Walk Magazine Issue 3.5

. w WALK MAGAZINE

issue 3.5

TONY VISIONS

Tony Visions LLC was established 2017 and has kept its primary goal simple empowerment through fashion. Starting with street wear and sights always on luxury, we quickly adapted to a clean blend of street luxury. Taking what is authentic from real life and adding glamour to it all. As we continue to redefine Street Luxury we keep current culture at the top of our minds in addition to sustainability. With over 75% of all collections being custom, sustainable, and Eco friendly, we do all we can to play our part in a fashionable new world.

TONY VISIONS

Q11 Photography

mercedes M A L O N

I AM A MODEL LOCATED IN THE METRO DETROIT AREA. AS A LITTLE GIRL, FULL OF PERSONALITY AND INTO FASHION, MY MOM LET ME GET A FEEL FOR THE MODEL WORLD EARLY. MY FACE WAS THE COVER OF METRO PARENT AND I WALKED IN FASHION SHOWS FOR STORES LIKE HEAVY HITTER’S AND FOR KIDS ONLY, ETC. AS I GOT OLDER AND STARTED TRYING NEW THINGS, MODELING SLIPPED AWAY. PEOPLE WOULD ALWAYS TELL ME “YOU LOOK LIKE A MODEL!” OR “YOU SHOULD MODEL!” IT WASN’T UNTIL I GRADUATED FROM MICHIGAN STATE THAT I FELT LIKE I WAS READY TO GET BACK INTO THE MODELING INDUSTRY. HERE I AM NOW, MODELING SINCE LATE 2018 AND I TRULY BELIEVE I HAVE FOUND MY PASSION. I HAVE DONE PRINT AND EDITORIAL MODELING WORKING WITH SOME GREAT PROFESSIONALS. ONE OF MY PRINTS MADE IT TO BE THE DETROIT COVER MODEL OF WALK FASHION SHOW. I HAVE ALSO DONE RUNWAY; I HAVE WALKED IN NYFW & LAFW. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF WALKING FOR CELEBRITY DESIGNER, STEVIE BOI IN LA AS WELL. “DO NOT LET REJECTION STOP YOU, LET IT MOTIVATE YOU. WITH PASSION, PERSISTENCE, PATIENCE & PERSEVERANCE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.” I LOVE PRINT, EDITORIAL AND RUNWAY AND WOULD LIKE TO DO COMMERCIAL IN THE FUTURE. MY MODELING CAREER TOOK OFF FOR ME FASTER THAN I EXPECTED AND I AM TRULY GRATEFUL. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE WHAT I DO AND I AM 100% COMMITTED. I CONTINUE TO GROW DAILY AND KNOW THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING FOR ME. CHECK OUT MY PORTFOLIO AND FOLLOW ME ON MY JOURNEY TO BECOME A HIGH-END FASHION MODEL. MUCH LOVE, MERCEDES MALON WWW.MERCEDESMALON.COM

Tanzinia R E I D

TANZINIA REID I am Tanzinia Reid, Miss Ragazza International Model 2018, a self-taught runway angel! Often, I get asked, "What advice can you give anyone wanting to get into modeling?". I am going to share my advice on what I experienced along the way. I hope this will give a lot of people the advice they need to take that next step for their career. Just a disclaimer, everyone's life experiences are different, and what worked for my life might not give you the same results. However, this will provide you with complete insight into the mindset you will need to manifest your career in modeling. I started to gain more interest in becoming a model the older I become. I loved how confident the women were, passionately strutting down the runway. I wanted to experience that feeling for myself. Which brings me to my first piece of advice. Pursue professional modeling only if you are passionate about it. How bad do you want this? How far are you going to push yourself to make sure you can support this dream? Does your gut fill with excitement or butterflies when you think about modeling? Ask yourself these questions. Going through the beginning stages of modeling is going to be absolutely challenging. Everything you thought you knew about modeling coming into this, is not like what it seems. Do not let anyone or anything stop that passion from burning inside of you. No matter how long it takes, no matter how many attempts, keep going! My second piece of advice is to find out why you are doing this. Ask yourself, "Why do I want to do this?". Life is about exploration, so explore your mind and discover what it is that you want for YOURSELF. Do not let outside influences be the reason for your life choices. My reason for pursuing this career was to experience the confidence that supermodels embodied on the runway for myself. I was battling with my selfconfidence. In my mind, modeling would give me the assurance of selflove that I have been longing for. Even if that meant pushing past my fears of what people would think of me. While on that runway, all eyes and cameras are on you. I didn't let my own cowardice stop me, I would pray before every show and made sure I took my deep breaths to collect myself before I hit that runway! You will need to have a strong sense of self. Don't lose yourself in the process. My final and most essential piece of advice; make sure you have self-assurance. You have to love yourself 100 times over. You must love everything about you, this industry will expose things about yourself that you never knew could be an issue. It is a true test of self-love when you are to be put up against other beautiful women for a spot in the lineup, but don't worry! Just because you didn't get into the show you wanted at that time, doesn't mean you aren’t beautiful or talented. It doesn’t mean you get selected the next season. Know that you are enough and that your time will come! Know that everyone will have something to say about you, about your walk, about your skin, hair, nail, teeth. They will judge every part of your body, but they’re all just opinions, not everything you hear will be positive. Do not stop! Take what you heard and let it build your character. Show yourself that you are more than what they are trying to say that you aren't. I hope that this advice will help any soul in need of it. This world is not gentle all of the time, but it's worth fighting for the chance to create your version of a perfect world.

Remember, your road to success will not just pop up, it will need to be created by you! Peace, love, and blessing to all of you!

Durag GoddessPhotographer: @brandonj.photos

megan D A V I D S O N

Megan Davison @megaandavison Photos by: Peter Levins

Phillip White

Model:PhillipWhite (@phillfromthefuture) Photographer:WilliamJohnson (@ankhs.world) CreativeDirector:WilliamJohnson (@ankhs.world) AssistantStylist:Martia Mae Mariano (@martiamae) Brand:ConsumeChris (@consumechris) Production: Egg Studios NYC

NOV 2016 $3.50

STORY: “KILL PAIN” CREATIVE DIRECTION ME

PHOTOGRAPHY TAMMY HODGES

JAY WILKINSON

Coco Grace

PHOTO CREDIT FRANK ZAYAS

e u q i N . s M

ANTOINNE DUANE JONES - PHOTOGRAPHER | DRESS: TOUCHDOLLS BOUTIQUE

JAMIE HATCHER Model: Jamie Hatcher, IG: @jamiethemodellPhotographer: Cami Hatcher, IG: @Candi.yamCamera: iPhone XRÂ Title: Quarantined in

R I T U Captured by@theframephotographers Edited by@fotographie.himjj

M A L I K

Raymond Long

Miguel Wilson Men Collection

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

T H E

M O R R O W T W I N S

LYLA O ' C O N N O R

PEYTON STUEWE WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

ROCQUI SWEEZER

PHOTOGRAPHER Omar Ramos

OLIVIA PARMAR

KYIA PHIDD

SHEKINAH My name Is Shekinah, I originate out of Cinti, Ohio but im currently located in ATL,GA WHERE MY MODELING CAREER IS EMERGING FANTASTICALLY! Soon I’ll be the face of MOST if not ALL OF THE WORLDS FAMOUS HIGH FASHION BRANDS. I have worked along side many greats, blessed to have been an assistant stylist at Fashion Week Columbus for Christen Cowen and walking for ATL NATIVES AND CELEBRITY DESIGNERS LIKE RECO CHAPPLE OF HOUSE OF CHAPPLE, and YOVANNA MOMPLAISIR OF MOMPLAISIR by yovanna of ATL HOUSE WIVES representing both designers at ATL FASHION WEEK 2019. I’ve represented emerging designers like Shontay Racquel from NYC and Twist Fabric at BET BLACK WOMENS EXPO 2019. I’ve been apart of celebrity designer MIGUEL WILSON SHOWS LIKE THE MIGUEL WILSON FASHION EXPERIENCE OF ALPHA DERBY WEEKEND 2019 & Atlanta FASHION POLO CLASSICS 2019 REPRESENTING EMERGING DESIGNERS ANDREA WILLIAMS OF DELICATE KREATIONS AND YEMI OF HOODED BY YEMI. WHICH BOTH DESIGNERS HELPED ME KICK DOWN THE FASHION DOORS IN ATL! I’ll soon be blessing the stages of all major fashion weeks, magazines, billboards, etc... YOU NAME IT I'M CLAIMING IT. NOT ONLY AM I A SUPER MODEL , I'M AMERICAS NEXT TOP MODEL REPRESENTING AND INSPIRING WOMAN ALL AROUND THE WORLD!

Armani Hawkins

BANU N E T H

PHOTOS BY: @actioncarolina

BANU NETH

KARINA

Model: Karina Loktionova Photographer: Dennis Madigan Designer: Papillon Dezigns

S T O R M I

R I V E R S

MEET THE STYLIST

MICHAEL CONLEY

Michael Conley aka Tailored Ankles, and I’m a dapper stylist. I’m 28 years old and I love a well tailored suit and loafer to match. I take pride in my “thing” that makes my fashion style me. I never was really into suits until my grandfather introduced me to his tailor. I had a small conversation with him and one thing stuck out and that was “Dress for the conversations you want to have” and from that day I begun to wear suits. I like breaking the rules when it comes to wearing a suit, different patterns/ color combinations and not wearing the traditional shoes to compliment. I earned the nickname “Ankles Out” or “Tailored Ankles” from wearing my pants either with a cuff or tailored above the ankle to fully expose the loafer I am wearing. One thing I can say is that I love dressing up for any occasion. “make fashion fun” is something I can live by!

I have been in dapper fashion for 6 years now and I have no regrets. I have since then joined a group of distinguished gentlemen and businessmen called “Gentlemen’s Den”. We are a culture shock to the fashion community of Detroit. We also hold business meetings, events, videos and photoshoots. We are now working on a co-working space for individuals. I have dreams of becoming the stylist for stars like Steve Harvey, T.I. , Jidenna, and many others . I love dapper .... and it has grown to love me.

NOMADIC

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BROOKE FORTUNATO

S A V AM N N A O O R E

SUPHERMODEL

Photographer: @vagabondaesthetics | Model:@suphermodel | Makeup: @dazzledbyfae

MODEL: LAUREN BARGER @LAURENBARGERR HAIR/MAKEUP: LAUREN BARGER @LAURENBARGERR PHOTOGRAPHER: ELIJAH WILLIAMS @E.LIJAHWILLIAMS CREATIVE DIRECTOR: HANAH WILLIAMS @HANAH_WILLIAMS

LAUREN BARGER

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

Palyce Jeveron is from Virginia Beach, VA but currently resides in West Palm Beach, FL. Her modeling began at a young age when her mother started teaching her how to walk.

Posture straight. Elongate Legs. Fierce face.

"Now walk...2..3..4..5..6..7..8, and strike a pose.. now turn around.. strike again...and walk..2..3..4..5..6..7..8", she would sing and it was history ever since. Palyce's first model competition was at age 7 at the YMCA. She modeled two pieces and danced to Ciara's 'Oh' and came in second place, but she wanted more. She posed for pictures with confidence and her passion for modeling followed her to college. She joined George Mason University's Model Troupe 'Rated R' in 2016. Here, she fell in love with runway and perfected her walk, becoming a campus favorite. She slayed the runway and made choreography for the troupe for 5 successful productions, making memories she'd never forget. However in 2018, Palyce decided to relocate to FL in search for better opportunities for her modeling and singing career and a new scenery. Since being in the sunshine state, shes walked for Brandon B. Roman, an independence designer, in his Sunset Goddesses Collection. She has walked for WALK Fashion Tour,  an independent designer touring brand, in June and December of 2019. She's also participated in another independent showcase  in Miami for the Kyoto Haiti Cultural Experience Show as well. Her most recent venture was NYFW February 2020 where she was granted the opportunity to walk for 5 designers with the WALK brand.

She is looking forward to the end of COVID19 to continue slaying runways (Especially with WALK Family) and building relationships with photographers to expand her portfolio. Follow her on Instagram @worldofpaly_ to join her journey!

PALYCE

MONICA NORDLIN

cydni S K Y Y

WWW.CYDNISKYY.COM PHOTO BY: MICAH SHUMAKE

SEMU E L Y E

NOV 2016 $3.50

SABRINA MOSER

MODEL: SABRINA MOSER @sabmoserSHOT BY: HANNAH BREISTOL @haban_photography STYLED BY:Â HANNAH BREISTOL @haban_photographyHAIR AND MUA: BRIANNA MCDONALD @blendsbybrianna

ANGELINA TUDOR

Ariana Dutch

Photo by: Chettara T Photography Planned by: Mechelle Seigletz Castelli Model: Ariana Dutch Jacket by: Adam Levine

Joshua P A C K A R D

N I C O L E

Photographer: Tyler MoncriefMakeup: @beautybyyaya

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

ERIKA

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Myesha

K I R K S E Y

Mintu Verma @Mintuvermaofficial

DARION TIMBREZA

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K I M DAVIS Photographer: Steve McCoy

ELENA ANGELICA

PHOTO BY OMPRAKASH SELVARAJ

PRINCE ERIC NILES CHIPETA

Photo by: Tina Chipeta

JAZMINE KING

My name is Jazmine King, I'm 29 years old, born and raised from Buffalo,NY. Modeling has always been a dream of mine since I was 10 years old. Being in front of a camera or on the runway brings me so much excitement. When I turned 18 I had an opportunity to sign with an agency. Immediately following that, I was involved in a major car accident that nearly ended my life. I'm happy to say that God saw fit for me to be able to share my story with many. I know He is not done with me yet, I still have work to do and accomplish. My scars tell a wonderful story that I am not ashamed to tell and I will continue to tell my story on this journey. If I didn't allow the accident to hold me back, I'm not about to allow anything or anyone to keep me from my dreams and destiny that I am meant to accomplish. This is just the start of something BIG.

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WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

OCTAVIA

Regina Warren By: Kevina White Regina has held high rank while serving our country, as well as the community. Her skills in community outreach, business operations, project management, budget and finance within the workforce, accounting, and administration attribute to her 360° wealth of knowledge.

Amongst her professional affiliations are the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Center for Leadership and Development, and awarded the Lean 6 certification in 2010 from Defense Finance and Accounting Service as a civilian professional. She serves on several Board of Directors in her community, such as the Indiana Black Chamber of Commerce.

Regina is a paid professional for various organizations such as personality camps, cheerleading and dance teams, freelance modeling, and currently as an actress/model with Helen Wells talent agency.

She is a professional model coach, hosting bootcamps nationally with over 300 models in attendance.

Most important of all her acclamations: she is a lover of God, wife, and mother of 4 boys!

Abeke TEYIBO

It’s been difficult staying inside, but I’ve been enjoying the peaceful stillness. I routinely practice on keeping my mind calm, and I'm always thankful for the little moments. Everyday, I make sure to get dressed in my favorite outfits and to keep myself occupied. Sometimes a good outfit can make you feel better, and makes you have a positive aura. I love any look that embraces who I am as a person.

I believe my style is simple, yet significant to my individualism.

Marissa Armani Miles is a 12 year old model, actress, singer, artist, designer, and entrepreneur. Marissa loves to draw and paint.

Marissa sings and also writes some of her own songs. She is the owner of Marissa’s Unique Boutiques where she sales her all Natural Organic Homemade lip gloss and lip balm, 10free toxins nail polish and custom tutus, tube tops and tube dresses among other clothes.

Marissa is homeschooled and from South Carolina.

MARISSA ARMANI MILES Photographer: Regina L. Mack-Miles | Stylist: Regina L. Mack-Miles | Hair Stylist: Regina L. Mack-Miles

KAITLYN DAVIS Age 9 soon to be 10, an aspiring model and actress, I love watching the models walk down the runway. I enjoy walking myself. I’m not your normal sized kid. I am a bit bigger than most kids my age.

That doesn't stop me nor does it shake my confidence, I have a fierce walk! Doing small shows here and there help me with my stage presence. I meet new people at every event and it’s always exciting meeting new designers! Just like this amazing show I will be in soon!

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

TYRA D. SINGER, SONGWRITER, ACTRESS, & MODEL Rising from the Southside of Chicago, Tyra D is a singer/songwriter, actress, and model. From pirouettes to the big stage, Tyra D has been in Performing Arts since the age of four. Marrying her love of performance, she found in ballet and modeling classes with her passion for singing attained by performing in the school choir since grade school, Tyra D recognized her calling! She began creating her own opportunities to perform by writing movie scripts as a young child.

Tyra D has audacious, yet graceful stage presence.

Addicted to the limelight, she went on to AMDA College and Conservatory of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, CA, naturally, majoring in Performing Arts with a concentration in Musical Theatre. Tyra D is represented by Lily’s Talent Agency for Chicago based acting and modeling. In 2016, Tyra D released her first single “Afraid to Love” discussing her apprehensiveness of entering a new relationship. This single built a buzz for the R&B singer who was featured in Elevator, True Star and Cliché Magazines. She was also interviewed

by Power 92 radio personality, Chi-Blizz. She plans to follow in the footsteps of icons like Chaka Khan and Bruno Mars. With the October 2019 release of her single “No Reply” as well as her upcoming EP that is in the works, Tyra D assures she is well on her way. Tyra D is an artist to keep an eye out for as she breaks into the entertainment industry.

WWW.TYRAD.ME

W A S H I N G T O N

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

Sha'Mia

Olivia B R O O K S

Photographer: Jason Ramon Hair: Kwentaia Davenport Makeup: Danai Alyse Wardrobe stylist: Sydnee Haskins

sydnee H A S K I N S

LATERIA WILLIAMS

MANISHA PATIL HAPPINESS UNLIMITED HAPPINESS ALWAYS

Happiness is not dependent on physical objects. Objects, possessions, gadgets are designed to give us comfort. Physical comfort is different from emotional comfort, Happiness is a feeling. Happiness is our internal creation and can be created irrespective of external comforts. We use the objects as a stimulus to create a response, but the response is our choice. Different people create different responses, using the same stimulus. Stop Postponing happiness Happiness is a state of being, created while working towards the goal not a feeling to be experienced after achieving the goal. If we believe that happiness is after achieving, then we create stress, anger and fear while achieving, and thus do not experience happiness. Before I take the responsibility of those around me, I need to take responsibility of my own thinking an feelings. When I am happy and take care of others, then they will be happy.

8102 GUA

Aaqilah AbdurRasheed

photographer ricthornton

Nerdy Gangsta is a clothing line designed to show that being smart is cool. Our mission is to encourage people to be driven, innovative game changers who pursue their dreams and aspirations with boldness and passion. We hope to inspire people to use their talents and gifts to affect change and make a difference.

Shelvy Marbury is co-founder of the clothing line Nerdy Gangsta Inc. Nerdy Gangsta is a lifestyle clothing brand, designed to show the power of being smart, bold, innovative, and fearless to accomplish your dreams and make a difference. The collection spans a wide range of products including tshirts, hoodies, COVID-19 masks, pullovers, crop tops, leggings, hats, headbands, jackets, and back packs and can be purchased at: www.nerdygangstainc.com

Marcelis Alexander I’m a passionate creative that resides in Fort Worth, TX , an alumni from AMDA Performing Arts in Los Angeles. I have featured as a Dance Artist with The Luminairo Ballet, NB2 Nashville Ballet, The Chinese Arts Alliance, Terrance Martin Johnson dance project and Ballet North Texas . Most recently I performed internationally at DanceX Belize in Belize city. I got my start in fashion with Halifornia Apparel March 2019 as a Brand Ambassador & expanding my horizons & career. In February 2020 I starred as a featured model in my first runway show with Walk Fashion Show NYFW showcase with brand ART IV PLAY which was also an amazing experience. I currently teach dance at Joffrey Ballet School, The Block, and Cosmopolitan Dance.

Connect with me on Instagram at marcelis_alexander

Jessika Evonne Artistry

OF JUS COUTURE COSMETICS

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

By Pauline Bynum

On a beautiful Sunday afternoon in February I headed to Studio Expo in Southfield for a beauty editorial shoot with professional makeup artist and owner of Jus Couture Cosmetics, Jessika Evonne White, for the launch of her brand’s new website in April. Jessika prides herself in being curious, creative, unique, redefining artistry, and going for what she wants no matter the odds, all to allow people to “express themselves through beauty” she said. You can instantly sense her drive and passion for all she does when in her presence, after all, Jessika started her cosmetic company at the age of seventeen with the goal of “challenging beauty standards by providing high quality cosmetics and services that allow you to express yourself.” She started off handcrafting her cosmetics in the basement of her home in Detroit because she was tired of wearing products that didn’t work for her, knowing that many women and men of every color share this experience. Jessika has made sure her products are for everyone as well as being “vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free.” This attention to detail is apparent not only in the photos of her work, but also during her shoots, upon arrival she immediately put a moisturizing sheet mask on my face followed by primer to not only provide a solid base for the makeup but because she works hard to embrace her models’ natural beauty.

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

JESSIKA EVONNE ARTISTRY

Jessika recounted “growing up I was always told that I couldn’t wear certain colors because of the size of my lips and the color of my skin. But after I grew older I realized I can wear what I want to because I am beautiful, I am class, I am bold and who are they to tell me what I can and cannot wear.” It is this self confidence and belief in her brand that provides Jessika the ability to achieve any creative endeavor she sets on as a “muagrapher,” a term she’s coined meaning makeup artist and photographer. Some of her proudest achievements include being published in Ellements and Shuga magazine, mentored by celebrity makeup artists Danessa Myricks, James Vincent, and Cozzette, and having Jus Couture Cosmetics as an exhibitor at the BET Women’s Expo. For those embarking on their own journey in this industry she advises to “take your time...never rush a project or success...[and] most importantly [don’t] be fearful...trust in God and never walk in fear. Believe in yourself, even when no one else does.” With this mindset Jessika plans to continue growing and expanding, she said “I’m not putting a limit on what’s next for me and my brand.”

Credits: makeup, hair, photographer, & stylist Jessika White Artistry @jessikaevonne owner of Jus Couture Cosmetics @_juscouture shot at Studio Expo in Southfield, MI @officialstudioexpo jewelry from ALDO @aldo_shoes article written by Pauline Bynum @paulinepenche

ART IV PLAY

My name is Kendu-Marquette Williams, I’m the creative director of my clothing brand ART IV PLAY UNISEX ARTISTIC STREETWEAR. I’m from Chicago, IL and has been a resident of Dallas, TX for 4 years now. I’m the second to oldest of 4 kids.

Created in December 2016 but launched in 2017, my brand represents strength, liberation and elevation. It was led by determination, faith, and strength, shortly after the passing of a younger sibling of mine due to an gun accident in June 2017.

I was featured in my first show weeks after my first collection “IV” which launched October 4th 2017. With faith and determination to keep going throughout my everyday trials, I was blessed to have released 3 successful collections, featured on a Dallas based Entrepreneur reality show titled “Millennials of Dallas : Season 3.”, Voyage Dallas Magazine, Walk Fashion Show NYFW showcase in February 2020.

My newest collection “LIBERATION” will be released May 15th online, featuring items such as track pants, windbreaker jackets, body cross bags and more.

To connect and follow myself and my brand on Instagram at : ARTIVPLY & KNDUIVPLAY

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

Vanya

Meghan B A K E R

OLIVIA P A R M A R

Growing up while in school I was bulled and in one of my past relationships, I was told I was fat, ugly, had a big nose, and too short. I used to look at America's Next Top model, and say, "Wow, I would love to model one day, but I'm nothing compared to those models." After a while, I believed all the negative thoughts people spoke into my spirit. It played over and over again in my subconscious mind, and I began to selfsabotage myself. At one point in my life, I was in an abusive relationship. As a result, I went through a state of depression, and lost 20lbs in a week and a half because I stopped living.

I thought maybe if I was skinnier, he would love me more. I didn't like who I became. I lost my self-worth, self-esteem, confidence,

Damia Gordon WHO AM I? I am a single mom, with many scars I wore deep within. So many years, days, and nights I have cried because I felt defined by my circumstances and rejections in life, that I wasn’t good enough. I have had so many disappointments in my life that I felt I was bound to loose. I was raised in a great home, but lived in a bad neighborhood where there were drive-by shootings frequently during the week, people were beaten in front of our house, we were robbed three times, and twice at gun point. When the police were called in our neighborhood at different times, they didn’t arrive until an hour later or never showed up. I lived in the neighborhood, but was not of the neighborhood. My parents have always instilled in us to get an education, be a leader and not a follower, and keep God first in our hearts. As I got older, I felt things needed to change, but didn’t understand how to go about making a change.

DAMIA GORDON | WHO AM I?

I made up in my mind, to never give up from this day forward, speak words of affirmation into my life, overcome my fears, showcase all my gifts, talents, and give it everything I got.

As a way of stepping out of my comfort zone, I volunteered to be in my first fashion at a large networking event. Negative thoughts did cross my mind, when I saw the other models, but I told myself, “I may be the shortest and curviest model out of all them, but I’m going to bring it.” As a result of never giving up, and keep pushing to have a better life style for my daughter and I, I went back to school and double majored in business and finance with an “A” average. I am a part of an organization that helps to feed millions of kids across the

forgot how to be happy again. I loss so much in my life, that I felt like there was no hope. I

U.S., I’ve been blessed to now be a fashion and

stopped talking, smiling, and being me. I even tried to commit suicide because I felt life

background, being modeling for 11 months,

wasn't worth living. I was begging to be free, so I called on God, and HE rescued me. I decided to live and now I have a beautiful 17

plus size model, six photoshoots, made a

year old daughter, who reminds me I am enough every day in my life. I live and breathe

daughter and I were published models in CIE

to see her happy. There are so many times I felt I’ve disappointed her by my failures, challenges, and obstacles I’ve faced. I’ve often

finalist for Cynthia Bailey(from Real

found it difficult to survive with a one household income to keep a roof over our

coached models at a fashion show, recently

head. At one point in my life, I lost my job, and as a result, we lost our home, foreclosure ,bankruptcy now on my record, bills were

back to others by mentoring individuals

behind, at times no food in the house, car broken down, not enough gas in the car, and was emotionally broken deep within. I tried to hide the weight of my challenges deep within, but I couldn’t hold it any longer. I broke down and cried, she came and wrapped her arms around me, saying, “Mom, it’s not your fault. We will get through this. God will provide and things will get better. Please don’t cry. I appreciate everything that you are doing, and love you so much!” It uplifted my spirit. I decided to keep pushing for us. I am in the process of rebuilding my life. I couldn’t allow the challenges, obstacles, and negativity in my life to stop me from living on purpose. My daughter and I depend on each other.

runway model with no experience been in 19 fashion shows and counting as a name for myself in the modeling industry on Instagram as @sassyclassymodel, both my Fashion magazine and was named model Housewives of Atlanta), listed on three websites, face of a beauty company, crowned MRS CA US Nation 2020, giving interested in getting into the modeling industry, and in the process of publishing two books this year. My daughter and I are the modeling dynamic duo. I am determined to change the narrative of our life by creating multiple streams of income, leave a legacy, and build an empire for my daughter to inspire others to live their dreams and never give up. As I reach higher levels of success, I continue to stay humble, take those with me that want to go, always teachable, know that anything is possible, stand in confidence in who you I am, know that I am valuable, beautiful inside and out, and that blessings are limitless with God when you believe! The scars in my life made me who I am! My journey is not over, it’s just getting started!

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

MONIQUE LA BOMME Monique La Bomme was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. At the age of 13, she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Over the years she began to embrace her condition and vowed to spread awareness and support. As a child she always dreamed of modeling. She would study the photos and walks from America’s Next Top Model episodes and constantly work on her “smize” techniques. With a freelance photographer as a father, there was always an opportunity to practice.

After high school, Monique attend San Jose State University and graduated with a B.S. in Food Science and Technology. As her health continued to change she applied for a Diabetic Alert Service Dog and was paired with Waimea, a now 6 year old black Labrador Retriever.

In October of 2019, Monique decided to give modeling a real shot. She began to submit to castings weekly for anything she could find fashion shows, hair shows, photoshoots, etc.

She has since been in 12 fashion shows including WALK Fashion Show LA, The Model Experience, and IFSM. Monique has done background work on a music video for the KPop Sensation BTS. She has worked on photoshoots with Michael Vincent Academy and Myabetic, a luxury handbag line specifically made with diabetics in mind. She has also been published in CIE Fashion Magazine’s December 2019 issue. She is currently signed with Brandy Brown Models Management. Monique’s main goal is to continue to spread awareness and debunk negative stereotypes associated with diabetes (regardless of the type). Many people of color who are diagnosed with diabetes feel alone and under represented in the community.

Monique continues to fight for her dreams to show others that they can achieve their goals. It doesn’t matter if you are chronically ill, disabled, a person of color, or have any other obstacle in your way. Your dreams matter and it’s up to you to fight for them. If Monique can do it, so can you.

Monique can be found via Instagram, @moniquenicolee Photos by: Michael La Bomme IG: thebomme_photography

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

Nathanael

A U L E R

anitra B Y R U M

TONY ALCAZAR

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

AJAH W I L L I A M S IG @AJAH.__

SELENE & KATHERINE W E I S S

Photography by Stephan Partipilo

Madden Z O O K

Photographer: Lerae May

i d m a n N

Naudia

C H E R R Y

FASHION DESIGNER

Lorenzo Peña

Model @ etherealchocolategoddess  Photographer @dwsnapshotStylist Stylist: @monsieur_parie

FASHION DESIGNER

Lorenzo PeĂąa

Model @alyraeeee Photographer @ytmm_photo

Model @barrybartlett_ Photographer @jstarlingphotog

FASHION DESIGNER

Lorenzo Peña IG: gatitosucio_

Growing up watching my mother sew while I sat in a basket next to her sewing machine was the beginning of my fashion journey. Born and raised in Los Angeles was a blessing to my career. I’ve always been artist sketching anything and everything till I decided to go to Fashion school and that’s where it all began. I’m known for the “ Chain Designer” I create designs that are different and not traditional from chain corsets to chain dresses. I don’t really label my style because I can be designing street wear to couture and change it up the next time. I’ve had fashion shows in San Francisco to New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, the list goes on but home is Los Angeles. My mother has always been my inspiration to create and to show all of me through my designs ... her blessings and advice keep me going but there’s one particular one that stays in my heart “ Where ever Life takes you in your career always stay humble and grateful” I will continue our family legacy of designers in creating beautiful masterpieces to show the world.....

Photographer @cos1bygerard Model @adhamgains

autumn R U S S E L L

5.3 EUSSI ENIZAGAM KLAW

Autumn is a published fashion, editorial, and runway/catwalk model. A Detroit native, she is 5'11, half Jamaican. She loves creating work that "tells a story" and "engulfs the viewer".

Representing different brands around the city and supporting local artists. "If you are going to put your effort into something, make it worthwhile, give it all you got and always keep pushing even if the odds are against you. Too often people let the fear of failing stop them from pursuing. But if you really want it, be confident, reluctant and transformative.

Invest in yourself."Aside from modeling, Autumn is a professional graphic designer, web designer and filmmaker.

Using her creative skills on multiple platforms. She is currently with modeling agencies in Michigan but aspires to be signed with a major agency outside of Michigan, expanding her reach. https://www.autumnrussell.com/

Model/Editor/Creative Director: Autumn Russell @beau_audi Photographer: Bill Barnard @barneypho

Ashton M C C O R V E Y

Ashton is a 6 year old boy that takes direction well, is easy to work with, and has a great personality. He is an aspiring model and actor in which he is a student graduate of the On Camera Kids Acting program at the Maile school in Winter Park, FL. Within one year, he has participated in 11 fashion shows in Orlando, Miami, Atlanta, and New York; including NYFW Winter 2020. He has been in two films, in which he played a boy in a short, independent thriller called Woke; and the other role of Jared, an orphan boy, in an independent movie called Seasons of Sacrifice.

Modeling is his passion and he’s willing to put in the work to make it big!

B.YB.EGAMI@ :REHPARGOTOHP

Angela Vaughan

Tobi Olamide Alabi Tobi Olamide Alabi popularly known as Thecatwalkcoach started his career back in 2014 as a model in Accra, Ghana. He has walked on reputable fashion shows in and outside Nigeria such as glitz Africa fashion week, Ghana fashion and design week etc... On the 9th day of March 2017, he launched his career to becoming a catwalk instructor to help groom/mold and educate aspiring models and beauty Queens on the importance of catwalk, etiquette, poise, posture and charisma etc as he believes proper catwalk gives a model more appraisal on the runway than height and skin color. To list a few of his achievements, he became the first catwalk instructor for a model competition in Lagos, Nigeria (Luxury Model Search), he trained and groomed the current reigning MBGN Ecowas’19, The Nigerian Queen(1st runner up) among many other queens, he is the first catwalk instructor to sign a partnership deal with Zikel Cosmetics for the face of Zikel beauty pageant, he is the head scout for a few modeling agencies in Nigeria, he recently just sealed a partnership with the girl power foundation to give aspiring young girls who cannot afford proper training am opportunity to take a step into their pageant journey by training them at no cost. In the nearest future, he hopes to start his own pageant academy, own a pageant franchise and also be the very first Nigerian born Catwalk Instructor to walk the Miss Universe stage.

Zintrise Altovise is a Creative Consultant, Brand & Image Developer, Fashion & Shoe Designer, and the newest member of our Walk Fashion Show family as Director of WalkMarketplace.com. She works diligently with brands and individuals around the country to create strategic plans to enhance and fuel brand awareness and sales. We are happy to say she will work closely with our designers to build their brands and push sales through the website. Besides consulting, Zintrise has created exquisite clothing and shoes that have been featured in fashion shows, events, fashion photography, editorials, and television shows around the world. We were first introduced to her couture brilliance when she debuted one of her collection with Walk during the September New York Fashion Week in 2014.

Since then, we have continued to work with her, promoting her brand at our shows, as she volunteered her time to assist with fashion shows, events, and wherever we needed a helping hand. Right now she is working on a ready to wear line of sustainable fashion for men and women that embrace fashion and human effective through beautiful illustrations of hope that can be re-lived, remembered, and repurposed to someone new, and preparing for her new role with us here at Walk. If you would like to be a part of the Walk Marketplace website, you can reach out to us, submit your information on the website, or reach out to Zintrise directly. You can also purchase some of her Italian-crafted, designer shoes from her "Gold Collection" on walkmarketplace.com as well as her RTW sustainable fashion line which will be featured on the site in the near future.

PRODUCER'S NOTES Crystal Bailey and Daishawn Franklin

"Tough times don't last; tough people do"

Greetings Walk Family, We pray you and your family are safe during this crisis we are experiencing.

We are certainly taking this extremely serious and we know with faith we will all come out of this even stronger than before. We would like to thank everyone that made a submission to our Walk Fashion Show Magazine Challenge and we hope you enjoy our version of Fashion Relief.

Covid-19 may have taken away what we have learned to know as a normal life; however, the Walk Family is extremely resilient and we will not let this virus takeaway our faith, our hard working nature, our dreams and it certainly will not take fashion from us.

Stay tuned as we will announce the updated 2020 Walk Fashion Show Tour Schedule.

WALK MAGAZINE ISSUE 3.5

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FASHION RELIEF ISSUE

WALK MAGAZINE

"THE WORLD IS OUR RUNWAY"

MEET DESIGNERS

Lorenzo Peña &

TONY VISIONS INDEPENDENT MODEL ROLL CALL ISSUE 3.5