OYSTER BAY – Five models from the Oyster Bay Modelling Academy are preparing to take part in the Walk in Elegance Fashion Show in Gqeberha on 6 June, marking the academy’s first appearance in the city.
The event will take place at the Beach Hotel in Summerstrand and will feature a red-carpet experience and fashion show.
According to the academy founder, Jesmine Lodewyk, the group has already secured tickets for the event and is currently busy with fittings ahead of the showcase.
The academy will be represented by five participants between the ages of 10 and 20.
Lodewyk said the young models are both excited and nervous as it will be their first time attending a red-carpet event and fashion show.
“This is already a dream come true because the dream has always been and always will be for my models to explore life, using their God-given talent to be the change and make the change in our community,” said Lodewyk.
She described the opportunity as an important step for the academy and its models, highlighting the challenge of accessing opportunities in small communities.
“I see it as an opportunity to explore, especially coming from a small town like Oyster Bay, where opportunity is scarce,” said Lodewyk.
The event is hosted by Cordious Shelembe, founder of Walk in Elegance Fashion Show, which was established in 2019 to uplift, build and empower local models and designers through fashion showcases held across South Africa and internationally.
Lodewyk said the academy became involved in this year’s event through Juanita Jantjies, owner of Doll Bridal, who introduced her to Shelembe.
She added that the models will also be used to advertise dresses and designs from the business.
While this will be the academy’s first event in Gqeberha, the group previously participated in a modelling event in Humansdorp about three years ago.
Lodewyk believes the experience will help attract more aspiring local models and encourage growth within the modelling industry in Oyster Bay and the broader Kouga area.
“People want to see your organisation grow and not be stuck in one place, so attending this event is going to make an impact because now those interested will see that things are happening within the academy.”
Reflecting on the journey of establishing the academy, she said the opportunity holds deep personal meaning for her.
“It’s a huge honour to be part of this event. I’ve been praying to God to make a way not only for my family and me, but also for my community,” said Lodewyk.
“I’m grabbing this opportunity with both hands, and I don’t take this lightly, especially knowing that this was a dream and vision that God entrusted me with. Here I am, three years later, attending a red-carpet event where the Oyster Bay Modelling Academy will be seen. I am excited.”
