Local Models Compete To Represent United States In London
Ten local women will compete Feb. 7 at Kroc Center’s performing arts center for the chance to represent the United States at Top Model in London.
They will summon their beauty and composure to the Kapolei facility as they attempt sway the judges to pick them for the March 13-14 event in England.
“Hawaii is representing the whole country,” said Top Model Hawaii executive producer Keikilani Ho, a former Mrs. Hawaii International. She took over as executive producer last August, and the post has worked out well for her. Top Model Hawaii is a representing country for Top Model Worldwide, which is considered the No. 1 international model search.
Ho’s friend Bola Harpprecht, Mrs. New Zealand International, emailed Top Model Worldwide’s director Geoff Cox about her.
“He emailed me asking if I wanted to be the producer for Hawaii,” she explained.
Contestants here are Adrian Seals, Kalamau Enoka, T’Jan Hall, Meghan Van Ness, Ann Upton, Angela Galvan, Bridget Saifoloi, Taylor Labanon, Leo Mabiog and Emmy Agustin. Ho calls the group a mix of experienced and novice models, who will compete in three segments, similar to a fashion show: swimwear, formal wear and casual wear.
“But they’re judged on themselves, not just on what they’re wearing,” Ho said. Poise, confidence, facial beauty and runway walk are among judging points. “What we’re looking for is a runway model at an international standard.”
Top Model Hawaii aims to “empower, enrich and establish the beautiful women of Hawaii.”
“We get to highlight the models here in Hawaii, who have to leave the island in order to get exposure,” said Ho. “It’s not fair in a way, but it’s so expensive for our girls to be seen.
“This competition makes it easier for them to (get exposure) without having to leave their home.”
She also hopes Top Model Hawaii will be a boost for Hawaii’s economy. “I’m not saying that it’s going to be as big as the Pro Bowl, but one day I want it to be that big,” she said. “All the other states will be sending their delegates to Hawaii … which will help the businesses and designers here.”
Tickets cost $40 (with a $2 online purchase fee included) at topmodelworldwidehawaii.com, and the first 300 people will receive a free favor and extended discount passes from participating sponsors.
Also, the first 100 people will receive signed 8-by-12 portraits of the delegates.
The production starts promptly at 6 p.m.
