Lights, colours, and a runway. On June 4, 2023, I watched as the Youth Fashion Show unfolded. There were 11 designers and over 120 models that came together at a venue in the University of British Colombia. The designers represented both local and international talents with their diverse styles. And youth models travelled across Canada for the event.
Glam Z Gala created the show to showcase fashion dynamics and creativity in youths. Backstage, you can hear the clamour of children having fun. And on the runway, their personalities came through. It was a blend of fashion for everyday life, sporting activities, elegant attire, and even futuristic looks.
As we enter the world of Glam Z Gala, we watch as each designer stretches the possibilities of Youth fashion.
Founder of Glam Z Gala, Anna started the platform for youths to gain confidence and showcase their talents. She values diversity and welcomes all abilities to the runway. It is also an exposure to different beauty standards. Anna said, “I started this event to empower youth, especially young girls. In this digital age, beauty is a filter, and more and more girls struggle with self-esteem.” It was fascinating how kids are initially shy and unsure of themselves during auditions. Then later, transform into their authentic selves on the runway. They leave the event with their heads up and a huge smile.
I met up with a model Sisi Wang. She was on the runway for Meet Marie. She complimented the style as nice and comfortable. Sisi has been modelling for less than a year. She loved that the event was well prepared. “Professional experience as a new model,” Sisi added. She enjoyed walking on the runway and would love to come again.
The winner of the top model prize, Sage Reber, also made an appearance. She walked in New York Fashion Week (NYFW) last year. Sage is a positive role model for girls. And this year, she will compete for Miss Teenage Canada.
Milana Spark is an athlete and model who shares fun content on Instagram and TikTok. She has walked runways, including Toronto Kids Fashion Week, NYFW, and Mode6ix Show.
Alexis Chan is a young and accomplished model who has explored the world on diverse runways. This includes Hong Kong, Dubai, and Paris. This year, Alexis won the top model title at Glam Z and will be walking in NYFW.
Allysha Nolasco is another top model winner joining Alexis on the trip to NYFW. Allysha is a model and actor that is active in her community and an inspiration to youths.
Proud parent Nick Johnson, AKA Binga first time at Glam Z Gala. He runs a page on Facebook where he shares his lifestyle as a family of four called Binga’s Life. His advice to parents is to let kids have fun. “Let them be kids. Don’t force them to be something they’re not”.
Nick got his daughter, Tatianah Johnson to take part by applying and going through the interview process. His daughter enjoyed it and will pursue more modelling opportunities.
In between the fashion show were performances by Vlada Dancesport, Royal Muse, AMED Dance Academy, and Richmond Academy of Dance.
To learn more about being part of the Kids Fashion Show as a model, designer, sponsor, or performer, connect with Glam Z Gala on Instagram and Facebook.
~~~
Stella M’lia started in the summer of 2010, creating party dresses for tween and teen girls. I liked the range of colours. A blend of bright colours and darker colours perfect for a special occasion. It is stylish yet timeless and age-appropriate.
Goodbuyandhello is a Vancouver-based designer that has a passion for community and fashion. Their slogan is “Mend when torn, reuse when outgrown.” It is a circular approach to kids’ fashion that reduces the environmental waste of fast fashion. It is good to know that such brands keep sustainability at the forefront of their clothing.
Lesavan is also based in Vancouver. Founder, Savannah Le launched her first collection this year. The designer caters to fashion for newborns to teens. The dresses are inspired by English-sewn outfits, focusing on the Victorian-style era in the 1900s. These classics encourage the kids to shine bright with their clothing.
Travelling around the world for 12 years evoked the brand, Meet Marie. It is a woman-owned fashion brand created for girls’ teens and tweens. Most of the designer’s collaboration is with Noyemi Pia, a 12-year-old. She has a passion for exploring the world around her. Noyemi has worked for top brands such as Lanvin, Chloe and Marc Jacobs. It is an ode to the adventurous spirit within us. Noyemi believes that fashion can impact how we express our unique perspectives.
Meet Marie showcased a limited collection made up of 12 modern pieces inspired by 12 different countries. This collection is both comfortable and stylish. Feel confident and empowered regardless of where adventures may lead.
From Brooklyn, New York, comes a family-owned luxury brand, Young Gods. Eunika Simmons and her two sons, Nigel Simmons, and Carlos Simmons created the brand in 2015. They deliver confidence in clothing. It was their first appearance at Glam Z Gala but their second time as a designer.
Their apparel is also sold in Asia and Europe. And later this year, Young Gods will be breaking into the South African market. They have attended NYFW five times and various photoshoots for models.
Eunika aims to bring the best quality and tailors clothing for the runway. She explains her process, “Get to know the model and design based on their energy and lifestyle.” Young Gods curates custom-made clothing, even for red-carpet events. The brand speaks to young influencers, young models, and actors. Those that want to stand out with their clothing and are not shy about it. The brand aims to uplift the kid’s energy with their clothing. Hence, bringing out their inner confidence.
Expressing unique style with fashion is Kayzie Couture. The brand aims to create exclusive designs for each wearer to define their unique style. Amber-Rose Snow is the designer. She wants to build the kid’s self-esteem through modelling. She helps models that are not yet where they want to be in their skill sets. She notices kids backstage hanging out with friends instead of keeping to themselves.
Amber-Rose described the fashion show as a “High school dance without the awkwardness.” Her advice to those interested in being part of a fashion show was to do it and make it happen. Her thirteen-year-old daughter inspired the designs. She has witnessed her daughter walk on runways.
Amber-Rose’s daughter fed her desire to model. Her first experience in Los Angeles was disappointing, but the next show in New York was better. She got a little taste of a big life.
A brand based in Malaga, Spain, made their presence known. Mayoral is a clothing brand for newborns up to eighteen years old. One word, adorable. For both the clothing and the models. They offer diverse coordinated garments in different fabrics and styles. And they ship globally!
Linda Bellino is a luxury brand based in Calgary, Alberta. It is a blend of art and fashion. They use fashion to allow kids to feel like royalty. It is a one-stop shop for formal wear. The great thing is that you can purchase clothing, shoes and accessories.
Sinosha Kids displays formal looks for kids. This brand features a variety selection of children’s dresses and suits. They provide wholesale trendy fits for kids. Each attire highlights the importance of matching styling and elegance for a special occasion.
Check out this comfortable activewear for women. Redefine the social and physical stereotypes of women. This brand is based in Vancouver. Vitae Apparel chic and silky-smooth apparel embraces femininity and empowers body positivity. Every piece of clothing encourages women to fall in love with their bodies.
Enhle Babes Couture was founded by the designer, Miss Enhle Gebashe, in Johannesburg, South Africa when she was only ten years old! Enhle has several design awards, and the city of Johannesburg has murals of her designs. I loved the display of African prints and bling. The models look vibrant, and it is a chance to share South African culture with the rest of the world.
To learn more about being part of the Youth Fashion Show as a model, designer, sponsor, or performer, connect with Glam Z Gala on Instagram and Facebook.
Hi, I’m Kimberly Ihekwoaba and I am a multimedia storyteller. I entertain, educate, and empower people around the world through the power of storytelling. Check out my blog for my latest posts.
Does this resonate with you? Share, Comment, or hit Like
Subscribe
Sign up for the mailing list to receive the latest blog posts, interviews, and exclusive announcements.
We respect your privacy
Connect with me on:
Kimberly Ihekwoaba 