Models head for Margate

A BEVY of models from the Durban area is heading to Margate to take part in one of the popular model camps run by successful international model Neetasha Singh.

The camp, designed for both aspiring and experienced models, starts in Margate on January 19. For some less privileged girls who Neetasha has invited to take part, it will be an amazing window of opportunity.

Neetasha relates well to young women from less privileged homes as she, too, comes from a humble background. Born and raised in Phoenix, she grew up surrounded by families affected by poverty and drug abuse. However, she has mastered the art of creating her own opportunities.

“For the privilege and honour of changing young women’s lives, I open my model camp doors to the less privileged. In this way I educate young women, not only about the fashion and modelling industry, but also about personal appearance, self-worth, confidence and how to create their own opportunities,” she said.

Neetasha was second runner-up in the very first pageant she ever took part in, the Miss Teen India SA pageant when she was 12 years old. Since then she has travelled across 29 countries, has modelled for Africa Fashion Week London, Malawi Fashion Week and SA Fashion Week and has been featured in international magazines like Model View, Vogue India, Deb India and Lipstick Red.

Over the years she has modelled designs by Vikram Phandis, Swapnil Shinde, Dax Martin, Done Couture, Varun Bhla, Mr Price and many other fashion houses. Her career includes several years’ experience in ramp modelling, advertisement shoots, editorial, glamour, lingerie and swimwear and she is the brand ambassador for Done Couture, and Hair and Beauty Unlimited.

“I have recently completed a modelling contract in India where I had the privilege of meeting and networking with Bipasha Basu, Veena Malik and Taz Singh, to name a few,” she said.

But Neetasha is much more than a pretty face. As successful as her modelling career has been she has notched up many other accomplishments. She is a qualified accountant by profession, has a degree in taxation, and is currently completing an honours degree.

“It’s a very weird combination, I suppose. I was also awarded the Sir Abe Bailey Scholarship to the United Kingdom in 2010, based on my academic achievement and leadership qualities. There I represented South Africa in Parliament, discussing South African issues and finding opportunities through diversity. As the only model to have ever been awarded this travel scholarship I regard it as one of my most valued achievements as it breaks barriers and stereotypes,” she said.

She has acted in three local movies, ‘Bombay Duck’,’Tokolosh’ and ’31 Million Reasons’ and has recently been in Cape Town, shooting an American movie, ‘Dominion’. Neetasha was also one of the top 20 finalists in the Eastern Mosaic presenter search in 2012.

The Margate workshops that make up her camp programme are designed to develop skills in front of the camera and on a ramp.

“New models are often sent blindly into test shoots, castings and bookings without any proper training or direction. These workshops build confidence and develop range and versatility that will elevate the level of photos produced and broaden ramp modelling expertise.

“We will also educate participants about industry standards and practices. Rather than being forced to learn slowly through trial and error, they will be prepared to avoid missed opportunities and costly mistakes,” she said.

Her workshops are open to anyone who is truly passionate about fashion.