Several young men and women have been shortlisted as the quest for Guyana’s Next Top Model kicks off.
The models were on Saturday evening introduced to the media at the special launch party held at the Millennium Manor Hotel on Hadfield Street, Georgetown. The delegates were selected after auditions were done in Berbice, Demerara and Georgetown.
The next step, however, is an audition to be held in Bartica which will see the selection of at least another five persons being added to the contestants’ list. The contestants will make a number of public appearances aimed at boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
The initiative is being promoted by private businesswomen, who think that this is an excellent event to stimulate the interest of the young people to get them involved in fashion and modelling.
The next top model will be crowned after the contestants would have gone through rigorous routines in the form of fashion, designing and other events. This will take the shape of a reality show. As in any reality show, there will be eliminations as the event comes to a climax.
The organisers, Yonette Bacchus and June Ann Ross are optimistic that the event will be one with a difference and will see the winner walking away with at least $1million in cash and prizes. The winners will also each gain a one-year contract with the Millennium Manor Hotel that will see them becoming spokespersons for the entity and engaging in commercial and other opportunities.
Since 2008, Guyana top models have emerged from Guyana’s Model Search which is an annual feature at the Guyana Fashion Week organised by Sonia Noel.
However, Sonia Noel is not a part of the Guyana’s Next Top Model initiative, but is willing to offer any guidance if called upon. However, she stated that she will continue to focus her attention of her brand, Guyana Model Search.
Sonia Noel is presently in Barbados where the Annual Barbados Music Awards are held. She will be an honoured guest as she is bestowed with a life achievement award in fashion.