Candy

Born in Spain of Portuguese, Brazilian and Angolan descent Candy is a model, actress and dancer hailing from west London.
Currently in college studying a National Diploma in Performing Arts, she also used to be a cheerleader for the Royal Angels where she studied street dancing.
Not only is she a street dance enthusiast, Candy also enjoys different genres of dance including ballet and contemporary.
"I just enjoy performing and have a great passion for it." -Candy
Citing Halle Berry, Julia Roberts and Marlon Wayans as her favourite actors Candy is aiming to be a triple threat in the entertainment industry.
"My dream role is to be a very successful and a world known model, actress and dancer." -Candy
This positive young lady who puts 100% into everything she does has the determination to succeed in all she does.

For more info on Candy go to:

www.myspace.com/candzakasweets

We Exist!! Why? Elizabeth Young

Elizabeth Young born number 8 in a family of 10 has definitely accomplished a lot. Born in Birmingham, England but raised in Hanover, Jamaica this talented musician and published author is ready to take the world by storm.
Young who plays the saxophone and writes her own songs is definitely someone in charge of her own destiny.
Inspired by artists such as Gladys Knight and Elvis to Motorhead Elizabeth continues to strive to reach her goal of becoming a singer without having to compromise who she is:
"Striving to become a big fish in a big pond."-Elizabeth Young
Elizabeth has already started along that path having had her book "Why We Exist" published. The book, which focuses on finding your life’s purpose, is available worldwide online.
This 5ft tall fitness enthusiast is also working on a facial fitness DVD and may also star in a reality TV programme about super fit super slim people.
A wealth of talent, strength and determination Elizabeth Young is definitely one to watch in the future as:

"Where she is now is where she has chosen to be."-Elizabeth Young

For more info on Elizabeth go to:

www.myspace.com/weexistwhy

Alexia

FU interviewed model Alexia who told us how carrying your camera with you on girly nights out can help you with your photoshoots.

How long have you been modelling for?
I’m a baby to this industry! I’ve been modelling for 4 months now and loving every minute of it

Who/What made you want to model?
I think secretly I’ve always wanted to be a model, but I’ve always had doubts about whether or not I could do it. Firstly I’m only 5’6 so I’m just below the standard height for a model which I thought would cause a lot of problems, but It didn’t so I’m glad I started. I was approached on Myspace by an agency who asked me to do a test shoot for them and I haven’t looked back since!

Have you always been one of those people who just loves to be in front of the camera (or mirror) posing?
Definitely! I’m the ultimate poser among my friends! I take a camera with me absolutely every time I go for nights out, which strengthens my poses when I do a real shoot.

What’s the best job you’ve been on?
The Kojo’s Angel’s calendar! Firstly because it’s for an amazing charity called the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust who aims to increase the number of Black and mixed race people on the UK bone marrow register. Secondly because I worked with a lovely young comedian called Babatunde who made the shoot really fun.

What’s the worst modelling experience you’ve had?
To be honest I’ve been really lucky with bad experiences. I suppose I could say a fashion show I did which required me to wear lingerie. I had to walk down the runway with my bum cheeks out!

What is it like on set/shoots, there’s a lot of girls, is there any bitchiness?
I love the buzz on a photo shoot! It’s exciting watching the other girls working. But yes there is bitching but to be honest there is always going to be bitching around a group of girls. I think if you carry yourself well and go and do the job you’re required to do then no one can fault you.

What do you do when you’re not modelling?
When I’m not modelling I’m a student studying English and Creative Writing at University. My education is extremely important to me so I make sure I’ve always got space in my schedule to balance my time between the two.

Who is your favourite model, do you aspire to be like any model in particular?
Tyra Banks. She’s a good role model to young black women and she always holds herself extremely well.

What your best feature?

Probably my abs- I’m lucky enough to have a really flat tummy!

What type of modelling would you never do?

Anything explicitly crude.

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

I’ve pretty much danced my whole life so I think I shaped my body from an active childhood rather than hitting the gym. I just make sure I eat healthily, follow a good skin care regime and exercise 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?
I’m very confident in my craft so can take almost all that’s thrown at me! I think you just need to remember that just because you weren’t right for one job doesn’t mean you’re not right for another. Rejection is always going to be there, its how you deal with it that counts.

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?

My work ethic! I put 100% into anything I do. I think with determination and hard work you can get to anywhere you want to.

Who would you like to work with in the future?
I’d love to do an urban campaign such as Baby Phat or Roca Wear. I’d also like to move into television work and do some presenting.

What’s next for you?

Well I’ve got the launch of the Kojo’s Angels calendar and I’m doing my music first video next month so all exciting stuff.

For more info on Alexia go to:

www.myspace.com/alexia_online

Deja

FU interviewed new model Deja who told us about her Lynx advert and her plans on going to America to persue her modelling.

How long have you been modelling for?

Well I’d say a couple of months..I'm a newbie :)

Who/What made you want to model?

I think what made me want to model was the fact that it had always been a secret aspiration, that I decided yes this is something that I really want to do with my life.

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

I’m always taking pictures of myself with my phone, but when I am in front of the camera (bearing in mind I’m shooting with a photographer I feel comfortable with) I tend to have a lot of positive energy so I guess I’d say I do love it!

What’s the best job you’ve been on?

I'd say the lynx online ad, though its very recent so its still up in the air but it was a reaction ad- though I was shocked by the scene I was involved in it was great fun!! and I would do it again.

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

I'd say a photographer indiscretely making suggestions to me !! argh lol

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

I'd say it can be quite bitchy particularly if every female is vying for the limelight for example at music video shoots or if they see anyone who seems to be competition to them. But I’m not really bothered by that as at the end of the day I know that modelling is my dream therefore if I let those things get to me then it would take me away from my goal of establishing myself as a model.

What do you do when you’re not modelling?

At the moment I’m taking a year out from my studies which have been geared towards media and television otherwise I’m usually taking care of my son who I absolutely adore :)

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

I'd say Naomi Campbell.. and not because we both have the same name ;) but setting aside all the negative media she’s had. Naomi to me is a very grounded, strong and determined individual. Not only beautiful in her own right but is a successful black supermodel.

What’s your best feature?

I'd say my eyes.

What type of modelling would you never do?

Anything involving nudity.

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

Well nothing really if I’m being honest.. maybe running up and down after my son- does that count.. :) or sit ups I was doing between 50-100 a day but I’ve not seen much of a change but truthfully I do actually walk quite a bit. But when I become more strict with myself I intend to 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?

Bring it on... no seriously yes I believe I am ready and could handle rejection well because with an industry that is so big and trends that are for ever changing you have to be open to the idea that not every time you will be what people are looking for. With that it doesn't mean to say that an opportunity might not come knocking on your door all the same.

There’s loads of girls who want to be the next top model how do you stand out?
Well I’d say because I’m a very down to earth, honest and determined individual. not only that but being 5ft 5 its a lot harder to get jobs in the modelling industry as some areas seem to be determined by height. so it makes me want to give my up most best just knowing that I have to work 10 times harder.

Who would you like to work with in the future?

I’d like to work with up and coming UK urban designers as I feel we should support our own more. Otherwise I’d love to be the face of a product or be featured in a respectable magazine.

What’s next for you?

Hopefully, I would like to go to America next year sometime and see how I go out there- test the waters.. so watch this space!!

For more info on Deja go to:

www.myspace.com/deja86

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