MADISON INTERVIEWS, FIRST HARD OF HEARING K-POP GROUP,
BIG OCEAN
TRAVELING TIPS
TALKS ABOUT HEADSHOTS AND THE MODELING INDUSTRY YOU CAN'T AFFORD NOT TO KNOW
Model: Yaretzi (@itsme_yaretzi)
UPCOMING SHOWS
NY FASHION WEEK
SEPTEMBER 7, 2024
PARIS FASHION WEEK
CCTOBER 4, 2024
@celaiwest
Now that I've graduated from high school, I want to take some time to work on my businesses and do some traveling before I head to my dream school, Howard University. #TeamHBCU”
@angelagrady28
I graduated from Lamar High School in Houston, TX. In the fall I'm attending Prairie View A&M to study Agriculture.
Congrats grads
Grace Krueger graduated from Bedford High School in Bedford, NH. She is going to attend Fair eld University in Fair eld, CT to pursue Nursing.
Photographer: @maddievan_
@mckenna0617
I graduated from Kingwood High School in Kingwood, Texas. I will be attending Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacadoches, Texas. I will be majoring in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Science. I will then apply for Physical Therapy School.
School is out and now it’s time to TRAVEL. In this issue I wanted to try a couple new things. So, some of the articles in here will be just a little different than what we’ve done in the past. With the theme being TRAVEL, I wanted our readers to actually learn something about traveling. There’s nothing more frustrating than having the time to TRAVEL, but not knowing where to go or what to do. I truly hope you learn something and enjoy reading this issue.
Our Cover Model is Nicole Kot (IG: @kotnicole). I’m sure you’ve seen this beautiful model somewhere before as she travels all over for modeling. You may have seen her in a fashion show in Canada, New York, etc. In her article she shares with us her journey and some of the things she likes to do when it comes to traveling to model. I’m so honored to have her as this issue’s Cover Model and can’t wait to see what her future holds.
In our 33rd Issue you will see "What Fashion Means to Me” by Kylie, you’ll see which models won our Top 10 International Model Showcase, and the best 10 travel pics that were submitted by our members. With this being our TRAVEL issue we had to include a traveling guru and who better to get advice from about traveling
than Nathan Fluellen (@worldwidenate) who has been all over the world. The thing that makes this article special is that he even answered some of the questions our members had about traveling. Another article that we have that you will enjoy as a model is about Marleise Marie our Featured Photographer. In her article she talks about the importance of a Great Headshot. Last but not least we had a chance to sit down with the famous, up-and-coming K-Pop band, Big Ocean. Oh and we can’t forget our BEST of the GOLD’S pics, our Grads feature, ads with members who won free photoshoots, and our Group Shoot spread with Old Classic Photography and designer Lala Mira in Tampa, FL.
Thank you for taking the time to read our magazine! If you would like to be published in our magazine, either send us a message on Instagram and/or Facebook. You can also reach us via our website at www.kidfashmagazine.com. For special events and opportunities, continue to follow us on Instagram @kidfashmagazine. Hope you enjoy the magazine, and I look forward to meeting you at one of our events in the near future!! Be Blessed!
MEANS TO WHAT FASHION ME?
Fashion means wearing clothes that have a personality and aren't boring. Fashion should inspire others to buy those products and inspire people to be themselves. People should express themselves through their clothing and fashion.
Model: @kylieemark
Photographer: @laramarkphotography
Written By Michelle Elizabeth
NATHAN FLUELLEN
Inspiring Adventures and Discovering Cultures Around the World
“He signed it and challenged me to see more countries than him and become an entrepreneur.”
In a world filled with diverse cultures and breathtaking destinations, Nathan Fluellen has emerged as a pioneer in inspiring others to explore the world and embrace different cultures. Through his travel experiences and the creation of World Wide Nate, an award winning travel and lifestyle web series, Nathan has become a leading influencer, motivating people to step outside their comfort zones and embark on their own global adventures. In this exclusive interview, Nathan shares his journey, memorable moments, challenges faced, and his vision for promoting a global lifestyle. He also answers questions submitted from our KidFash members about travel.
Nathan became inspired to travel and explore different cultures when his college professor at Tennessee State University gave him a copy of his autobiography which documents his travels to over 80 countries. Nathan says, “He signed it and challenged me to see more countries than him and become an entrepreneur. Since then I have been traveling the world trying to catch him.”
As Nathan traversed the globe, he noticed a lack of representation for Black Americans in the travel industry. This realization fueled his desire to inspire his peers to venture beyond popular tourist destinations and experience the enriching moments he encountered. Thus, World Wide Nate was born, a platform aimed at sharing his unique experiences and encouraging others to explore unfamiliar territories.
Nathan's most memorable adventures have taken place in Africa. From scuba diving with 12 Black tip oceanic sharks without a cage in South Africa to trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda, his experiences on the African continent have been nothing short of epic.
Nathan firmly believes that travel has the power to transform children into "super humans." By studying different cultures in school and visiting those places firsthand, children gain perspectives that cannot be found in textbooks alone. Interacting with diverse
individuals worldwide allows them to develop authentic viewpoints, fostering compassion and breaking down stereotypes perpetuated by mainstream media.
Nathan advises kids who aspire to become global explorers to immerse themselves in knowledge about the places and cultures they wish to visit. By reading extensively and watching educational videos, they can build a solid foundation and approach their travels with curiosity and fearlessness. Nathan assures them that their arrival in new destinations will be met with open arms by people eager to share their cultures.
As a travel influencer, fashion plays a significant role in Nathan's journeys. Always camera-ready, he carefully plans his wardrobe based on climate and the activities he intends to pursue during his trips. From airplane travel to city exploration and adventure sports, his fashion choices are a reflection of his vibrant personality.
Nathan highlights the unique fashion trends he has observed during his travels. In Lesotho, he discovered the traditional blankets worn by the border tribe, which later influenced the costume design in the movie Black Panther. In Paris, he noticed a resurgence of baggy clothing reminiscent of the hip-hop fashion of the 90s and early 2000s.
Nathan highlights the unique fashion trends he has observed during his travels.
Nathan's future plans involve changing the narrative around Black people and water activities across the African Diaspora.
While Nathan has been fortunate to avoid life-threatening situations and natural disasters, he has faced challenges such as missing flights or trains due to his own errors. However, he firmly believes that one's energy and mindset play a significant role in shaping their travel experiences. Nathan approaches life with curiosity, a smile, and an open mind, attracting positive experiences and encounters.
Nathan's future plans involve changing the narrative around Black people and water activities across the African Diaspora. He aims to increase the number of Black competitive surfers through his initiative, A Great Day in the Stoke. With a focus on swimming, surfing, scuba diving, yachting, and stand-up paddleboarding, Nathan envisions a world where people from all backgrounds can embrace aquatic adventures.
South Africa holds a special place in Nathan's heart. From the vibrant cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town to the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger Park and the spirit of the Zulu people, South Africa offers a unique and captivating experience that has captivated Nathan's imagination.
Now here’s the exclusive Q&A with questions from our members.
1. @falynndance asked “Where are the best places to travel for vacation?”
When it comes to vacationing, Nathan recommends some incredible destinations. For those willing to splurge, The Maldives, Seychelles, and Bora Bora offer a top-tier experience. If time is a constraint, The Bahamas and Saint Martin provide a perfect getaway. And for those seeking epic adventures, South Africa, Kenya, and Rwanda are must-visit destinations.
2. @brooklyns_fun_accessories asked “How do you fund your trips?”
Nathan explains that he often collaborates with tourism boards, promoting their destinations to his audience. However, he also takes the opportunity to pay his own way, allowing him the freedom to travel at his own pace.
3. @ibellamodella asked “How do you find fun things to do when you travel?”
Living a global lifestyle means pursuing what brings you joy around the world. Nathan suggests finding fun things by seeking out activities he enjoys back home in different countries. This approach leads him down the rabbit hole, uncovering unique and exciting experiences in each destination.
4. @kaylae2010 asked “Where do you find good places to eat when traveling?”
Nathan highlights the power of social media in discovering great places to eat while traveling. However, his foolproof strategy involves striking up conversations with locals, especially taxi drivers who often provide excellent advice. In fact, Nathan recommends paying a taxi driver to take you to the desired location for an authentic dining experience.
6. @kylieemark asked “What are some "Must-Haves" when traveling internationally?”
Nathan emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared when traveling internationally. Some essential items include a converter for electronic devices, a phone plan with free international data and texting, a power bank, a sleep mask, headphones, and a credit card with 0% international transaction fees.
8. @adriana.maecy asked “How can you find cheap flights/hotels/Airbnbs?”
Nathan's go-to choice for accommodation is Airbnb, and he recommends booking well in advance to have more options available. By planning ahead, you can secure better deals on flights, hotels, and Airbnbs.
5. @ediemaeb asked “What are some of your top packing tips?”
When it comes to packing efficiently, Nathan swears by using packing cubes. He also recommends selecting clothes based on the color of your shoes. For instance, if you pack brown shoes, opt for a more colorful wardrobe, while black shoes call for darker-colored clothing. This method not only saves space but also ensures that your baggage stays within the weight limit.
7. @gracekofficial asked “How do you find photographers when traveling?”
To capture the beauty of his destinations, Nathan turns to Instagram. He searches for photos he likes and identifies if the photographer is a local. Alternatively, he seeks referrals from tourism boards or friends to find talented photographers.
9. @leoritchievelchev asked “How to find the best places to shoot when traveling?”
Drawing inspiration from Instagram, Nathan saves photos of captivating shots that inspire him. He encourages travelers not to be shy about what inspires them, as each photo captured will always have its unique perspective.
10. @amayahbmoore asked “How do you plan for transportation to different locations when traveling?”
Nathan typically plans his transportation three months in advance, but he always has a rough idea of his upcoming destinations mapped out in his calendar. In fact, he already has plans in place until September 2025.
11. @elliecpierce asked “What are some safety tips when traveling abroad?”
Nathan shares some valuable safety tips for travelers abroad. Firstly, he advises against walking around with your phone constantly in hand, as it's important to remain aware of your surroundings. For men, he recommends avoiding keeping wallets in back pockets. Additionally, he advises travelers not to carry their passports around unless necessary, opting for photocopies or digital copies stored on their phones. Lastly, Nathan stresses the importance of informing someone of your arrival and providing details of your accommodation for added safety.
Nathan Fluellen's passion for travel and exploration has not only taken him to remarkable destinations but has also inspired countless individuals to embark on their own global adventures. His valuable insights on the best travel destinations, funding trips, finding fun activities, discovering great places to eat, packing efficiently, and ensuring safety abroad offer a wealth of knowledge for aspiring globetrotters. Through his platform, @worldwidenate, he continues to break down barriers and promote cultural understanding. As Nathan continues to make waves in the travel industry, his vision of a global lifestyle becomes more attainable and his impact more significant.
Model: @mayasworld08
Photographer: @chrisdowdallcolorsphotography
Model: @juniperlybee
Photographer: @jaceyanastasio
Model: @ava_krueger1
Photographer: @lee_simpson_dance_photography
Model: @sassyskysky04
Photographer: @littleislandphotographer
Model:
Model: @charlotte_skye6
Photographer: @cambrielittle eld
Model: @neimy_orientalmodel
Photographer: @meloyans_photography
Model: @meekawojo
Photographer: @katrina.studiophoto
Model: @italo_australian_brothers
Photographer: @augustperiodphotography
“The only place to rent magical couture costumes and gowns for kids”
MARLIESE MARIE'S JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF PHOTOGRAPHY BEGAN IN A RATHER UNEXPECTED WAY.
Are you ready to be transported into the captivating world of fashion and photography?
Today, we bring you an exclusive interview with the incredibly talented fashion photographer, Marliese Marie. With her unique approach and keen eye for detail, Marliese has become a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Let's dive in and discover the story behind her passion for photography and her valuable insights into the world of headshots.
Marliese Marie's journey into the world of photography began in a rather unexpected way. Starting her career as a commercial model, she quickly realized that the real magic happened behind the camera. Witnessing the transformative power of lighting, hair, makeup, and styling, Marliese found herself enamored by the creativity of the photographers she worked with. It was during this time that she purchased her first camera, a used Nikon, from one of these talented photographers. Little did she know that this purchase would ignite a lifelong passion for capturing beauty through her lens.
Inspired by her own experiences as a model, Marliese decided to share her knowledge and insights with others. This led her to write a book titled "Getting Your Best Headshot." The motivation behind the book stemmed from her own struggles as a model, where she had to learn the ins and outs of the industry through trial and error. Understanding the value of having access to information, Marliese wanted to empower aspiring models and actors by providing them with the answers to their burning questions. She firmly believes that having a marketable portfolio and, more importantly, a great headshot can significantly impact one's income potential and open doors to success. But why are good headshots so crucial in the entertainment industry? According to Marliese, a headshot is a person's first impression in the industry. It can be the deciding factor in whether they are called in for an audition or passed over. A truly outstanding headshot captures the subject's appearance accurately while also revealing their comfortability in front of the camera and giving a glimpse into their unique personality
Marliese emphasizes that simplicity is key when it comes to headshots. By keeping elements like makeup and clothing minimal, the viewer's attention is solely focused on the subject, increasing their chances of being noticed by casting directors.
STEPPING IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA FOR THE FIRST TIME CAN BE INTIMIDATING
Diving deeper into the world of headshots, Marliese highlights the different types and their uses. Commercial headshots, characterized by a smiling subject, are ideal for booking advertising work. Theatrical headshots, on the other hand, capture a more serious side and are essential for securing roles in TV and film. Additionally, character headshots are used to portray actors as specific archetypes, allowing them to showcase their versatility and range.
Now, let's talk about the frequency of updating headshots. While agency policies may vary, Marliese advises that if there has been a significant change in appearance, it's time for an update. Whether it's a new hair color, style, weight gain or loss, staying current is crucial in the ever-evolving entertainment industry. This applies even more so to child actors, as they grow and change rapidly, outgrowing their previous headshots in no time.
Preparation is key when heading into a headshot photoshoot. Marliese suggests keeping the wardrobe
simple, with solid colors and simple necklines. Layering pieces can also add versatility to the shots. It's better to bring more options than needed, as photographers often appreciate the chance to assist with the final selections. During the shoot, expect to change expressions frequently. Practicing different expressions beforehand can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure a successful session. While the main focus of headshot sessions is from the top of the head to the elbows, occasionally, requests for head-to-waist shots may arise. However, full head-to-toe outfits and extra shoes are generally unnecessary, as they won't be shown in the final images.
To capture the essence of happiness, health, and vitality in photos, Marliese advises models to prioritize their well-being. From getting enough sleep to staying hydrated and even bringing a small snack, taking care of oneself is crucial for looking and feeling your best during a session. By treating themselves well, models can radiate confidence and translate it into captivating images.
Stepping in front of the camera for the first time can be intimidating, but Marliese encourages models to let go of their inhibitions and try new things.Whether it' s laughing on cue or expressing different emotions, giving it their all and trusting the process allows for more successful and genuine shots. By embracing the unfamiliar, models can discover hidden facets of their personality and create truly memorable images.
For aspiring photographers looking to capture the perfect shot, Marliese offers her top three tips. Firstly, understanding light is paramount. Regardless of the talent's efforts, unflattering lighting can undermine the success of the headshots. Secondly, building strong relationships with agencies is essential. By understanding agency preferences and keeping up with headshot trends, photographers can bring out the best in their subjects. Lastly, Marliese emphasizes the importance of honest communication. It's vital for photographers to speak up if something isn't working, whether it's inappropriate makeup choices or non-marketable requests. Collaboration and expertise are what ultimately make headshot sessions successful.
Marliese advises individuals seeking headshots to prioritize experience and specialization when selecting a photographer. A seasoned professional who understands the nuances of creating flattering portraits and specializes in headshots for the entertainment industry is essential. Additionally, personal connection and compatibility play a significant role in ensuring a positive and productive collaboration.
FOR MARLIESE, A SUCCESSFUL PHOTOSHOOT IS A COMBINATION OF ELEMENTS THAT ALIGN PERFECTLY.
For Marliese, a successful photoshoot is a combination of elements that align perfectly. The lighting should flatter the subject, the location and wardrobe colors should complement each other, and, above all, the photographer should capture the subject's genuine essence. When all these elements harmonize, a moment is created, and a beautiful image is born.
With Marliese Marie's expertise and passion for capturing beauty, she continues to leave a lasting impact on the fashion and photography industry. Her dedication to empowering aspiring models and actors through her book and her commitment to creating stunning headshots sets her apart as a true visionary. As you embark on your own journey, remember Marliese's invaluable advice
Nicole Kot
A Rising Star in Modeling and Acting
Photographer: Ed (@edportraitphotography)
Designer: @il_clothing
Written By: Michelle Elizabeth
Nicole embraces the unique opportunities that come her way.
At a young age, Nicole Kot discovered her passion for storytelling and expression, which led her to pursue a career in modeling and acting. Drawn to the ability of fashion and film to convey powerful narratives without uttering a single word, Nicole found that both fields complemented each other beautifully, allowing her to bring designers' dreams to life and take on various roles as an actor. As she continues to grow and evolve in both careers, Nicole embraces the unique opportunities that come her way.
As a teenage international fashion model and actor, Nicole has had the privilege of participating in renowned events such as New York Fashion Week, Los Angeles Fashion Week, Vancouver Fashion Week, Bridal Fashion Week Vancouver, and Miami Swim Week. Each event serves as a wellspring of inspiration, showcasing distinctive styles and bringing together talented designers, models, backstage teams, photographers, and organizers. Every runway show and photoshoot presents Nicole with a chance to project her personality and creativity onto the world.
Nicole's journey in the industry began at the age of 12 when she became a reporting teen for "Teens Wanna Know." Her growing presence in the fashion world opened doors for her to have quick chats with designers and models at Vancouver Kids Fashion Week. This experience propelled her
Photographer: @edportraitphotography
Dress: @il_clothing
Model: @kotnicole
Model: @kotnicole
Photographer: @edportraitphotography
Couture
into covering iconic events such as New York Fashion Week, Los Angeles Fashion Week, and Miami Swim Week, where she had the opportunity to interview top designers, models, and influencers. From backstage interviews to capturing runway highlights, Nicole cherishes the unique vibes and memorable moments of each event, which she enthusiastically shares with her fans on Instagram.
Beyond her work in fashion, Nicole has also showcased her acting talents in various projects. In the YouTube series "My Last 2 Brain Cells" on the YAP TV channel, she plays one of two annoying boys who find themselves in humorous situations. In "Talking to Myself," Nicole portrays a teenage girl navigating her conscience, insecurities, and overthinking, leading to relatable and funny moments. Both series highlight the humorous and challenging aspects of being a teenager, resonating with a wide audience. Nicole encourages everyone to explore more entertaining teen movies and shorts on the YAP TV YouTube channel.
While Nicole's journey in the entertainment industry has been filled with remarkable experiences, she has also faced challenges. Balancing her career with school and other responsibilities requires careful organization and prioritization. However, with the support of her family and friends, Nicole stays grounded and focused. Dealing with rejection and competition can be disheartening, but Nicole approaches each audition as an opportunity to learn and improve, maintaining resilience and a positive outlook. She also acknowledges the pressure to maintain an image and face public scrutiny but stays true to herself, valuing her self-worth above others' opinions.
Beyond her work in fashion, Nicole has also showcased her acting talents in various projects.
One of Nicole's notable achievements was her role in the short movie "16" on YouTube's YAP TV channel. Portraying a trendy diva, she enjoyed embodying a confident and stylish character. Working alongside a talented cast and crew, many of whom were her peers from a local theatre school, Nicole learned invaluable lessons and felt immense pride in the final result. She invites everyone to watch "16" on the YAP TV YouTube channel and witness her growth as an actor.
As a content creator, Nicole shares her fashion expertise, teenage life experiences, and healthy lifestyle tips on her Instagram account @kotnicole. Through this platform, she connects with her audience, inspiring and influencing others. Nicole finds joy in expressing her creativity and engaging with like-minded individuals who share her interests.
Nicole's journey in the industry began at Vancouver Kids Fashion Week as a kid model and reporter. Over the years, she transitioned into walking as an adult model and became an ambassador for VKFW. As an ambassador, Nicole promotes the event, shares her experiences on social media, and inspires other youth models. Her involvement with VKFW has been a rewarding journey, and she encourages everyone to check out her recent reporting from the Fall/Winter 2024 season on her Instagram account.
Beyond her career, Nicole is passionate about promoting healthy living and sustainable fashion. She believes in taking care of our bodies and the planet, inspiring young people to adopt healthier lifestyles and be more conscious of their fashion choices. Through her engaging and approachable content, Nicole shares tips, outfit ideas, and personal experiences, making these concepts fun and attainable. She invites others to join her on a journey towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
Nicole's versatility extends beyond the world of entertainment. As a volleyball player and a member of the BC Army Cadets, she has learned the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These experiences have contributed to her confidence and success in modeling and acting. Equipped with these skills and values, Nicole feels ready to tackle any challenge that comes her way.
Nicole’s advice to young models and actors is to “Stay true to yourself, never give up on yourself and your dream. Keep working hard, improving your skills, and being authentic. People will connect with you more if they can relate to what you post. I love interacting with my fans on social media. I try to post daily, except on weekends, and stay consistent. Posting at the same time each day helps build expectations from your audience. Remember, success doesn't happen overnight. Stay focused, stay positive, and never give up on your dreams!”
“Stay focused, stay positive, and never give up on your dreams! ”
Model: @kotnicole
Traveling to different cities has greatly influenced Nicole Kot’s sense of fashion and style. Each city has its unique vibe, inspiring her to experiment with various looks and trends. For instance, Vancouver's outdoorsy and laid-back feel encouraged the addition of casual and functional pieces to her wardrobe. The fast-paced and trendy atmosphere of New York City taught Nicole to be bold and daring with her fashion choices. Los Angeles' relaxed and bohemian atmosphere inspired her to embrace flowy fabrics and earthy tones. Miami's vibrant and colorful culture motivated her to include playful and colorful pieces in her outfits.
As a traveling teenager, Nicole understands the importance of staying stylish and comfortable while on the go. She plans her outfits in advance, considering the activities of each day. Packing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, such as jeans that can be dressed up or down, is a priority. She also packs light layers to accommodate changing weather conditions and prefers comfortable shoes suitable for extensive walking. Accessories like mini purses, sunglasses, hats, and jewelry are chosen to add flair without taking up much space. Essentials like skincare products, makeup, and a mini hairbrush are always included. These tips enable Nicole to stay stylish and comfortable, allowing her to focus on exploring new destinations and enjoying the travel. In the future, she’d love to visit Italy, France, and Thailand.
Expressing her gratitude, the talented and versatile entertainer Nicole Kot leaves our readers with these parting words,“Just wanted to thank you guys for following my journey and showing support. It truly means a lot to me! I hope my story inspires you to chase your dreams, whatever size they are. If you're into fashion or acting or anything else, remember, your voice and your ideas count. Be true to yourself and never be afraid of taking risks. The world is full of possibilities, and if you work hard and believe in yourself, you can do anything!”
Model: @kotnicole
Photographer:
Designer:
@edportraitphotography
@il_clothing
@usa.yt.modelz_glam2glo
BRIANNA
(@briboudot )
Brianna is a 15-year-old girl that hails from Ontario, Canada. She started dancing at the young age of three and has been dancing competitively for seven years with acro, lyrical and musical theater being her favorite genres. She has a new found love for modeling and loves being behind the camera. She has graced numerous runways and fashion shows internationally in her short tenure of three years including; NYFW, Paris Fashion Week, Los Angeles and many runway shows in her home city of Toronto.
She was honored to be crowned Miss Teen Canada Nation Universe 2024 in April of this year. She is also part of an elite dance travel team in which she will be representing Canada in Spain July 2024. In her spare time, she loves to read, run, build puzzles and enjoys playing the piano.
Photographer:
@parisphotographer_alex.sander
NALEDI
(@little_naledi )
Naledi Legoabe is a 7 year old international model, from South Africa. She has graced several runways bringing elegance and style to this events , like New York fashion week, LA fashion week, South Africa Fashionweek. Fashion and runway is her happy place. She has a big dreams to walk for big designers and also to be featured on Vogue magazine.
She said she want to be an inspiration to her peers especial in her country, as a developing country. She wants them to see everything its possible through her, when you put work on top of your passion.
Photographer: @stephensegal_za
KRYSIAK SISTERS
(@krysiaksisters123 )
The Krysiak Sisters: Lily (13), Julia (10) and Sofia Rose (8), are from Toronto, Canada and are having the time of their lives being fashion models.
There is an interesting story about how they started to model. Their mom (whom they dub their hero) was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer when they were just 3, 5, and 7 years old. After a tough battle she beat her cancer.
A world renowned children’s photographer saw their mother’s story on social media and reached out asking if she could shoot a ‘celebration of life’ session with the girls. The shoot was a pink fairytale dream and they were hooked!
Since then they have been so fortunate to walk numerous runway shows for kids fashion week in Toronto & New York.
Photographer: @thebutterflyphotography
SOPHIE & JULIA
(@sophienjulia)
Twin girls Sophie and Julia are 11 years old and live in the Netherlands. They are identical, but with a small difference, including in their personality. Nice and stubborn, cool and cheerful, easygoing and relaxed, sporty and good at learning.
They are crazy about modeling, especially Sophie, and crazy about fashion. The twins think it is fantastic to walk on the catwalk and to be able to do assignments for different fashion labels! They feel it is an honor to be able to work together on great assignments.
Photographer: @salamonphoto
(@miafuentes18_ )
Mia is a creative 10 year old girl, she is a model and a fashion designer (@miasolomiaofficial) she has been interested in fashion and design since she was around six years of age. In 2020, Mia joined Fashion design classes for children, and created her first designer dresses. Mia recently presented her first “Upside-Down Hearts” collection in different countries including Brazil. This is a unique and beautiful collection with Mia’s favorite colors, straight from her heart to yours. Her dream is to become a fashion designer and model. She is on the rise to being one of the biggest names in fashion.
Photographer: @violetakidsphoto
CHARLEE
(@karynrn )
Charlee is a sweet 8-year-old girl from Quebec City, Canada, who’s been modeling since the age of 2. She recently discovered the world of fashion shows and runways and immediately fell in love. In the past year, she was privileged to walk for designers in Cannes, Vancouver and Ottawa. Confident, caring and passionate with a huge heart, Charlee has a bright future ahead of her.
Photographer: @cindy_hains_photographe
INDIA
(@indiawilliamsmodel )
India Sienna Rose Williams is a 14-year old runway and commercial model who since a young age has been the face of numerous children’s fashion brands, standing at 5ft 5 she has travelled and shot all over the world. India is a humble, caring and dedicated model/actress and singer who continues to live her dreams. India has been recognised by winning a number of model titles in the U.K. and internationally.
India wants to finish school and collect as many A’s as she can. She then wants to see if there is an opportunity to travel the world modeling, hopefully getting a Worldwide campaign signed with an international agency, make a Hollywood movie, and release a song she’s written. She would also like to meet Jennifer Lopez, Bella Hadid, as they are her inspiration. Eventually, she would like to design her own clothes, perfume, vegan and cruelty-free skin care and make ups ranges, continue her charity fundraising and be a positive voice for young girls worldwide.
Photographer: @annasalekphotography
LAYLA
(@laylareneemodel )
Layla Renée is 6 years old and from Bournemouth, UK.
Now, in her second year of international modeling, Layla has been selected to work for various brands across the UK and Europe. Layla is a vibrant and versatile little girl who is able to pull off high fashion, studio portraits and some fun campaigns. She loves modeling, dance and drama and feels so lucky to make the top 16 with KidFash magazine.
Photographer: @danigeddes
KHALEESI
(@khaleesiofficial )
Khaleesi has been having ballet lessons since age 3 and has enjoyed dancing in stage shows every year. At the age 6 she joined the Midland Youth Ballet and engages in showcases 4 times a year. Khaleesi also enjoys Zumba and contemporary dance. She also has singing lessons and attends drama stage screen school, which is helping her develop her acting for stage and tv and media.
Khaleesi is outgoing, confident and great with meeting new people. Feedback from many industry professionals state she takes direction well and is a delightful girl to work with.Khaleesi has a huge heart and caring nature and a generous spirit. She is creative and enthusiastic.
Khaleesi wants to concentrate on stills modeling above all and enjoys being in front of a camera. She dreams of the potential of working for brands like Angels Face, The Middle Daughter London and anything Disney in her future.
Photographer: @danigeddes
ELLIE
(@ellie.rose.star.model )
Ellie is 14 years old from Portsmouth, England. Ellie loves dancing, traveling, skiing, paddle boarding, swimming, drawing, going to theme parks, and shopping. Her favorite countries are Dubai and Lapland. Ellie loves modeling and fashion and hopes to attend New York fashion week one day either as a model or a fashion designer.
Photographer: @danigeddes
BIG OCEAN
By: Madison Harrison
“Wi me ages of “hope, love, endurance, and resi ence,,”
Usually, to travel to a different country, a person would need a passport and a few other documents before they could reach their destination. With the help of a group whose potential is as vast as the ocean, we can traverse the Pacific and reach Korea, no passport required. Enter “Big Ocean,” a Korean group comprised of members Chanyeon, Hyunjin, and Jiseok, our lovely travel guides for our trip across the globe. Although they are guiding us on our journey, they have an incredibly rich story, just like the richness of culture and traditions housed inside the country they call home.
Being the first K-pop idols (Korean pop stars) who all are hard of hearing, Big Ocean has pried open doors that were shut to many who dreamed the same dreams they did. Debuting on April 20th, coinciding with the Day of People with Disabilities in Korea, they have fostered a community of thousands of fans called Pado, the Korean word for wave. With messages of “hope, love, endurance, and resilience,” the three members chase after their dreams, one step at a time.
For Chanyeon, chasing his dreams with Big Ocean began with auditioning at Parastar Entertainment, an entertainment company primarily focused on supporting superstars who are “Rising Beyond Physical barriers,” as stated on the company website.
“There was word on the street that Parastar was organizing an idol group out of deaf artists. It was a hot topic amongst the deaf community, and I applied for the official audition.”
Chanyeon describes his dance inspirations as NCT’s Mark and RIIZE’s Shotaro, members of different senior K-pop groups. He states that “They’re impeccable dancers who make me want to learn and practice more.”
In Hyunjin’s case, he already joined Parastar when this audition occurred. Regarding his dance and musical journey, he expresses how he started dancing in the first place and cites his senior, TXT’s Yeonjun, as his dance role model.
“Dance is a very g d way expre my f ngs and oughts.
“Dance is a very good way to express my feelings and thoughts. I feel great joy when I show my moves and when people can relate to my feelings through these actions. I started dancing quite recently, so I didn’t know the charm of dancing before. But now, it is something that I cannot live without in my life… After I began training, I looked up to TXT’s Yeonjun as my role model because we are the same age and have the same MBTI (personality type). Also, I personally like his moves the most.”
Jiseok’s musical journey started a few years before he was signed by Parastar Entertainment. What sparked his interest and belief in his own dream, was the generous donation of Kim Namjoon, a.k.a. stage name, “RM”, the leader of the K-pop group BTS. RM, who’s been in the industry for over 10 years, donated to the music program at the school Jiseok attended, a school for the hard of hearing.
“I started to take interest in music all thanks to RM of BTS and his philanthropic efforts… I was also deeply moved by his desire to share a variety of music with students with hearing disabilities. He gave me an idea about music and the chance to come across music for the first time. One day, I also want to become a great artist who can have a positive influence like RM.”
This kind gesture, coupled with being inspired by fellow member Hyunjin, to attend a Parastar event, eventually led to him later auditioning and as a result, becoming a member of Big Ocean.
Their road to debut was not an easy one, as with some things in life, however member Chanyeon states that, “…the most important thing is to never stop.” Through working hard and pushing past their quit, the members of Big Ocean came together and formed a beautiful group that inspires many. Their reaction to their debut is filled with awe, described by Hyunjin in a statement.
“It feels surreal. I cannot believe the fast-growing numbers of our social media followers and views which surpass 6 million. I’m just the way I am but the world around us is changing rapidly.”
After taking the world by storm with their shining debut single, Glow, they are both humble and ambitious with their future goals. Chanyeon describes his goal as simply to improve in his craft so as to inspire their fans. Hyunjin’s goal for the group is expressed through his hope to “create a huge wave so that Big Ocean can be remembered as a wonderful group that gives hope and positive energy worldwide!” Regarding his personal aspirations, Hyunjin takes the artistic route by describing his dream to establish a museum expressing his life’s journey. He states that he wants it to be “a special place where fans can communicate in sign language and exchange gifts.”
Big Ocean’s mission as a group is built upon the desire to bring comfort to many, no matter their circumstances. Jiseok describes the group’s feelings with kind and hopeful words, wanting to express the fact that even though there are different obstacles in life, their listeners are not alone.
“I hope our music can encourage many fans in pursuing their goal. There will be various difficulties in each one of our own lives, regardless of having a disability or not. And in most cases, what hurts us the most is feeling like ‘I’m all alone.’ We want to emphasize that, ‘You are not alone. We have also been there. Don’t give up.’ We hope our music can be of consolation to many, as we have also gone through unexpected difficulties as well.”
They also have a message to their fellow differently abled dream pursuers, conveyed through Hyunjin’s words.
“When you take the courage to challenge yourself, you’re already halfway there. There was a time when I was a YouTuber before I joined Big Ocean. At the time, I was afraid of showing myself to the public and being criticized by others. But when I gathered myself and broke out of my comfort zone, I was amazed by all the positive reviews and support I got from the viewers. Rather than depending on other people’s opinions, always put yourself first. Go out there and experience failure and success on your own.”
Although they want to convey these deep emotions through their music, they are not strangers to lighter topics such as love and success. Chanyeon describes this by stating, “Even the general and ordinary topics can also change its shape as it passes through Big Ocean’s eye.”
In the process of making their music, Big Ocean mixes Korean and English lyrics with Korean Sign Language (KSL), American Sign Language (ASL), and International Sign Language (ISL). When asked if this is hard, Jiseok’s reply reflects the care, consideration, and hard work that comprises the group’s passion towards their craft and message.
“A good sign language adaptation is one that understands the overall meaning and adapts to express it. Each person has a slightly different way of expressing the same lyrics. So, it is necessary to constantly think about which expression is the most beautiful and effective way to convey the idea. Also, when writing, Big Ocean goes through a professional inspection process to double check.”
While they are making music and practicing all hours of the day, they take the time to connect with their fans called Pado, the word for wave in Korean. They do this by live streaming each schedule on their social media account, usually live streaming for around 6 hours some days. Big Ocean hopes to come to the U.S one day and meet their fans, which Hyunjin also refers to as their friends, and express their gratitude for their support. They also dream of a day when they can collaborate with the people who inspired them while on their musical journey, stating that, “It would be a great honor if we can collaborate with KPOP senior artists, BTS, TXT, and NCT. Even imagining the scene gives us goose bumps right away.”
Now that we’ve learned some facts about our wonderful travel guides, let’s learn a little more about their country, Korea, and their own travel stories.
“A g d sign nguage adap on is one at unders nds e overa m ning and adapts expre it.
As we become more famous, I ink we wi have be more sensi ve fashion.
Since this issue is about traveling, have you ever traveled outside of Korea before? If so, where did you go and what is your favorite memory?
Hyunjin: The members and company staff went to Hangzhou, China for their first overseas performance together for the Hangzhou Asian Para games. I remember that we ate a lot of delicious food, and it was really fun because it was our first time together. Also, it was special in that it was Jiseok’s first ever visit to a foreign country. So, we tried to cook up a story and tell Jiseok that we all have to take off our shoes when entering an airplane. He nearly took them off. I hope we will have many more opportunities to go together in the future.
What is your go to airport outfit?
Jiseok: Now, when I go to the airport, I prefer to wear comfortable clothes most often so I can relax on the plane. As we become more famous, I think we will have to be more sensitive to fashion.
What would you like people to know about your hometown and culture?
In Korea, there is a tradition that if you make a wish when the full moon rises, your wish will come true. I like this story because discovering the full moon means that you worked hard into the night. Since the full moon doesn't always appear, this means that you worked hard every day. I think the message that your wishes will come true as much as how hard you work has been passed down as a custom.
If you had the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world, what 3 countries would you like to visit?
Chanyeon: I really want to go to Las Vegas in the United States, the Alps in Switzerland, and Paris, France. The largest portion of our fans are from the United States, so I would like to visit there at least once. And I recently became interested in Switzerland because it is where the headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) is located. The 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games will soon be held in Paris, France, and it is expected to be a very large global event this year so, we would like to go there too.
Whether they are dancing on stage, streaming to their fans, or traveling the world, Big Ocean stays true to themselves, always thankful for their opportunities and support. Chanyeon describes this feeling by stating, “The fact that we can connect with people on the other side of the planet with different types of culture and language through our music and sign dance amazes me. Our fans truly are our driving force to work harder.” Hyunjin further states a message to Big Ocean’s fans by writing that, “The world feels so big, yet so small if you consider that the ocean covers 71% of the Earth’s surface. We, Big Ocean, are everywhere and all around you! We can feel that we are all connected just like the waves of one big ocean.”
With all this love the members have for their fans and supporters, Jiseok wraps up their sentiment in a final statement, “I feel grateful that our fans will always be there and support us anywhere we go in the world.” From one ocean to another, Big Ocean bridges the gap of distance with their huge hearts and glowing smiles.
When it comes to TRAVEL, I enjoy traveling to new destinations and making beautiful memories.
CHRISTIAN
(@ttamodels_talent)
Age: 16 Location: New York, NY Photographer: Ivona Kaplan (@ivonakaplan)
SOPHIA
(@ttamodels_talent)
Age: 16 Location: New York, NY Photographer: Ivona Kaplan (@ivonakaplan)
When it comes to TRAVEL, I enjoy exploring new places and meeting different people as it help me bring authenticity and depth into my acting roles.
Age:
Location: Location: Las Vegas, NV Photographer: Dave Feiling (@dafeiling)
SYLVIA
(@sylviaye789)
Age: 11 Location: Los Angeles, CA Photographer: Elsie Rose Photography (@elsierosephotography)
When it comes to TRAVEL, I go all around the world to find different cultures. I love to go around the world and experience different foods, and outfits.
When it comes to travel, I always overpack! Traveling makes me feel like I’m in another world. I travel a lot with my family and friends as well as for modeling. I love discovering new countries, cultures, and meeting new people.
OLD CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHY
(@irinkac33)
Tampa, FL
By:
Dresses
Lala Mira (@lalamirao cial)
Models
Aleksa (@realmamusik)
Dior (@dior_ilkhomi)
Kaydence (@cheerleaderkaydence)
Made by 12-year-old fashion designer Poppy Gillett
