the lens is clean, avoid zooming too much, and step closer instead. Good lighting and a simple wall are often enough to create digitals that look professional.

Modeling should always be fun, creative, and full of excitement, and digitals are the first step on that amazing journey.

When it’s time to send digitals to an agency, it’s important to follow their directions closely. Most agencies explain exactly what they want on their website. Many ask for a close-up, a ¾ body shot, and a full body photo. Following these steps shows that you’re serious and that you pay attention to details.

Digitals should be updated every three to six months, or whenever your look changes (like if you cut your hair). Agencies want the most current version of you so they know exactly what you look like today.

Digitals are used for much more than just agency submissions. They also go on a model’s comp card and are sent directly to clients for castings and jobs.

This is why digitals end up being one of the most important tools a model will ever have.

And yes — digitals really can change a model’s life.

Many models have gotten big opportunities because of them. Almost every model you see in a commercial, magazine, or billboard has strong digitals they rely on.

In the end, digitals show agencies and clients who you truly are. They help open doors, create opportunities, and build confidence. Modeling isn’t always easy, and there will be times when things don’t work out right away. But staying true to yourself, continuing to show up, and keeping your digitals updated can take you far.

Modeling should always be fun, creative, and full of excitement, and digitals are the first step on that amazing journey.

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ADRIANA (@ad rian a.ma ec y )

At just 13 years old, Adriana Couverteir is emerging as one of the most captivating young talents in the modeling industry.

Proudly carrying her African American and Puerto Rican heritage, the Katy, Texas native has already built an impressive résumé spanning runway, print, and commercial work.

With a natural elegance and a fierce presence beyond her years, Adriana has graced the runways of New York Fashion Week, Dallas Fashion Week, and Austin Fashion Week—each time earning praise for her confidence, precision, and remarkably advanced runway walk. Her ability to command the stage with poise and fluidity sets her apart as a true standout among her peers.

Driven, disciplined, and endlessly passionate, Adriana is steadily carving her path toward a future in high fashion. With big dreams and undeniable talent, she is quickly becoming a young model to watch as she continues her journey toward the world’s most iconic runways.

Photographer: @olesjamueller_verified Representing Team: Platinum Member

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ABBIE

(@a big ailro se c opc ut t )

Hailing from South Carolina, Abbie has been gracing the runway for four years, bringing elegance and poise to every step.

Represented by Millie Lewis Charleston and NYMMG, she’s no stranger to the spotlight, having been selected by fashion designers like Diana Marach, Andres Aquino and Krissy King to represent their brands. Abbie has also been published in fashion magazines dozens of times, and has recently been named one of the “Models to Watch.”

Off the runway, Abbie‘s a powerhouse – an avid tennis player, a dedicated member of Youth in Government and the National Honor Society, and Vice President of her local chapter of Teens for Healthy Youth, championing, mental health awareness, and anti-drug initiatives.

Photographer: David Andrews Photography Representing Team: @charjeancoutureusa

KATHERINE (@kath erin e_ m t n )

Katherine Mountain is multi-talented individual with a passion for dancing, tumbling, and musical theater. She has a love for surfing and modeling, showcasing her diverse interests. As a published author, she wrote "Turtle Tales: A Journey of Friendship," which reflects her creative spirit and belief in community support.

Committed to making a difference, Katherine actively organizes beach clean-up events and charity initiatives to benefit Meals on Wheels, demonstrating her dedication to both her community and the environment.

Photographer: @official_brushedbykellyl Representing Team: @umodelacademy

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SCARLETT (@sca rlett_ by _nam e_and_m ane )

A talented young model, dancer, and actress whose passion for the arts shines through in everything she does. With her striking red hair, natural confidence, and captivating presence, she has already been featured in Top Model Australia and Asian Fashion Runway, representing both Australian and international brands. Her professional training with JRA helped build her strong foundation in runway, commercial, and photographic modelling, and she continues to expand her experience in editorial fashion.

Beyond modelling, Scarlett is a passionate dancer, trained across all genres. Dance has given her discipline, poise, and the ability to bring expression and movement into every project.

Scarlett is also an actress, having starred in national television productions, which has further developed her versatility and confidence in performing under direction.

Her experience on screen has given her a unique edge in modelling, allowing her to adapt seamlessly With her professionalism, creativity, and enthusiasm, Scarlett is an exciting young talent making her mark in the worlds of fashion, dance, and television. Her mantra, “Every step is a story,” shows how she turns every pose, dance, and smile into a magical moment worth remembering.

Photographer: Kylie Southwood (@kyliesouthwoodphotographykids) Representing Team: @missyxofficial

TIA

(@tia _o latu nji )

Tia Ola is a Dallas-based teen actress and international model who has walked runways from New York to London and appeared in editorials shot at destinations such as Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs and the Duomo di Milano in Italy.

She has trained with top industry professionals, earned awards and certificates, and is a multi-published talent known for her poise and creativity.

Her acting credits include shorts such as Timeless and A Little Lift, the latter earning her a nomination at the 46th Young Artist Academy Awards. She recently booked her first supporting role in the upcoming comedy web series Parental Control, set to premiere in late 2025.

Beyond fashion and film, Tia is a KIDS FIRST! film critic and a DECA district champion in Marketing Communications, achievements that highlight her passion for storytelling and communication. Whether modeling, acting, or reviewing films, Tia brings energy, discipline, and authenticity to every project.

Photographer: @heatherharvey_photography Representing Team:Platinum Member

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EMILY (@emily20 14 _m odel )

Emily Purbaugh is an 11-year-old Chinese-American model from Bellevue, Washington, bringing bright energy and confidence to every shoot and runway.

She’s modeled for Fila Kids, Skechers Kids, Under Armour, and Asics, and has walked in Fashion Weeks across the U.S. and Asia.

In 2025, Emily took home 1st Place (Global Individual Champion) at the It’s Superstar International Model Competition. When she’s not modeling, you’ll find her skiing, singing, dancing to K-pop, or drawing her next creative idea. A proud student in the Bellevue School District, Emily loves exploring new styles and inspiring other young dreamers to shine their own way.

Photographer: @littlestarphotography Representing Team:@chrisanthicouture_

NATALIE (@n ata lie_ mor gan_s how )

Natalie Morgan is a rising star on the Hollywood scene!

At just nine years old, this Los Angeles native has already built an impressive resume. As a model, Natalie has been featured in campaigns for top brands including Disney, Mattel, Zara, and American Girl.

Her talents don’t stop there. Natalie is also an actress, appearing in commercials for DreamWorks, Spin Master, Disney and more. She even made a guest appearance on an NBC sitcom, proving her versatility on screen.

With a passion for modeling, acting, singing, and dancing, Natalie is making waves in Los Angeles and beyond. Keep your eye on her. This little star is destined to be the next big thing!

Photographer: Robin Lorraine Photography Representing Team: @chrisanthicouture_

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CIARA

(@ciara ga rcia diaz _m odel )

Ciara is a 12 year old girl from London. She loves being in front of the camera and being around her friends. She likes dancing and currently focuses on Latin dance.

Photographer: @danigeddes Representing Team: Elite Member

ALEENA (@a lee na matta )

8 year old model from Houston. She is half Lebanese and half Algerian, and can speak 3 languages. Aleena loves fashion, modeling and acting. She believes that kindness, big dreams, and hard work are the keys to success.

Photographer: Olesja Mueller (@olesjamueller_verified) Representing Team: @missyxofficial

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ANABELLA (@a na be lla_ m c c r ar y )

At just 13, Anabella McCrary—founder of Sweet Bella Grace—is already making waves in fashion and philanthropy. What started as healing through candle-making during a serious medical battle has grown into a brand built on kindness, unity, and raising awareness to end domestic violence.

She helped host a fundraiser with Tim Tebow that raised $250K for the Haven Shelter, launched her first couture swimwear line at Miami Fashion Week, launched her new Lip Gloss “The Copper and Chloe Collection this year, and will walk the red carpet in LA with Carmen Electra November 20, 2025 to debut Sweet Bella Grace’s “Pretty in Pink” eyeshadow palette. She was also chosen to shoot a brand deal with Cover Girl Cosmetics in New York Fashion Week with SU. Now, Sweet Bella Grace is expanding into couture gowns, with Anabella set to be the Premier Designer for New York Fashion Week on Feb 14, 2026.

This young entrepreneur is proving you’re never too young to inspire, create, and make a difference.

Photographer: @anabella_mccrary Representing Team:@cdrchristinadelre

LEXI

LUCIA

JOURNEY KAY

LOGAN

KLEOPATRA

JUDGES

PIPER

KID MUA Makeup Artist: Ayva (@makeupwithayva) Photographer: Brit (@brittanylealandphoto)

I’m just a young girl with big dreams and a makeup brush in hand. Makeup has always been more than just colors and products to me - it’s been my passion, my creative escape, and the path I see for my future. Every look I create brings me closer to where I want to be. I’m chasing the dream of becoming a makeup artist one blend, one brushstroke at time - and I’m loving every second of the journey.

KLEOPATRA VARGAS e Born to Sh

Photographer: Boss Sami (@akorsamistudios)

Kleopatra Vargas has been in front of a camera since she was just a baby. In fact, her modeling journey began only one week after she was born when she had her very first photoshoot. From that moment on, everyone could see she was special.

When she was 10 months old, Kleopatra entered her first pageant and won the title of Baby Miss Illinois 2016. She was such a happy baby and loved being on stage. Her mom and dad saw how much fun she had and kept supporting her. Her mom, who was once Ms. Illinois USA Universal 2016, helped guide her into modeling. Kleopatra says that she’s been modeling her whole life, it’s just part of who she is!

When she was only five years old, Kleopatra won another big title—Miss Toddler USA America Nation 2016. She remembers one of her favorite early memories: walking in her very first fashion show at the Chicago Kids Multicultural Fashion Show in 2017. As she walked down the runway, people started cheering for her. She says she couldn’t believe how many people were clapping and smiling. That’s when she knew she wanted to keep doing this forever.

KLEOPATRA VARGAS HAS BEEN IN FRONT OF A CAMERA SINCE SHE WAS JUST A BABY.

As Kleopatra grew older, her modeling took her to new places around the world. One of her biggest adventures was when she traveled to Africa to visit Nigeria, where her mom’s family is from. Before the trip, she had heard people say things about Africa that made it sound poor or sad, but when she got there, she saw how beautiful it truly was.

She met kind people, saw bright and colorful clothing, and tasted delicious food. She even got to design a few outfits while she was there! The trip helped her feel proud of her roots and made her want to create her own clothing brand one day.

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Out of all the places she’s modeled, New York is her favorite. She recently walked the runway at New York Fashion Week 2025, and she says it was the most amazing experience ever. The cameras were flashing everywhere, and she felt like a real star. “Over 200 cameras were on me,” she said with a big smile. “It was beautiful.”

Even though modeling looks fun and glamorous, Kleopatra says it’s not always easy. Sometimes the clothes she has to wear can be itchy or uncomfortable. And sometimes, other models can be very competitive. But she always remembers what her mom tells her—there’s enough success for everyone. Kleopatra believes in being kind, staying confident, and always being herself.

One of the moments that made her feel like she truly belonged in the modeling world was when she walked in Utah Fashion Week 2024. She was nervous at first, but when she heard people saying nice things about her walk and her attitude, she realized how much she had grown. That experience gave her even more confidence to keep going.

THAT EXPERIENCE GAVE HER EVEN MORE CONFIDENCE TO KEEP GOING.

“BELIEVE IN YOURSELF AND FIND PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN YOUR DREAMS TOO.” Balancing school and modeling can be tough, but Kleopatra works hard to manage her time.

She still goes to school every day and has been on the honor roll for four years in a row. She’s also the Student Council President! With help from her team and family, she’s able to balance it all. Her family believes that education is very important, and she agrees.

Kleopatra says her biggest supporters are her mom and grandma. They’re always by her side, cheering her on, giving her advice, and praying for her. She also loves her fans who have supported her since she was a baby.

When asked what advice she would give to other kids who want to be models, Kleopatra says, “Take lots of pictures, practice your poses in front of a mirror, and never give up. Modeling is fun, but it’s also about helping sell a product. Believe in yourself and find people who believe in your dreams too.”

Kleopatra knows how important it is to work with photographers, agencies, and mentors who understand her goals. She’s careful about who she works with now because she wants a team that shares her vision and supports her dreams.

But Kleopatra isn’t stopping at modeling. She’s also a singer, actress, dancer, and DJ! She just released her very first song, “The Boss,” which can be heard on Spotify, YouTube, Pandora, and Apple Music. Her dream is to act in Hollywood movies, make more songs, and DJ at big festivals all around the world.

With her bright smile, big dreams, and unstoppable energy, Kleopatra Vargas is on her way to becoming one of the most successful kids in the universe. And the best part? She’s just getting started.

BUT KLEOPATRA ISN’T STOPPING AT MODELING. SHE’S ALSO A SINGER, ACTRESS, DANCER, AND DJ!

The Best of Me Studio @tbom_photo

Orange County, CA

Makenzie (@mack.enzieamador8)

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KidFashMagazine.com/ModelingIssue2025 39

Sprout Kids Agency Growing Confident Kids in the Modeling World

An Agency’s Perspective on How to Help Your Child Get Started When you talk to Shaina Miller, the founder of Sprout Kids Agency, Florida’s only exclusive children’s modeling agency, you immediately feel her passion.

Her love for kids, her belief in their potential, and her commitment to doing things the right way come through in every word. Sprout Kids Agency wasn’t built out of convenience, it was born out of love, purpose, and a desire to give children opportunities she knew they deserved.

Years ago, while going through a difficult divorce and trying to create stability for her own kids, she noticed something missing in Florida’s modeling market.

Agencies felt crowded, impersonal, and sometimes unorganized. She knew families were craving something better, something honest, structured, and supportive. So she decided to build the kind of agency she wished existed. That spark grew into Sprout: a place where every child is known, valued, and supported like family.

From day one, Sprout Kids Agency was designed to feel different. Instead of treating talent like a number in a system, every child who joins is met personally.

Every parent has direct access. And every family

knows their agent is just a text or phone call away.

“We’re not the scary agents parents are afraid to approach,” she says. “We’re partners in this journey.”

And that partnership begins the moment a family wants to submit.

What Agencies Really Look for Parents often think agencies want perfect pictures or professionally lit photoshoots, but Sprout’s approach is refreshingly simple. What matters most is personality. A child who lights up a room, giggles easily, listens well, or loves to chat will often book faster than the “prettiest” child in the room.

For submissions, Sprout Kids Agency asks only for clean, simple digitals: •White t-shirt and jeans •Plain white wall •A few upper-body photos •A few full-body photos •A short, cheerful introduction video KidFashMagazine.com/ModelingIssue2025 41

No makeup. No fancy editing. No props. What they want to see is the real child (bright, honest, and full of possibility).

Balancing School, Family, and Modeling Parents often worry their child will fall behind in school, but Sprout Kids Agency encourages families to treat modeling like any other extracurricular activity. Just like dance competitions or travel sports, modeling may require missing the occasional school day, and that’s okay when families communicate ahead of time.

Most submissions take only 10 minutes. Larger opportunities like movies or television can take more time, but those are rare and always worth the excitement.

The agency reminds parents that with communication and planning, modeling can be fun, flexible, and completely manageable.

Helping Kids Grow (and Parents Too) Children usually handle this industry beautifully.

They try something new, forget about it ten minutes later, and move on with their day. Surprisingly, it’s often the parents who need the most guidance. When kids start booking regularly, some parents get swept up in the excitement, and that’s where Sprout steps in.

They teach parents to stay grounded, humble, and honest. They emphasize that modeling should not take over a child’s life, nor should parents become overly competitive or obsessed. Children thrive when modeling is a happy, balanced part of their world (not the center of it).

Real Opportunities, Real Growth Sprout Kids Agency represents kids who work in: • Major motion pictures • National print campaigns • Commercials for Disney, Home Depot, Cruise Lines • Clothing brands like Ralph Lauren and Janie & Jack

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And while parents often ask about fashion shows, Shaina is honest: most kids’ fashion shows aren’t legitimate. They often require families to pay or perform for free, and that goes against Sprout’s values. Their priority is paid, reputable opportunities that truly benefit the child.

Some of Sprout Kids Agency’s proudest moments include twins booking a major film, a young girl making it to Broadway, and children landing campaigns with Zara and Ralph Lauren. But even with all the big wins, Shaina insists that every booking, big or small, is meaningful. “Calling a parent with good news never gets old,” she says. “That moment is everything.”

Preparing Kids for Big Auditions Whether the submission is for a blockbuster movie or a national commercial, Sprout Kids Agency is hands-on. They help families retake digitals, work with acting coaches when needed, and offer feedback on tapes until they’re polished and ready. They don’t believe in simply submitting children and hoping for the best, they believe in preparing them.

The Role of Parents (The Most Important Piece) The founder is honest: the parent can make or break a child’s modeling journey.

Agents love parents who: •Respond quickly •Turn in materials on time •Keep digitals updated •Communicate kindly •Stay humble •Follow agency guidelines A reliable parent often becomes the agent’s favorite to work with and that, in turn, helps the child succeed.

“Calling a parent with good news never gets old,”

Advice for New Families Entering the Industry For parents just getting started, Sprout offers three key pieces of wisdom:

1. Avoid the Parent Gossip.

Not everyone is rooting for your child. Take advice from agents, not strangers.

2. Be a Responsive Parent.

Your agent can only help your child if you respond, update, and participate fully.

3. Stay Humble.

Today your child may book a lot. Tomorrow they may not book at all. Keep perspective.

Working With Kids Outside Florida More than half of Sprout Kids Agency’s roster lives out of state (and they still book consistently). Families simply need to be willing to travel for booked jobs. Auditions are nearly all virtual now, so getting into the industry is easier than ever, no matter where you live.

Keeping Kids Safe and Confident Sprout Kids Agency prioritizes safety by working only with trusted clients and always requiring a parent on set. They also encourage families to keep audition information minimal to protect kids from disappointment. Children naturally bounce back from rejection. It’s parents who often need to step back and breathe.

They also encourage families to keep audition information minimal to protect kids from disappointment.

Sprout will only grow where we can truly grow children.”

Bullying rarely appears among the kids themselves.

Instead, it shows up among parents. So Sprout teaches families to stay grounded, avoid gossip, and focus on their own child’s journey.

Looking Toward the Future Sprout Kids Agency’s next chapter is filled with growth. They’re working on new programs to help kids transition into teen and young-adult opportunities. They plan to expand into other states, but only when they know they can bring the same excellence they’ve built in Florida.

“When I commit,” the founder says, “I give it a thousand percent. Sprout will only grow where we can truly grow children.”

And with that mission at its heart, building confident, humble, well-supported kids, Sprout Kids Agency continues to change the modeling industry one child, one family, and one beautiful moment at a time.

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Models: @krysiaksisters123 @layla_kolasa @kaycstar @naominelantine @torontokidsmodel

Yhanson

@yhanson_photography

Toronto, Canada at @gllamallama.beautybar

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FIGHT LIKE JOURNEY A MODEL’S STORY OF COURAGE AND SAFETY Photographer: Jason (@thatcaramelstudios)

From the moment Journey Kay stepped in front of a camera at just three years old, it was clear she had something special.

During a simple family photo session, the photographer called her mom afterward and said, “I have a problem, I can’t pick which pictures to edit because they’re all incredible.” That one comment set everything in motion. Her mom submitted her photos to an agency, and Journey was signed almost instantly.

Within weeks, she booked her first two jobs with Pottery Barn Kids and Hyatt Hotels. From there, her modeling career began to bloom.

Journey grew up loving the creative world. Her mom was a dance instructor, and Journey spent her earliest days surrounded by music, costumes, and choreography.

“My mom brought me to a dance competition when I was only five days old,” she laughs. “I’ve literally been around dance my entire life.” Dance taught her discipline, hard work, and resilience.

These qualities later became vital both on and off the runway.

Modeling, acting, and dance quickly became her passion, and if there was ever a break in her schedule, she’d beg her mom to take her to another shoot.

“I have a problem, I can’t pick which pictures to edit .” because they’re all incredible

KidFashMagazine.com/ModelingIssue2025 49

But while her world looked like lights, cameras, and beautiful pictures, it would soon take a frightening turn that would change her and her family forever.

Journey was eleven years old when it happened. She and her family lived just a few doors down from a gas station. It was a safe neighborhood, or so it seemed. One afternoon, she asked her parents if she could ride her bike there to buy a treat. Her brothers were at the park, but after begging for permission, her parents finally agreed.

As she walked into the store, she noticed a man in front of her. He didn’t speak to her, didn’t do anything specific, but something about him made her feel uneasy. “It was just a feeling,” she says.

“I felt relieved when he left the store.”

But when Journey walked out a few minutes later, treat in hand, she saw him again, standing on the side of the gas station. She paused, waiting for him to walk away. When he finally moved down the street in the direction of her house, she thought it was safe to go.

As she began pedaling home, the man slowed his pace until she caught up.

When she tried to pass, he suddenly grabbed her around the neck and tried to pull her off her bike. “I knew at that moment he was trying to take me,” she says quietly. “I just remembered what my mom had told me, if anyone ever tries to take you, scream as loud as you can and fight as hard as you can.”

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Journey was eleven years old when it happened.

Journey did exactly that. She screamed and thrashed, refusing to let go of her handlebars no matter how hard he pulled. “He was choking me, and I was hitting my chin on his arm as hard as I could,” she recalls. “I didn’t care, I just knew I couldn’t let him get me into a car or a house. My mom told me if that happened, I might never see my family again.”

Her screams echoed through the neighborhood. Startled, the man let go and whispered “okay,” as if trying to calm her, but she kept screaming until he ran off. Shaking, Journey raced home, crying, and told her parents what happened. They called 911 immediately. Police swarmed the area, retracing her steps and collecting evidence, even finding her little purse where the man had tried to grab her.

Journey gave a detailed description of the attacker (what he looked like, what he wore) and the police matched it with gas station surveillance footage. They saw him standing in line in front of her, leaving the store, then running to a car with three other men inside. The license plate led them to a registered sex offender home. Hours later, the man was arrested and confessed. He told police he had seen Journey, was attracted to her, and had planned to take her behind a vacant house to harm her. He is now serving a sentence of 18 years to life.

“And now I know, if something ever feels off, you need to trust your instincts. Don’t try to be polite.

Don’t ignore it.”

That day changed everything. “I had this feeling that something wasn’t right,” Journey says. “And now I know, if something ever feels off, you need to trust your instincts.

Don’t try to be polite. Don’t ignore it.”

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our body, “This is your life, y ething your image. I f som up." feels wrong, speak Her courage, and her parents’ constant conversations about safety, saved her life.

From that moment forward, her family made a decision: she would never attend a photoshoot, casting, or event without one of them present. “My mom or dad have always been with me at every single shoot I’ve ever done,” she says. “Even when I’m an adult, I don’t ever plan to go alone.”

Journey and her mom later shared their story on a podcast, determined to help other families understand the importance of safety. Their message is simple: talk about it early and often. “My mom always told me to remember what people look like, what they’re wearing, everything,” Journey explains. “Those details helped catch the man who tried to take me.”

As her modeling career continued, Journey learned that danger doesn’t always come from strangers on the street, sometimes it appears within the industry itself. At a recent fashion show, a designer asked her to unbutton her shirt more than she was comfortable with. “I told them no,” she says firmly. “When they walked away, I buttoned it right back up. My mom has always taught me to advocate for myself, and I’m proud that I did.”

Journey’s advice to other young models is clear: “This is your life, your body, your image. If something feels wrong, speak up.

Don’t be afraid of hurting someone’s feelings. You have every right to say no.”

Her family also takes online safety seriously. Journey’s mom manages all her social media and filters messages to protect her.

“I’m not allowed to open new DMs,” Journey says. “If anyone is rude, inappropriate, or even just seems off, we block them.”

When it comes to choosing photographers or agencies, she advises parents to research thoroughly.

“Never work with someone whose page doesn’t seem legitimate,” she says. “Reach out to models they’ve worked with before. Real professionals will never pressure you or hide information.”

back, older, wiser, and more passionate about using her story to help others. “We talked about starting a “Fight Like Journey” campaign to educate kids on what to do if they’re ever in danger,” she says. “I want to make sure other kids know how to protect themselves.”

Traveling also comes with extra precautions. “Whenever we go somewhere new, I stay close to my mom,” she says. “Even in Times Square, she still holds my hand, and I’m fourteen and just as tall as her! It might sound funny, but big cities can be dangerous. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

Her message to parents and young models everywhere is simple but powerful: “Your instincts are a gift. If something makes you uncomfortable, you don’t have to explain yourself, just leave. Any brand, photographer, or agency that truly respects you will never make you feel unsafe. Be confident, be aware, and never stop being yourself.”

Her mom’s vigilance stems from her own experience.

“When she was sixteen, she had a bad experience with a photographer,” Journey explains. “That’s why she always reminds me to research people and to never go anywhere alone.”

Through every hardship, Journey’s strength has only grown. After her father passed away when she was twelve, she took time off from modeling. Now, she’s

k, older, Now, she’s bac e wiser, and mor ut passionate abo to using her story help others.

Journey Kay’s story is one of courage, survival, and wisdom beyond her years. Remember, while modeling can be full of dreams and opportunities, safety must always come first. Because in this world, nothing is more powerful than a child who knows her worth, her voice, and her right to be safe.

ake “I want to m ds sure other ki know how to protect themselves.”

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Kate Smith @katesmith.photography

Pittsburgh, PA 54 KidFashMagazine.com/ModelingIssue2025

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