The Modelling Association of Trinidad and Tobago (TMATT) is seeking to raise funds to support its Stride: Faces of Fashion Program. We have currently completed hosting the fourth installment of Stride: Faces of Fashion through September to November 2020. The program is designed to train models as per international standards; with theoretical and practical knowledge. Under normal circumstances our program consists of twenty-five to fifty models, however, we have reduced our intake to twelve models due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
TMATT is an NGO and the only trade organization of the Trinidad & Tobago modelling sub-sector. Our goal is to create a unified voice for the local modelling industry. Our objectives are to discover, develop and deploy initiatives to enable local models to enjoy profitable and fulfilling careers.
We have found that this program has been very beneficial for the self-confidence development of its participants, who have ranged in age from as young as 13 to 58 years of age. They come from varying levels of education and income but all leave with a greater understanding of not only the modelling industry but also how to maintain a healthy and positive self-image; as personal and image development are a key part of our training program.
The first month of the program was done successfully online for the first time this is the theory part of the program (So lots of notes). The second month (October) was dedicated to learning practical aspects of modelling including photo shoots needed to build their portfolios and runway training also done virtually for the first time. Month three saw the participants undertaking a photoshoot challenge where they planned a photoshoot on their own. Also attending Go-sees to present themselves to stakeholders i.e. Advertising executives, Retail Brand Managers, and Fashion Industry Professionals; some models have even booked jobs and projects already.
We will be broadcasting the Graduation Showcase on TTT on Sunday 13th December at 2 pm, where we invite you to join in so you can see how well these individuals have progressed, most having had no prior experience. The project has also been recorded for a five (5) episode television production by GT Network.
However to meet the expenses of the program and to host our 2021 cycle we are reaching out to you the public; the creatives, the professionals, the past models, the business owners to help us to help others, not just in creating better models but better and more confident citizens.