Boys in the Hood

FU spoke to Boys in the Hoods CEO Linda who told us why she decided to start an all male model management company.
“The reason I started my management company is because I wanted to focus on something other then my modelling. Also I was trying to get my brother to model, but he didn't want to have any one but me managing him, so I thought as I’m getting a lot of links myself why don't I just start up my company now, sign my brother and get the ball rolling. Plus my friend is a model and a photographer so that made the decision even easier” -Linda Clare-Noel
Linda decided on the name Boys in the Hood as she thought this best described the look of her models as they’re just like the boy next door .Although they are not the stereotypical pretty boy models they all have a uniqueness which makes them stand out in such a competitive industry.
“My aim is to help models out there who might be a little different or not as commercial as some and to be one of the first male originated urban model management agencies to bring a sexy, street model to the scene.” -Linda-Clare Noel
Because of the many female and mixed model agencies saturating the market, Linda decided to focus on one category and take the male model route to try and open up the male model market and be remembered for doing so. Also as males are a lot more laid back she felt this would make her job easier:
“Like I said in my other interview I like to think outside the box. Plus I work better with men and I believe that it is a lot less stress, lol” -Linda-Clare Noel
CEO Linda stresses that Boys in the Hood, is not like your average company looking to just hire people and make money, they care about their models. Unlike other agencies Boys in the Hoods models are not just one dimensional and CEO Linda is happy to promote their other skills such as rapping, DJ-ing, Writing and Designing:
“I'm looking to expand my knowledge of the business and meet people who are interested in working with me. It is not going to be just one sided, but built into an empire and a family” Linda-Clare Noel

Boys in the Hood
C.E.O Linda-Clare Noel

Co-Manager-Photographer Kelly-Ann Taylor

P.A Sophina Wilson

If you think you have what it take to join Boys in the Hood or if you would like to hire a Boys in the Hood model :

Email: cereece6@hotmail.co.uk

Or go to www.myspace.com/bihnent

Also for photography go to:
www.myspace.com/klevelsphotography

NQ

FU interviewed model and media student NQ who told us how being quirky can work in your favour and why she wants to work with Nickita Martin.

How long have u been modelling for?
I've only been modelling for about 9 months now, and it can be quite difficult, but also rewarding at the end when you see how good your pictures turn out!

Who or what made you want to model?
To be honest at first, modelling was never a profession I could see myself because I didn't believe that I had the complete package that professionals in the industry would require. However, it all began when I decided to take some professional pictures of myself just to have some nice pictures. When my friend's & family commented on how good these pictures where, I decided to see how far I can go with them... and the outcome has been positive. Since then, I had done more photo shoots and gain more confidence with myself.

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in front of the camera (or mirror) posing?
Believe it or not, I used to HATE having my picture taken. I didn't think I was photogenic. It was only when I had done professional shoots that I realised that I had potential to be a great model and that I shouldn't shy myself away.

What’s the best job you've been on?
The best job I have done was taking part at: Adornment 07. I was modelling synthetic hair wigs for a brilliant hair stylist called Angela Plummer. I got to meet the lovely Miss Eryka Badu also...it was a fantastic day!

What's the worst modelling experience you've had?
To date, I haven't had any bad experiences, & I'm gonna make sure that it stays that way!

What do you do when you're not modelling?
I like to just chill & catch up with friend's. I'm a bit of a tomboy, so I might play a bit of the PS2, or sleep! I love my sleep! If I could, I would stay in bed...period! I'm also a full-time uni student studying Media Arts with Professional & Creative Writing. When I do have time, I do creative writing & graphic designing.

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?
I really admire Tyra Banks & Eva Pigford, as well as Iman and Neomie Lenoir. I don't aspire to be, but look up to these models, especially Eva, because she has proven that your height doesn't always have to restrict. There are also some great UK models out here that have been making a big impact in the industry such as Nickita Martin.

What's your best feature?
I'd say it was my eyes, lips and bum!

What type of modelling would you never do?
I can't see myself doing glamour modelling at all. It's just not in me to be that much exposed to the camera & to the rest of the world.

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?
I'm not gonna lie, I'm VERY lazy when it comes to exercise..it's too much effort! However, I'm a big fan of walking & I make sure to walk EVRYWHERE!. Most of the time you get to your destination quicker than taking transport. I also make sure to eat right, not deprive myself, but to have a balanced diet.

Most people don't realise that being a model is a easy job, they don't realize there is a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection. Are you ready for that?
I know what rejection feels like, but at the end of the day, if you are serious about pursuing something, you have to listen to the advice, and work harder to get it. Modelling is a competitive industry & I face rejection sometimes, simply because of my height; but you have to remember that there are other qualities that set you apart from others and make it known to others.

There's loads of girls who want to be the next top model, what makes you so different?
I’m different because I'm quirky, and I just want to have a good time while it lasts. I may be petite in height, but I'm big in personality. A lot of girls think that once they have recognition, then they are instantly famous, and must be acknowledged...I'm humble and down-to-earth, & I make sure that I appreciate every opportunity that I get.

Who would you like to work with in the future?
There are so many talented photographers out there that you won't believe it! I would like to work with JPG Photography, and maybe even with Nickita Martin. If it is the right project, then I'm your girl.

What's next for you?
I hope to continue modelling part-time, but also focus on finishing uni & working in Media. I would love to work in production. I’m also in the process of having my own website set up sometime next year to showcase my design work. I'm just taking it one step at a time.

For more info on NQ go to:

www.myspace.com/nubianqueen86

LisaB

FU interviewed model LisaB who told us about the glamour side of modelling and why Katie Price is such an inspiration to her and how a little encouragement from your loved ones can go a long way.

How long have you been modelling for?

I have been interested in modelling since the age of 16, and by the time I was 19 I had 2 professional portfolios!By this time I had a little baby so it was hard finding the time, but now he's at school I feel I can concentrate on my career more so and start taking further steps within the industry

Who/What made you want to model?

Since I can remember I have loved being in the spotlight....whether its singing, acting and being in front of the camera! Its a real buzz when people praise you and tell you that you have the talent to go far and I truly believe I that I will!All it takes is a little praise and encouragement off those you love to realise that you can achieve anything you want

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in front of the camera (or mirror) posing?

Of course I have, you shouldn't even have to ask hehe!Its part of the job

What’s the best job you’ve been on?

They are all 9/10 fantastically brilliant!

What’s the worst modelling experience you’ve had?

I had a shoot at home with Unix who are in fact an adult porn agency...as I can sometimes be naive I didn't actually read into it and when they arrived it was in fact the man on his own, the lady had stayed in Brighton and he wanted open leg shots...I was furious and I still have not received my pictures BTW I didn't do the open legs

What is it like on set/shoots, there’s a lot of girls, is there any bitchiness?

No I wont put up with that...everyone who knows me, you either get on my good side or you don’t...

What do you do when you’re not modelling?

I’m a mum to my 5 year old little boy Brandon xxx

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?

My idol of all time has got to be Katie Price!I aspire to be everything she is...A beautiful woman, great mum and a fantastic role model xxx

What your best feature?

My eyes and my boobs

What type of modelling would you never do?

Top shelf/porn

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?

I go to the gym

Most people think that being a model is an easy job, they don’t realize that it’s a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection are you ready for that?

Absolutely, you either got it or you don’t

There’s loads of girls who want to be the next top model how do you stand out, obviously your Fabulous and Undiscovered but what makes you so different?

I believe I am naturally gifted and I have the determination and the drive to be successful!I have very prominent features and people do say I remind them of Katie Price or Natasha Beddingfield

Who would you like to work with in the future?

Anyone and everyone who could bring me to the top....I would love to be published in lads mags, but my dream is to become a page 3 beauty

What’s next for you?

I’m gonna be famous he he xxx

For more info on LisaB go to

www.myspace.com/lisab_yummymummy

Sugar Kane

FU interviewed new model Taisha Lorena aka Sugar Kane, who told us why taking pictures is her favorite hobby :-)

How long have you been modelling for?

6Months at most.

Who/What made you want to model? (ie: was you attracted to the money, free clothes, glamorous lifestyle etc)

Its never really being, a life long dream, I Just like, being 'dolled up'. Ive alwayz being a poser.. so taking pics, is my fav hobbie lol.

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in front of the camera (or mirror) posing?

Not really the mirror..but i love to pose for the camera lol.

What’s the best job you’ve been on?

I would say, Beautiful Day-Mike Glc..music vid.. that was a fun day.

What is it like on set/shoots, there’s a lot of girls, is there any bitchiness?

Not so much bitchiness..but a lot of diva's lol.

What do you do when you’re not modelling?

I go to college, work as a partyhost, and a nightclub.

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?

Tyra Banks.

What your best feature?

Most people say, my legs or eyes.

What type of modelling would you never do?

Nude. lol.

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?

I go to the gym, when im not feeling so lazy.

Most people think that being a model is an easy job, they don’t realize that it’s a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection are you ready for that?

I can deal with positive criticism, it can help me to correct things.

There’s loads of girls who want to be the next top model how do you stand out, obviously your Fabulous and Undiscovered but what makes you so different?

Hmm.. well im not a diva..ima humble person, Im just your everyday type of girl. Also I dont really rely on the modelling industry. I intend to go to uni and further my qualifications.

Who would you like to work with in the future?

Maybe some attractive male models

For more info on Sugar Kane go to:

www.myspace.com/r4re_di4mond

Stephanie B. Omotesho

FU interviewed Stephanie who has her mind set on a career in the fashion industry and is working hard to become a successful model and designer. Stephanie told us about her love of Fashion, what inspires her and her plans on going to college to study fashion design.

How long have you been modelling for?
Well I have only just started into the industry.

Who/What made you want to model? (ie: was you attracted to the money, free clothes, glamorous lifestyle etc)?
Um...I’d have to say I just love fashion. Modelling to me is a way of expressing clothes. As a model you get to wear the outrageous clothes that designers make only for the runway shows. Also models are also usually inspirations to others such as younger girls who aspire to be models. I would love to be an inspiration to anyone.

What do you do when you’re not modelling?
I like to design clothes. I have been designing for about a year under the label B.Destiny. I’ve always had a love for clothes and fashion. I saw a dress that I really liked and I drew it and customised so it would look perfect on me and I’ve been designing ever since. I’d love to dress Beyonce, because she’s such a major style icon.

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?
Well I don’t have a favourite model, but Tyra Banks has definitely had impact on me. Also Emily Rose who has helped me into the industry by giving me advice and help.

What your best feature?
My smile.

What type of modelling would you never do?
Nude, topless or other types of unnecessary exposure

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?
I am in the gym. Gym. Gym. Gym. I’m still working on my body though. I try and eat correctly and drink lots of water!!!!

Do you think it’s harder for black models to get jobs over here (in the UK) than it is in America, Why do you think this is?
I’d say that the approach that agencies have towards black models [in the US] is very different to the ones in the UK.

Most people think that being a model is an easy job, they don’t realize that it’s a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection are you ready for that? I am going through that at the moment. I’ve been to a lot of castings and agencies and have heard nothing. But I am not giving up! No way!

Who would you like to work with in the future?
I’d love to work with a major model agency or be a Rocawear model and do an international cosmetic advert.

What’s next for you?
I hope something stable and will get me started into the industry properly and I hope to find a way to start making and selling my designs. As well as this I plan on going to college to study fashion design.

For more info on Stephanie/Destiny.B go to

www.myspace.com/destinyskid1

Fame Family Di Getto Definition

FAME FAMILY (Di Ghetto Definition) is a dancehall group formed in late 2005. Originally started as a 4 piece in Kingston Jamaica, Horatio Rankine, Advance (Deejay), Tyzane (Deejay) and Popz the singer have been steadily gaining recognition in Toronto since 2006.
The term “Di Ghetto Definition” was created because the group members hail from Papine, Standpipe, WaterHouse, and Waterford (Jamaica) and also because they’re a product of the Ghetto Fame Family, a dancehall group.

After recording their first demo with Nitro Da CD Sound in Summer 06 and distributing it in the Jane and Finch community (Canada), Fame Family created a buzz through tracks like “Dat mi a seh” and “Hand to Mouth’
After singer Popz left to focus on a soccer career, the group doubled their efforts, dedicating themselves to their work and perfecting their sound. This has not only led to underground success with tracks such as “Plan fi Mek Money” “Wheel Off” and “Call Away” but Fame Family were also featured in an issue of YOUR WORD magazine in Canada. In such a short amount of time Fame Family have already opened shows for some big names in the dancehall arena including Beenie Man, Luciano, Delly Ranks, Lexxus, and Sultex 3000 and worked with a variety of artists producers and promoters including Mystic Sound, Rebel Production, D’nme, Bizmo and even Hype Radio in New York.
Their new single “Ez man a Ez” was recorded with Selecta/Producer Rebel Tone on his new “SLR” riddim and will be featured on Rebel Tone’s upcoming Mix CD. They are also recording a single on the ‘Dirty Harry’ Riddim.
From the slums of Kingston to the city of Toronto, Fame Family have come a long way and with their catchy phrases distinctive lyrics and vibrant performances soon everyone will know about Fame Family (Di Ghetto Definition)

For more info on Fame Family go to:

http://www.myspace.com/famefamily

Ms Sexy but Classy

FU interviewed Danielle aka Ms Sexy but Classy who told us about her forthcoming Calender and why she admires Jordan and Melyssa Ford

How long have you been modelling for?
About a year and a half

Who/What made you want to model?

I felt I had the image for modelling, people have always said I should model. I decided to go for it because I knew I'd enjoy it. You get to meet new people and taking interesting pictures in different locations. I've always wanted to work within the media and entertainment industry.

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in frount of the camera (or mirror) posing?
I love posing and messing about at home, but in public I'm quite reserved, but I warm up when the camera starts clicking!

What is it like on set/shoots, there’s a lot of girls, is there any bitchiness?
Yes there's bitchiness sometimes, but never to my face!

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?
I like the fact that Jordan and Melyssa Ford have turned themselves into their own unique brands. They've been able to branch off into other fields and become pioneers within the media and entertainment industry. They've also been able to keep the work coming in and adapt with the times.

Whats your best feature?
It's a draw between my eyes and my bum!

What type of modelling would you never do?
Nude or topless.

Obviously models have to have a tight body, what do you do to keep in shape?
By chance, I do alot of walking. The odd sit up now and then, but I really should start going to the gym regularly.


Most people think that being a model is an easy job, they don’t realize that it’s a lot of hard work and new models face a lot of criticism and rejection are you ready for that?
If I wasn't I would have packed it in already lol! I've dealt with a lot of bull since the start and being in the UK trying to get somewhere in the sexy/glamour side of modelling is very exhausting, but only I know and care about what I am capable of.

There’s loads of girls who want to be the next top model how do you stand out, obviously you're Fabulous and Undiscovered but what makes you so different?
I am hard working, friendly and I have a look that is adaptable.

Who would you like to work with in the future?
Major magazines like King, Smooth mag.

What’s next for you?
I'm supposed to be working on a calendar and new project later on in the year, so watch this space!

For more info on Ms Sexy but Classy go to:

www.daniellemilleronline.com

www.myspace.com/danielleonline

KURFUU

Horatio Rankine and his clothing line KURFUU is the new brand name to hit the streets. KURFUU, which is pronounced Curfew and stands for Knowledge-Unity-Respect-Freedom-Univesally-Undisputed was created by this young man at the tender age of 17.
Originally from Papine, St.Andrews, Jamaica Horatio now resides in Toronto, Canada, where his label began by making embroidered hats and t’shirts, which he sold in the streets. After selling a thousand items and receiving positive feedback from businesses and customers in Toronto and its surrounding cities Horatio felt confident in the label name and his creations.
The product KURFUU is aimed at an urban market this is
"Because of my raw designs simply because I want my customers to be able to relate to my products, rather then just buying into a brand name they know nothing about or have nothing in common with."- Horatio Rankine.
KURFUU’s official launch will be held in his hometown of St. Andrews, Jamaica The clothing line will carry a range of products, such as Mens and Womens clothing along with lingerie and accessories. Currently Horatio is working on photo-shoots for a wide range of merchandise, which will be uploaded onto his myspace page where people can view and make comments on his designs.
Horatio Rankine is a young man with a bright future ahead of him. Describing his brand as:
"A brand, which is innovative in exclusive designs, production and marketing, a brand, which is seen as expert, trustworthy, likeable and also a brand that communicates with a consistent and clear voice."-Horatio Rankine
A force to be reckoned with, Horatio Rankine and his clothing line KURFUU will definitely take urban wear to the next level.

For more on KURFUU and Horatio Rankine go to:

http://www.myspace.com/kurfuuclothing

Phophoto- It's you.. In Cartoon

If you haven’t yet heard of Phophoto you will definitely be hearing about them a lot in the future. Phophoto is a company that transforms your photo into personalized digital art by doing Vector Portraits and also Manga Caricatures. Vector graphics are extremely popular and widely used in graphic design, art, movies and many other forms of multi-media. Phophoto’s unique style amplifies characteristic details with clean sharp lines and colours but it’s not a caricature. Manga is Japanese style comics and cartoons that have been around for almost two centuries and although every portrait Phophoto do is unique typically their Manga Caricatures will be drawn to exaggerate and distort the subjects features in very specific ways. The hair will usually be brightly coloured and pointed and the eyes with be disproportionately big with a small discreet nose and mouth. Every portrait is digitally drawn by hand and inked by an experienced graphic artist. It is digital yet organic.

Nathan Muntner built, maintains and does all the art work for Phophoto:

Tell us a bit about yourself and what made you want to start Phophoto?
Me and my company are out of the innovative yet small town of Boulder, Colorado USA. I have always loved art and photography. Digital photography and software such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and Painter opened up a whole new world to me, and enabled me to express myself in new and exciting ways.
I do free-lance graphic and web design work but my main passion right now is that I love to draw digitally and love to draw people.


What are your main inspirations?
I would say my biggest inspirations for doing Vector Art was the movie A Scanner Darkly, and my inspiration for my Manga Caricatures stems from my love of Jap Anime.


What do you do when you’re not doing portraits?
When I am not indulging in my photography and art I am mountain biking in the summer and snowboarding in the winter (it's why I love Colorado)


Phophoto is a very distinctive company and with every order from Phophoto you get a PDF, a large and small JPEG, and a PC and Mac icon file, and unlike other companies, there is no water mark therefore you can have any text/logos you want printed on your portrait. So If you want something a little exclusive and fun to add to your myspace profile, business cards or even your portfolio then Phophoto are the best people to help you. (FU has already requested a portrait, So look out for that on the site)

For more info on Phophoto including prices etc go to:

http://www.phophoto.com/

http://www.myspace.com/phototoavatar

Sasha Rae

After being asked to model for the front cover of a local magazine Sasha Bennett aka Sasha Rae decided to get some new pictures done and with a little persuasion from friends and family she began pursuing modelling on the side and hasn’t looked back since.
This hardworking young lady is not only on her way to becoming a successful model, she is also at Greenwich University studying towards a BA honours combined degree in English and Drama, She works weekends as a Librarian and is the gossip and entertainment features writer for her local magazine Southwark Young People's Magazine Project-which has run for 5 years. In addition to this Sasha Rae is a keen actress,
“I have a immense love for all things theatrical and drama based” - Sasha Rae
It was her love of drama and writing which promoted her to do a combined honours degree so that she could pursue both of her passions simultaneously. It also encouraged her to join up with her old drama teacher and ex students to form a drama company called -In Translation. They have already received rave reviews for their performance of DNA and are now filming a documentary which Sasha Rae is excited about.
Although Sasha Rae admits it has been hard to find the right representation she still remains optimistic and tries to keep her face out there by entering competitions such as the face of the Urban Music Magazine-Touch, where she placed in the top 3. She has also been honing her catwalk skills by doing fashion shows for designers House of Georgie and Danielle Raffa. In addition to this Sasha Rae is receiving positive feedback via her Myspace page and feels that it’s only a matter of time before she gets the right team of people to manage her.

What makes you so unique
It might sound cliché, but what I feel makes me considerably unique is a combination of 3 vital components:
1: I am educated and continue to educate myself, away from University I am also using the time off university to train as a Gym and exercise teacher. I live and breath education and I believe that an educated mind will eventually take you places.
2: I have very unique features. All my life I have been given comments about my nose and its pronounced shape. It is very pronounced and many have believed that my nose is not real, but I can assure you, it was the nose I was born with. I have a very unique and defined face and no one looks like me and vice versa- I look like no one either.
3: There are many strings to my bow. I want to construct a career that is not only double edged but triple edged!. I want to act, model and be teach exercise in between. I am my own upcoming business enterprise.

Who I would like to work with in the future
The goals I have created for myself are endless. I hope to act in some more amazing plays, get a showreel done of my work. I would love to model in hair shows or in my favourite magazine, Pride. I would love to star in a few short films and music videos, to model lingerie and bikini's as I look really good in a bikini!! On a serious note, I would like to work with people who can see my potential and want to work with me to create something amazing. Being in a magazine, modelling sleek makeup or being in a advert are all things I would like to do, and it would be a dream to work with people who could make that happen. I’ve just entered a bikini competition run by a company called Toby Girl and I’m waiting to see where that will take me.

For more info on Sasha Rae go to:

http://www.myspace.com/_sashaben