The Water Ball 2023

The Water Ball 2023

by | Oct 30, 2023 | Event, Non-profit

Video by Roy Negrosa, Interview by Kenxis Jimenez

On a rainy day in September I had the privilege to attend the Annual Water Ball that was held on Friday, September 29th, 2023 at THE SECOND on 849 6th Ave. The Water Ball, formerly known as Burkina Faso Water Day Gala, is a charitable event with the mission to raise funds for clean water. It was an amazing experience which was for a good cause. There was an auction with many items for sale, but one that caught my eye was artwork of Caroline Herrera by Bradley Theodore. There was also entertainment such as singing, and a fashion show with designs by Georgie for her brand Liberty & Justice.

Photography by Roy Negrosa and Ryan Azia

The Water Ball was founded by Georgie ”The Water Princess” who was born in the Ivory Coast. Georgie spent a lot of her childhood in the village of Koffikro, where she used to wake up every morning at 6 AM to fetch water with her grandmother and female cousins. This activity which is a necessity and a part of life adding to the fact that the country has a hard time getting fresh water, led to the start of the Georgie Badiel Foundation and the annual event, The Water Ball.

The goal of the Water Ball is to bring awareness to The Georgie Badiel Foundation. A charitable organization which aims to provide clean water and sanitation to the people of Burkina Faso by building and restoring wells, providing technical training in well operation and maintenance, and creating educational programs for sanitary and hygiene practice. Over 54% of the rural population in Burkina Faso does not have access to clean drinking water. Their mission is to change that.

To learn more about the foundation you can check out the website: https://www.georgiebadielfoundation.org/

 

Improve Your Chances of Success In The Modeling Industry

Improve Your Chances of Success In The Modeling Industry

by | Apr 22, 2023 | Educational, How To

If you want to be a model, you might be wondering how to get started in the profession. While there is no one-size-fits-all path to success, there are certain actions you can take to improve your chances of earning modeling jobs and establishing a successful career.

A modeling course, such as Dash Modeling 101, is one option for aspiring models to consider. This course has been specifically developed to bridge the gap between modeling education and the modeling industry. It gives prospective models the training, portfolio building opportunities, and networking sessions they need to get in front of big modeling agencies.

One of the advantages of taking Dash Modeling 101 is that students’ portfolios are presented for placement to major modeling agencies nationally. This is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring models hoping to break into the industry and get noticed by prominent modeling agencies.

It is crucial to highlight, however, that the training is not the only method to become a successful model. Attending castings, establishing a solid portfolio through partnerships with photographers and other creatives, networking with industry leaders, and remaining persistent in your pursuit of a modeling career are some other options.

Dash Talents' model Grace MacNeil on the cover of Bazaar

Whatever path you follow, there are a few crucial actions you can do to improve your chances of success in the modeling industry:

1. Understand your market: Investigate the modeling industry to learn about the various types of modeling and the opportunities that are available. This will allow you to tailor your portfolio and approach to the tasks you want to book.

2. Create a strong portfolio: Work with fashion photographers who specialize in capturing your distinct look and personality. This will allow you to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your versatility as a model.

3. Maintain your physical and mental health: Models are expected to look their best at all times, so taking care of your body and preserving your physical and mental health is essential. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest to be at your best for auditions and shoots.

4. Be professional: The modeling market is extremely competitive, therefore it’s critical to handle it professionally. This includes being on time for castings and shots, treating everyone with respect, and taking your career seriously.

5. Networking entails attending business events, reaching out to industry leaders, and making connections that will help you progress your career. Don’t be reluctant to ask experienced models, agents, or photographers for help or critique.

To summarize, there are various routes you may take to become a successful model, and enrolling in a modeling course like Dash Modeling 101 can be a wonderful method to obtain the essential abilities and connections to get recognized by major agencies. Regardless of the path you take, hard effort, dedication, and a willingness to learn and improve are required to thrive in the modeling industry.

Dahlia Design with a Touch of Glam

Dahlia Design with a Touch of Glam

by | Mar 9, 2023 | Interviews

Video by Noel Calubaquib, interview and article by Yelena Scheidler 

Dash Talents was honored to step into the beautiful home of Dahlia Mahmood of Dahlia Design LLC, who is one of the top influential interior designers and builders in the WORLD.  Creating dream homes, palaces, and even museums for celebrities, pro athletes, royalty, and more, Dahlia has accumulated a number of national and international awards for her unmatched work and ethic.  While adding a touch of glam to everything around her, she brings a lot of heart too.  And it is Dahlia’s heart that sets her far apart.

Yelena Scheidler sat down with Dahlia for a heart to heart interview.  To witness such success  unfold, we couldn’t help but wish to learn where this talent began, and what continues to be the driving force behind each masterpiece Dahlia and her team create.  This is an exceptional inspirational story that every adult and child should hear.

Born in sunny California, Dahlia was inspired by her regular trips to Disney World, paying attention to all the beautiful details and the magical environments that Walt Disney created. At the age 5, Dahlia recognized her passion for interior design, and her world changed.  “Mom, be prepared, I’m going to be a famous interior designer” she said.  Being the first generation born in the United States to a family of royal ancestry, who came from Iraq to pursue higher education, childhood was not a walk in the park.  She had to learn early on in life to be independent and work hard for her dreams.  Strong women were her driving force.

With determination to succeed, Dahlia launched Dahlia Design at age 17. Her first celebrity client was Chris Tucker, who then introduced her to many other celebrity friends, such as Michael Jackson. Soon Dahlia began working with royalty and other powerful clients.

 

Portrait by Noel Calubaquib, makeup by Yelena Scheidler 

Dahlia posed next to Domenico Camniti, president of iDOGI as she won the prestigious international iDOGI award among thousands of interior designer applicants, making her the most influential designer in the world.

 

Caron Butler, NBA champion and assistant coach of Miami Heat, is Dahlia’s long time client of 6 home masterpiece projects.

 

Dahlia has worked on some of the most visible projects under the greatest of pressure, such as designing Saudi King Abdullah’s Cultural Hall and Museum in Northern Virginia.  What an accomplishment to be chosen out of so many designers, an American-born Iraqi woman, to capture the king’s legacy before his death.  At the same time, her passion are God’s children, and she has created some of the most magical bedrooms and nurseries in the world.

After speaking with Dahlia Mahmood, we are certain that she will make history, already has.  There is no doubt.  All her life, she was told that her dreams were not valid, based on her last name.  But with hard work, determination, and respect, Dahlia far surpassed all expectations, and now she wants to empower other Arab-American women like her to follow their vision, to believe in themselves, and to not give up.  She was faced with the deepest of challenges, and yet here she is.  Please visit dahliadesign.net and @dahliadesignllc on Instagram for further inspiration.

RVA Fashion Week Model Casting

RVA Fashion Week Model Casting

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Interviews, RVAFW

Video by Noel Calubaquib, Interview by Yelena Scheidler

Richmond, Virginia is a hub for fashion and beauty, and the city’s Fashion Week is a highly anticipated event in the industry. Models come to Richmond to showcase their talent and walk the runway for some of the most hip designers.

Recently, Dash Talents conducted interviews with both new and established models to get a sense of their thoughts and feelings about the upcoming RVAFW casting calls. The models expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about the process, but they all agreed on one thing: this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and they were dedicated to show the judges their skills.

 

Video and photography by Noel Calubaquib

The castings are a long process, and the models must be at their best in terms of physical appearance, poise, and confidence. The casting panel was looking for models with unique looks, strong walking skills, and the ability to showcase the clothing in the best possible light. The RVAFW Casting panel included agencies and scouts including Noel Calubaquib, RoRo Yone, and Yelena Scheidler of Dash Talents,   Misty James of James Talent Group, Kim Alley, Chelsea and Kenny Cushing of AF Talent Management.  The key decision makers included Executive Directors Ryan Azia and Chanel Nelson, Model Coach Brickell French, and Logistics Director Kristin Dukes.

For new models, the castings are a chance to make a first impression and secure a spot in one of the most sought-after fashion events in the country. It is a nerve-wracking experience, but it is also a chance for them to showcase their talent and prove themselves to the industry.

Existing models, on the other hand, have the advantage of experience, but they also face the pressure of maintaining their reputation and securing future work. They know that their performance at the castings will directly impact their careers, and they are determined to put their best foot forward.

In conclusion, the RVAFW castings are a crucial event for both new and established models in Richmond, Virginia. They represent a unique opportunity to showcase their talent and make a name for themselves in the industry. The models are eager and determined to give their best performance and leave a lasting impression on the casting panel.

Visit www.rvafw.com

Attending Miss Universe: A First-Timer’s Experience

Attending Miss Universe: A First-Timer’s Experience

by | Jan 22, 2023 | Interviews, Miss Universe

Video by Noel Calubaquib, Interview by Yelena Scheidler

Being a big part of the fashion and beauty industry, attending the Miss Universe pageant has always been on our bucket list. So, when Jojo Bragais, the Miss Universe  sponsor and designer of the official Miss Universe shoes, extended an invitation to Dash Talents to the 71st edition of the pageant in New Orleans, we knew we had to be there. 

We arrived in New Orleans a few days before the pageant finals, giving us enough time to explore the city and take in all the culture and history it had to offer. From the delicious Creole cuisine to the lively jazz music and colorful architecture, New Orleans did not disappoint. 

 

During the show, it was an honor to interview the famous shoe designer and Miss Universe sponsor Jojo Bragais and the International Pageant Coach Jan Quijano.  Jojo created the shoes that all queens wore on stage while Jan taught many queens how to properly walk in them.  What a combo!

The highlight of our trip was, of course, the Miss Universe pageant. As we walked into the New Orleans Convention Center on January 15, we were immediately struck by the energy and excitement in the air.  There were fans and supporters from all over the world.  The stage was set up with all its glitz and glam, and the contestants were all dressed in sparkly dresses, ready to compete. 

To match the ambiance, Dash Talents Team: Noel Calubaquib, Yelena Scheidler, and RoRo Yone arrived looking sharp in custom suits by Aurelius Suits and ethereal gown by raMona Designs.  

Jojo Bragais display of the official Miss Universe shoes caught our attention as soon as we walked in.  The variety of the hand-made shoe styles were elegantly arranged on top of decorative columns.  Luckily Yelena Scheidler already had a gold pair on to match her gold gown.

As the pageant began, we were blown away by the level of talent and beauty on display. The contestants from all around the world had brought their A-game, showcasing their stunning evening gowns, intricate national costumes, and impressive personalities. Hosts Jeanie Mai Jenkins and Olivia Culpo shortly announced the top 16.  These beauties were:

Miss Puerto Rico Ashley Carino; Miss Haiti Madeline Phelizor; Miss Australia Monique Riley; Miss Dominican Republic Andreina Martinez; Miss Laos Payengxa Lor; Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri; Miss Portugal Telma Madeira; Miss Canada Amelia Tu; Miss Peru Alesia Rovegno Cay; Miss Trinidad Tya Jane Ramney; Miss India Divita Rai; Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel Newmen; Miss Spain Alicia Faubel; Miss Curaçao Gabriela Dos Santos; Miss USA R’Bonney Gabriel; Miss Colombia Maria Fernanda Aristzabal

The swimsuit and evening gown rounds were our personal favorites, where the ladies showcased their physiques and poise gracefully.

But what impressed us the most was how the contestants carried themselves off-stage. They were all intelligent, articulate and well-informed, they answered questions on various subjects with poise and confidence.

Following swimsuit and gown rounds, the number of queens in the running went down to 5; including: Venezuela, USA, Curaçao, Puerto Rico, and Dominican Republic.  Based on their answers to judges’ questions, the list became even smaller including Venezuela, USA, and Dominican Republic.

At the end of 2022, Miss Universe, once owned by Donald Trump, followed by IMG, was bought by Jakapong Jakrajutatip.  She addressed the audience during the pageant making a strong message about giving women the real power. She is a big proponent of social equality and humanity.

We thoroughly enjoyed the performances by Tank and the Bangas – a Grammy-nominated music group from New Orleans; and Amanda Shaw – a fiddler, singer, songwriter, producer, and actress also native to Louisiana.

The show was taken to the ultimate next level when the legendary Yolanda Adams graced the stage singing “I’m Every Woman”. Her voice, and presence were her greatest gifts.

Even within the greatest of beauty, there can be significant pain.  Pain does not discriminate.  We were reminded of this as Cheslie Kryst‘s mother April Simpkins’ bravely stood on stage to talk about Miss USA 2019’s battle with depression which lead to the saddest of moments in the pageant history – her death.  Since that day Cheslie Kryst Women’s Advancement Fund has been established, continuing her legacy of empowering, advancing and supporting women through their employment journey.

Fans, supporters, and family traveled from all over the world to take part in the historic day.

In the end, it was Miss USA, R’Bonney Gabriel, who was crowned Miss Universe 2022. R’Bonney Gabriel a 28-year-old fashion designer, was a definite standout from the start of the competition and her victory was met with cheers and applause from the crowd.  She lives by ‘If not now then when’ and we feel that.

As the pageant came to a close and the contestants took their final walk, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and inspiration. The Miss Universe pageant is not just about beauty, it’s about empowering women to be confident, ambitious, and to strive for their goals.

Attending Miss Universe 2023 in New Orleans was a dream come true, and we look forward to taking part in the next year’s event in El Salvador.