Model students turn heads to help cause
Two Carinity Education Rockhampton students have turned heads at the same time as building their self-esteem and helping a not-for-profit community service.
Alysha Goltz and Makayla Carter swapped the classroom for the catwalk when they took part in the annual RACQ Face of Rockhampton modelling competition. The event consisted of runway and photographic modelling.
Carinity Education Rockhampton Principal Ben Sullivan said participating in the event helped the girls develop their confidence, self-esteem and presentation skills and create a positive body image.
“Part of Alysha and Makayla’s preparation was for them to consider their appearance, grooming and dress standards – a way of instilling positive ideas and good social values,” Ben says.
RACQ Face of Rockhampton raised money for RACQ Capricorn Helicopter Rescue, which provides a free aeromedical service around the Capricorn Region 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
“At the school we like our young people to engage with the community. Our students are always finding new ways to contribute to the school and to the community, a sense of attachment, wanting to grow and improve and to leave a mark,” Ben says.
Carinity Education teacher Fionula Fanning, who coordinated Alysha and Makayla’s entry into the charity modelling event, says the girls practised their runway walking after school and during school holidays.
Their preparation and training paid off. Wearing outfits from Vanessa Eyles Photography, and with support from Elite Avenues Modelling, Makayla was runner-up in Teen Miss Catwalk for 13 to 17-year-olds.
Alysha, who had previously won a state-wide competition for Indigenous models which resulted in her competing in Sydney, placed fourth in the photographic section.
“Carinity is very proud of the results but most importantly the event helped the girls develop knowledge of what they can achieve. Now they can set and achieve new goals,” Fionula says.
Carinity runs alternative education schools at Rockhampton, Hervey Bay, Brisbane and Gladstone for students who have had difficulty succeeding in mainstream schooling.
For more information visit carinity.org.au/education or call 07 3550 3737.
Photo by Pictures By Thalep.
