INTRODUCING THE 2021 VCFS MODELS!
24 years ago, our journey here at Vogue Charity Fashion Show began. Vogue Charity Fashion Show is an annual performing arts show produced and executed entirely by students at Queen’s University. 170 talented and creative dancers, models, choreographers, student designers, musicians, artists, and a dedicated executive committee are proud to call VCFS their home away from home. Our cast and crew team has successfully raised over $500,000 for deserving charities throughout Kingston since 1997. Today, we are proud to say that VCFS is one of the largest student-run fashion shows in all of Canada and the biggest club at Queen’s University.
This year, our models were hired based on creative insights, idea contribution, and enthusiasm toward the VCFS mission. Each model, therefore, offers something unique, abstract, and bold to elevate VCFS on all our platforms and fundraise for our charity through unmatched creativity.
Regardless of these weird, uncertain circumstances, we are confident that our models will have a large impact on VCFS this upcoming year. This year VCFS is making progressive changes to allow our models to have a voice on our platform. Through utilizing our press page, these models will have an opportunity to share their insights, experiences, and creative perspectives. At VCFS, we believe that our voices bring us together and our silence disconnects us.
So without further adieu, we are extremely excited to showcase this years talented 2020-2021 model portfolio! All the photos you see below were taken by the models as an additional component for their applications. The first of their many creative projects blew us away and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Monique Lee-Vassell // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with and why?
Based on where I'm at in life right now, I'd probably say Essence. Lately, I've been spending a lot of time exploring myself and diving deep into the fundamentals of who I am as a creative being and how I'm growing on this journey, and I must say, I've learned an immense amount.
Who is your creative muse?
070 Shake. She's an incredible artist whose songs not only relate to the struggles of our generation but stir my mind in a psychological way. She's such an innovative creative force right now- I'm like super obsessed with her and everything she does fashion-wise. I also admire Willow Smith. She's intelligent beyond her years and doesn't give a ****.
Lukas Kaufman // Model
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
Every year, VCFS has been able to generously donate to a local charity in Kingston. With VCFS taking a different approach this year, I am hoping to see the best result we can achieve through a variety of social media projects. I am excited to be a part of these projects and take on the creative challenges to ensure that we can accomplish our goals.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
I think I would choose Naples, Italy because I have always wanted to live on a coast in Europe, and Naples is known for its beaches and stunning architecture.
Sofia Beatson // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The scene I resonate the most with is definitely essence because it reminds me of the growth that happens within each of us and how important it is for us to evolve as different beings in order to create great connections.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live anywhere in the world I would live in Athens because I’ve always been fascinated by Greek mythology and I think the architecture is so beautiful.
Pamela Milanzi // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
I resonate most with Roots because the Black Lives Matter Movement has inspired me to embrace myself and my culture unapologetically.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I hope to see exactly what this year’s theme is: convergence. I want to see us all come together, despite our differences, and encourage and inspire one another. In an attempt to make this happen, I will be my most supporting and uplifting self in the presence of my peers.
Celine Petrossi // Model
Who is your creative muse?
Peggy Gou; if you don’t know her look her up, she’s dope! She has such a unique style and she is just an independent woman who is always creatively doing something new, unapologetically. Another huge creative influence on me is a woman named Hila Klein, she has a really dope clothing company called Teddy Fresh which uses really unique colors that often are seen in our daily clothing, which I think is really cool. She is the main creative director and is really hands-on, which is something I can really admire.
If you could live in any city of the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live in any city in the world, it would have to be in Paris, France. After visiting once I was hooked. It is the lifestyle, the clothing the culture, and especially the food that keeps me wanting to come back!
Brendan Reid // Model
Who is your creative muse?
David Bowie and Lorde.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I want to see VCFS use media and take advantage of our social platform to have a positive influence on the Queen’s and Kingston community, through our creative work and through our charity Almost Home. I wish to contribute my ideas on how to best translate our theme and message this year and be a face for the Vogue Charity Fashion Show.
Reya Hanspal // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The scene from this year's handbook that I resonate with the most is Kindred because my friends mean the world to me. I would not be complete without the people in my life, who love me and help me be my truest self.
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse is Claude Monet. His artwork fills me with warmth, and his paintings represent my aesthetic and inspire me.
Emily Gwin // Model
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I hope to see VCFS take on this new challenge with stride and use it as an opportunity to propel the show into the future. I’m so excited to be a part of the show in such a pivotal time, and I cannot wait to do everything I can to make it magical.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
I would love to live in New York City. While it sounds cliché, I find the hustle and bustle of the city so magical, not to mention the incredible fashion and art to be found on every corner. To be honest, if I could have a fresh NYC bagel every morning, I would be a happy girl.
Madison Yule // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The scene from this year’s handbook which most resonates with me is Kindred, simply because I completely and absolutely adore my friends. For a long time I felt like I had to limit or hide a lot of who I was; my style, my interests, and my identity, because I felt like those around me would judge me or shame me. Now, however, I have never been more in love with a group of people, nor felt more accepted and at home with them. I feel like Kindred absolutely sums up those emotions.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
This year I hope to see VCFS incorporate installation style art and set designs to the display of the fashion show in a socially distanced manner. Although many events, initiatives, and gatherings are being adjusted this year and moving forwards, I know that VCFS has an innovative and creative capacity to put on a wonderful and safe event.
Maggie Oxford // Model
Who is your creative muse?
All of the book and movie characters that I’ve admired and tried to become for a solid three weeks after the end of each story.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I’d like to help create an experience that makes people feel connected to the art and to each other, the latter of which is difficult right now. I want to make the scenes come alive by bringing good energy to everything we do this year.
Ashley Ngo // Model
Who is your creative muse?
Ruby Lyn
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live anywhere in the world, I would choose New York City! Being able to live in a diverse environment with high energy and an astounding fashion scene has always been my dream. I am planning on applying to a postgraduate program in the area, so I hope this dream can one day become a reality!
Cole Hazan // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
I resonate the most with essence. Being able to connect with somebody’s genuine, the unfiltered self is a beautiful thing.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I want to see vogue continue to create positive change in the Kingston community despite these uncertain, difficult times. I hope to contribute towards the creative solutions that VCFS will put forward in order to support Almost Home, our charity this year.
Jummy Oladipo // Model
What scene from this year’s handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The theme from the handbook that resonates with me the most is roots. Roots are the foundation of all that we are. They form our connections and allow us to transform into who we are meant to be. This scene stands out for me because of its emphasis on connection. Connections to ourselves and others. In a time as turbulent as this, it is important to remember who we are and where we come from. This is roots for me.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live in any city, it would be New York City. New York City has incredible energy to it. Whenever I am there, I feel inspired to be my true self. The diversity, sense of opportunity, and livelihood in the city are what draws me to it, and I hope to live there one day.
Trevor Gooden // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
Of the scenes in this year’s theme, I definitely find the Strangers theme to be the most captivating. To me, it represents the uncertainty and possibilities that come from strangers and interacting with diverse individuals. There’s something to be said about the impact that strangers can have on your life in a short period of time. Conversely, there are those you can know for a long time who maintain a sense of mystery. The scope of human interaction encompasses all these possibilities, and the Strangers theme represents these possibilities to me.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
Finally, as much as I love Toronto and the GTA, I’ve always been attracted to a diverse, rugged natural environment. I’ve always been attracted to the west coast, and after driving across the country this past summer I think I’d like to move to Vancouver after I graduate.
Madeleine Smith // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
I resonate most with the Roots scene. My family is very important to me and I keep them a high priority in my life, so the theme of staying connected to where we came from really hits home to me (no pun intended).
Who is your creative muse?
My creative influences change all the time, but lately, I’ve been especially inspired by David Byrne! After seeing his show American Utopia, I’ve been really interested in thinking about music, movement, and performance in a new way, placing joy and experimentation over perfectionism.
Owen Guthrie // Model
Who is your creative Muse?
At the risk of sounding narcissistic, I'd have to say my creative muse is myself. I believe self-reflection and self-expression are crucial to creativity; being creative is an excellent way to learn more about yourself. Fashion is a huge creative outlet for me and one that hinges on the idea of building an outfit that expresses my personality or mood.
If you could live in any city in the world, which city would it be and why?
Florence Italy is the city I'd most love to live in. Florence has a rich history that is especially interesting to me because of the field of study (art history), but it also has great rock climbing and fashion culture. I'd especially love to attend Pitti Uomo, a men's fashion exhibition held in the city.
Madison Reed // Model
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
This is a very different year for VCFS and a challenging one at that. One of the biggest challenges VCFS will face this year is reaching our previous fundraising goals, thus I would like to see and be involved in creativity within community involvement to make sure we are still able to give back to the community via Almost home fundraising and entertainment.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
I would live in Barcelona Spain because I want to live somewhere that I can speak another language and I have basic knowledge in Spanish, and I would love to live near the park Guell and experience the architecture by Gaudí every day.
Kyara Andrews // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
Reflecting on my life I find that the theme Convergence resonates with me the most. At four years old my parents decided to move our stereotypical Canadian family to South Korea, completely uprooting “the norm” and taking us on an adventure that would change our lives forever. Over my lifetime I have visited over 50 countries where I had the chance to explore new places, meet new people, and make new connections. Our nomad lifestyle allowed my path to converge with so many others leaving me with so many special friends and fond memories.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I hope to see VCFS use the COVID-19 situation to their benefit and completely reinvent the show in a whole new way! I am excited to be a part of something that has never been done before and am thrilled to bring my positive energy and creative ideas to make it happen.
Brealey Carragher // Model
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse would be all artists. I think artists see the world in a completely different way than I do and I really admire that. I also admire the way they have the ability to influence and enhance human emotion.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
This year I hope to see diversity from VCFS. I think that with everything going on in the world now is the time to push boundaries and make the invisible, visible. I want to be a part of this by promoting the diversity of our team.
Michelle Blaho-Melo // Model Intern
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
Nemesis is definitely my favorite. It isn't just a theme where everything is soft, delicate, and reserved. Nemesis has personality, it has passion, it has danger, it has anger, its intense! I love that the makeup can be bold and out of the box. The model has so much freedom with facial expressions and movements, it's a very fun theme, especially for those who like to push their creativity to the limit.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
I would have to say, Los Angeles. I love the warmth; Canada is much too cold for me! But on top of that, I love how many creatives are packed in one place. I think it would be interesting to be around so many inspiring people like that.
Ruby Luhtanen // Model
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse at the moment would have to be the YouTuber, Margot Lee. She often posts about fashion, writing, nutrition, and other lifestyle type themes in a creative and interesting way. Despite quarantine, she posted so many fun outfits on her Instagram that were taken around her neighborhood or in her backyard that have an editorial aesthetic. On top of this, her YouTube videos are always very calm and honest. She talks about how her interests have developed into legitimate opportunities and take her viewers through her thought process regarding her school and career goals. I am consistently inspired by her creative fashion choices and the way she uses her love of art in her everyday life through collaborations, internships, and personal projects.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of it?
I think a key aspect of this year’s exhibit will be the VCFS’s ability to adapt to the uncertain times we are currently facing. Members will clearly have to adjust their methods and approach to the show’s format from previous years, but this could take on the form of a new and evolving show in which the audience is even more captivated. I hope to be a part of this change by offering ideas with respect to the show format and helping to discuss ways that we can enhance the overall mood of the exhibit. Moreover, with emerging concerns around diversity and inclusion at Queen’s, I think that this year’s show could help pave the way for the VCFS to make the university a more inclusive campus. Although these changes will take more than one person, team, or university, the way in which the VCFS handles this will be pivotal in defining future years of the show and the club as a whole. Overall, I look forward to contributing to this evolution with my ideas and exploring the show through a new and innovative lens.
Chris Gauthier // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
Purpose has largely been on my mind this past summer, asking myself what is the purpose of my life, what is the purpose of humanity, and what is the purpose of our universe. Although these are questions we won’t likely ever answer, I spend time reading and reflecting on why we exist, why I exist, and how I can best live out my life. The scene offers a fantastic opportunity this dichotomy between the known and the unknown, and humanity’s attempt to discover meaning and understanding of the strange reality we are a part of.
Who is your creative muse?
I connect best with artists who not only explore real topics but those who offer thought and solution. J Cole started off as an artist I admired for his work, but quickly became an artist I admire for his ideals. He not only is a fantastic storyteller and incredible producer, but he is able to build an atmosphere for his message and present it in a way that is open yet decisive. I admire his passion and the precision he achieves in his craft.
Carolyn Mahr // Model
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
Having watched the show for the past two years, I've been mesmerized by how VCFS draws you in and tells every individual story; it builds this internal feeling of wanting to be on stage and joining in.
We're enduring a full year of change -- new format, new members, new challenges -- I hope we can find a new way of viewing audience participation beyond putting on a spectacle. I hope to be a part of a team of models that finds a way to make this an immersive experience beyond the show, and help the audience become a part of our story!
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
Amsterdam; a city rich in history, beautiful green space, and stroopwafels!
Marcus Sorrell // Model
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse would be big stars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury because, on top of providing content that viscerally affects their audience, they create and wear such big personas and outfits that accompany them. I appreciate the strength and courage it takes to wear such outfits and be unshakable to the opinions they may spark.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I would like to see VCFS push the boundaries of what it takes to be an "Instagram model", or what it takes to post a photoshoot. There are some unique ideas that I think could achieve that this year, but I would like most of all is to use our unique circumstances as an advantage to execute polished and fashion-forward concepts
Jade Leonard // Model
Who is your creative muse?
I don’t necessarily have one creative muse. I take a lot of inspiration from black women, most from New York usually, and what content they post online. I really enjoy seeing the creativity being produced from their outfits, hairstyles, and even acrylics that eventually become mainstream elements of fashion.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I’ve always wanted to see more diversity not just in Vogue but around campus in general. I’m super pumped that Amanda chose that as one of her main goals and glad to be a part of the representation.
Cameron Meakin // Model
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse is David Bowie. I love how he was constantly experimenting, reinventing himself, and challenging what was acceptable by a public personality. He had so many different versions and eras that I think everyone can find something that he did that they connect with and enjoy, whether that is his music or his fashion or his art
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live in any city, I would live in Bruges, Belgium. It’s a beautiful small, historic city with canals and cobbled streets, and when I was there a few years ago it was just incredibly peaceful. I think I will end up in a big city for work once I graduate, but when I am ready I would love to live in a small city in Europe, and Bruges is one of my favorites.
Laura Ferreira // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
I would have to say I’m particularly drawn to the theme of Kindred, a theme that captures the excitement and youthfulness that comes with new experiences and the growth of relationships all in one word. I feel so fortunate to have found individuals in my life that I’d say are my kindred spirits, individuals who I’ve connected with on another level of closeness, being able to travel with, trust with my secrets, have dance parties with when I’m happy with and watch movies with when I’m sad. Relationships like this bring such a bright light into life and I’m so happy Vogue has created a theme that can capture their importance and influence.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If anyone is picking up on a trend here… I don’t think I’d be able to pick just one (Hi I’m Laura and I’m incredibly indecisive). We’re restricted to one life, so I’d just hate the idea of restricting myself to just one city or job, there’s so much to experience and so little time! I’m originally from Trinidad and have to say that my upbringing on our diverse, friendly, beautiful little island has really molded me into someone who is exceptionally fascinated by cultures, so I’d love nothing more than to be able to experience other beautiful cultures that this world has to offer. From Polynesian islands to colourful South American cities to places like British Columbia or New Zealand that offer such a widespread amount of landscapes and scenery, there is nothing that would make me happier than to hop around and explore each and every one.
Abby Ochocinski // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The scene I most resonate with is Strangers. I love meeting new people and their experiences with those who come and go. I also find myself to be fascinated with the unknown and my curiosity usually takes the best of me in exploring it.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I hope to see more marketing of the overall theme and student creativity. I would contribute to making that happen by using my own social media platforms and trying to gain more attention to VCFS in showing the collaboration and brilliance of students.
Lena Malizia-Kelly // Model
Which scene from this year’s handbook do you most resonate with and why?
I most resonate with the Strangers scene from this year’s handbook because I feel most confident in the business/formal styles in that section of the handbook. The long coats, dark clothing, and mysteriousness of it all really draws me in. I love being dressed up and, on a mission, walking down the street passing strangers, in my own world.
Who is your creative muse?
My creative muse would have to be the Swedish singer Léon. Her music transports me to another world and I can’t help but dance and move. I have been a fan from the beginning and have always loved her classic winged liner and high-waisted everything. Her style isn’t pigeon-holed and she experiments with various looks and pieces, which I have come to realize is the most fun part of fashion. Her experimentation also transfers into her music as well; each song makes you feel a different way. Being able to make people really truly feel something from your art is a true talent.
Dawson Tilley // Model
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I hope VCFS can help galvanize connectivity in times where everyone exists on a continuum of constant contact and separation brought forth by quarantining. I want to help the team stay connected by emphasizing communication and contributing ideas in the scenes to come.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
New York! While my list is endless, New York undoubtedly tops it. Its size, culture, and spirit have always left me daydreaming of experiences to be had.
Martha Hillen // Model
Who is your creative muse?
I think my creative muse is definitely my mother. Her travel, her one true love (first time’s not always the charm!), and her sheer experience living enrich my imagination and creativity more than I think I realize.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
I would really like to see more queer representation in vogue this year. Though there are some queer students in various positions within the club, I believe that Vogue could use creative direction in different ways to give more concrete visibility to queer members! I would love to help with this in any capacity I can, collaborate, and conversing with my peers to make this a reality. This is something I believe to be important especially with this show theme because of how much each scene really plays into our own identities.
Samara Lijiam // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
The theme that I felt most resonated with me is Adoration. I was really attracted to the light and airy feeling of this scene. It is vintage and classic, and I think it best suited my aesthetic. It made me think of an old summer romance movie and represents the ethereal and whimsical vibe I strive for in summer and spring. In my shoot, I tried to highlight the romantic elements of this scene and make it wistful and intense.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
This year presents a lot of unique challenges for student programming and clubs. I hope Vogue uses this as an opportunity to be more innovative, accessible, and creative. This year's models have more input and creative influence, and I hope this means that everyone's individuality will shine through!
Mustafa Aldawoudi // Model
Who is your creative muse?
If I had to be honest, I don’t have a creative muse. If there’s something that I think about when it comes to creativity, it has to be colours for me. Colours are just different shades you see with your eyes, but when you combine them and create different patterns, you’re practically making art. You’re making history right then and there. Colours are ways of showing personality and conveying a meaning that will grab someone’s attention to feel what you do when you see a certain colour.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
If I could live in any city in the world, I’d live in New York City. It’s a scary world, but a crazy one. With lots of unforeseen and exciting opportunities to be explored, I’d go for it. Stepping out of my comfort zone and being a part of the hustle is something that sounds exhilarating.
Amrit Brar // Model
Which scene from this year's handbook do you most resonate with most and why?
From the VCFS 2020-2021 handbook, the scene I resonate the most with is Purpose. “Just as colors breathe life into a canvas, our relationships give purpose to our lives…the range of connections we make lets us leave fragments of ourselves in everyone we meet”. The images of clouds in the theme book reminded me of the phrase “on cloud nine’, a state of bliss, elation, or happiness. An individual cannot be on cloud nine if they are anchored down by negativity, greed, or jealousy. We are who we surround ourselves with, which is why our relationships must give purpose to our lives. “The range of connections we make [allows] us [to] leave fragments of” wisdom, patience, kindness, compassion, or knowledge in everyone we meet. Be conscious of the qualities unique to you, as they are superpowers that enable you to hold onto yourself while the world is continually shifting; as well as, be a positive influence on those who surround us.
If you could live in any city in the world which city would it be and why?
Without a doubt, I would move back home to London, England, UK. I was born in England and spent my childhood there until I moved to Canada in 2009. However, London has always felt like home to me as different ethnicities were celebrated and accepted during my childhood. London is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, with a third of its population born in a foreign country. For example, my elementary school prioritized celebrating multiple special occasions from different cultures in addition to Christmas and Easter. Occasions such as, but not limited to, Diwali, Eid, and Karamu Ya Imani. I would love to move back to once again be immersed in different cultures. Furthermore, moving to England would mean I get to be with my family!
Temi Akintan // Model
Who is your creative muse?
I have a passion for creating digital illustrations and designs. However, I’ve struggled with finding a healthy balance between pursuing my academic passions as well as my creative ones. I would have to say that the individual who has helped me the most on my journey to becoming a seasoned digital illustrator would be Sarah Shakeel. She started off as a dentist who created digital designs on the side and has now become a full-time designer. She started her creative career by allowing her surroundings to inspire her and constantly keeping an open mind. I hope to one day follow in her footsteps and oversee my own digital creation agency while still fulfilling my academic dream of becoming a cosmetic dentist.
What do you hope to see from VCFS this year? And how do you want to be a part of making that happen?
This year for VCFS, I am excited to see the models bring their own creativity to the shoots and all of the different methods of social media marketing. I think it will be a nice switch up from previous years as this year is more self-directed and so the models will be able to express themselves creatively in a way that hasn’t been done before. I hope to be able to bring a part of my cultural identity to Vogue this year and express my culture in a unique and personal way.
We are so excited to welcome the 2021 modeling team to the VCFS legacy. This year, the model duties vary from previous years, but the impact is stronger than ever! The models are being challenged to utilize the VCFS platforms, as well as their personal ones in virtual and innovative ways.
Their responsibility for the year lies less in a choreographed staged performance, but in generating several forms of creative content that captures the essence of our 2021 theme: CONVERGENCE. Exciting things are on the way! Stay tuned for more!
Marley Higgs // Press and Media Intern
Mikayla Bergamin // Press and Media Editor