Graduate in style

New faces are launched into the world of modelling at Life Model's graduation. Notes speaks to them

Twenty one aspiring models walked down the catwalk recently to celebrate their graduation from a six-week modelling course at Life Model.

As an audience comprising make-up artists, hair stylists and representatives of fashion houses looked on, the girls impressed with their poise and confidence.

The show started late, giving Notes ample time to go backstage and meet some of the girls. Despite their carefully applied make-up, their youth shone through.

Most of them are still studying, juggling their study schedules to attend the modelling course after school and during weekends.

Isadora, 17, Tonette, 15, Bianca, 17, and Lotte, 15, unabashedly admitted to being nervous despite having modelled in the past. But the maturity with which they spoke was admirable.

Modelling is not as easy as it might seem, said Tonette. "Self-discipline is vital."

Alessandra Cardoso, better known as Alex, a founder of Life Model and a former model herself, said that some of her students had already received modelling offers even before they completed the course.

The institute helps secure employment for students, making it easier for them to enter the field.

Besides training the students to become professional models, Life Model also offers them a continued business presence in Dubai and GCC countries by associating with OOH! Fashion Services, a provider of fashion talent in the area.

Also present at the fashion show was Zoe Erwin, a member of L'Oreal Professionnel's international team. Erwin demonstrated some new and innovative trends that the brand is promoting.

The school

Clare Venn and Alessandra Cardoso started Life Model in 2003. Different programmes are conducted every month.

The institute offers dedicated and comprehensive education suited for the modelling industry as well as a full range of courses in style and etiquette that can be tailored to suit the requirements of small groups.

The workshops therefore also benefits those who are just interested in personal grooming.

The standard courses run for six weeks and are conducted in groups of up to 15. All participants get a portfolio done and participate in the graduation ceremony.

Workshop courses

• Life Model Workshop
  The six-week workshop covers the basics of becoming a model (confidence, independence, professionalism, organisation, stamina and will power), the right attitude, personal care, cosmetic fundamentals, photography and choreography
  
• Total Image Profile Workshop
  This workshop integrates style and body line consultation with a complete colour analysis and cosmetic consultation that includes a makeover. This means maximising your best features and minimising the less flattering ones.
  
  It also includes finding the right shapes and proportions for your figure and the right style that will fit your personality, lifestyle and budget.
  
  It also aims at developing one's confidence, independence, professionalism, etiquette, visual poise and posture.
  
  The workshop also covers cosmetic fundamentals, facial analysis, make-up techniques and colour theories.
  
• Corporate Workshops
  The aim here is to improve one's professional etiquette and presentation. The workshops help to polish one's manners that guarantee approval and acceptance.
  
• Teens and Kids workshop
  This is an entertaining and educational programme in manners, poise and style that empowers children and teenagers to achieve their maximum potential by building confidence in their social skills.

Contact details

• Building 8, Dubai Knowledge Village
  P.O. Box 500708, Dubai
• mail@life-model.com

Tip from a former model
Alessandra Cardoso, founder of Life Model and a former international model, says, "Beauty is something that comes from inside".

A positive image is a vital ingredient to your levels of confidence, self-esteem and to your success in general. Whoever you are and whatever you do, look the part and you are more likely to act the part.

Feeling good about the way you look will more likely radiate with the way you carry yourself. Remember you are your own walking advertisement.