A Fall/Winter 2023 Curtain Raiser With 11 New Model Faces In Singapore
The bright and the beautiful.
By Noelle Loh,
Ushering in the new fashion season with 11 young Singapore‐based models whose personalities and passion make them all the more captivating.
Name: Mary Rose Jacob – “Some of my friends call me MRJ or MJ, but I like to go by Mary!”
Age: 16
Ethnicity: Indian-Arab – “I was born in Kerala and lived in Dubai before moving to Singapore when I was much younger because of my dad’s job.”
Agency: Basic Models
How she was discovered: “A friend had suggested that I try out for Basic’s open casting during the school holidays, convinced that I had a shot, and I’ve been signed to the agency since November 2022.”
Mary wears nappa leather jacket with wool and cotton collar, nappa leather skirt and leather slingback flats, Prada. Socks, model’s own
Why be a model: “I want to see more representation of people who look like me in magazines and advertisements especially for younger girls so that they never have to worry about trying to look like someone else. And instead of waiting around for that to happen, I thought, why not try to be that representation.”
Her first modelling job: “One of the two multi-model cover stories for the April 2023 issue of Female!
What she thinks makes a top model: “I think today models have to have a very large social media presence… And call me old-fashioned, but I think being tall helps.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “Oh this question has me stuck! I asked my mum and she said it’s my eyes, but I think it could be my face considering that I'm not very tall?”
Her favourite model: “Anok Yai! She’s walked for multiple luxury brands, but also graduated with a degree in biochemistry from Harvard. This means she has beauty and brains, and I really look up to her for that.”
If she weren’t a model… “I would be more active in sports. It’s also my ambition to be a psychologist.”
Her hobbies: “Taekwondo, listening to music and reading.”
Her pet peeve: “When people are overly negative or judgemental – chill out bro, everything will be okay.”
Social causes that she stands for: “Access to basic necessities like water, food and shelter and to help, I volunteer with food banks to distribute meals on any free Sunday that I have.”
Mary wears Coco Crush Toi Et Moi large 18K white and beige gold ring with diamonds (on index finger), Coco Crush small 18K yellow gold ring (on middle finger), and matching mini 18K beige gold ring with diamonds (on ring finger, top), and mini 18K yellow gold ring (on ring finger, bottom), Chanel Watch and Fine Jewellery
Something interesting about her: “I have a black belt in taekwondo.”
How she would describe herself: “I am very… talkative? I’m not entirely sure how to describe myself, but that’s the first thing that came to mind.”
A song that represents her: “This changes all the time, but right now, it’s Talk 2 U by Brent Faiyaz.”
Someone she looks up to: “My mum because she is very strong and brave. She is constantly trying out new things even if they are scary and inspires me to do the same.”
What makes her happy: “Spending time with my friends and family. Thinking about it alone makes me excited.”
The best thing about being young is… “having the time to try out so many different things.”
The worst thing about being young is… “if you get stuck on the wrong path and it’s hard to get off it.”
What excites her most about the future: “Seeing how I can foster my interests: taekwondo, modelling and school.”
Mary wears cashmere dress, Chanel
Name: Lau Cheuk Ying – “but people call me Chloe”
Age: 22
Ethnicity: Chinese Singaporean – “I was born in Malaysia, but my parents were working in Singapore… When I was four, I immigrated to Singapore and have been here since.”
Agency: Mannequin Studio
How she was discovered: “Three years ago, my boyfriend had persuaded me to attend an open casting by Mannequin Studio that he had seen being marketed on Instagram. I almost ditched the opportunity because I thought there was no way I could make the cut.”
Chloe wears silk cady dress, Dior. Anatomic polyester knit boots, Balenciaga
Why be a model: “It was a bucket-list goal – a ‘why-not’ kind of thing – and in some ways, that’s still the case. I see modelling as possibly a short-term full-time career as I enjoy how it allows me to travel, meet new people and work on cool jobs. I’d love to walk at Fashion Week again and hopefully book a magazine cover one day and earn enough money to give my dog Nootnoot a good life… A more obvious career choice would be to work in the tech industry (she’s entering the fourth year of her computer science degree) – my life goal is to travel the world and tech is very mobile and flexible. Other than that, I have fleeting dreams of being a baker, a vlogger, a cafe owner, or a tattoo artist. In short, I am completely clueless about my ambition and will go where life takes me.”
Her first modelling job: “An e-commerce job for the local designer Sabrina Goh in June 2020”
What she thinks makes a top model: “Now more than ever, an ‘It’ model would have to manage their social media accounts well as it’s a good way to market themselves. Having a unique look, personality or style is also important.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “It might be that I can emote and pose well for different jobs and shoots.”
Her favourite model: “Sabrina Lan, whose face I’ve been swooning over lately.”
If she weren’t a model… “I would still be me.”
Chloe wears sequinned cotton dress, Coach. Clash de Cartier large pink gold earrings with onyx and diamonds, Cartier
Her hobbies: “I like to read – specifically historical fiction and science fiction (I’ve been obsessed with Kazuo Ishiguro as of late). I also like to make vlogs on Youtube and Instagram, but I procrastinate so much with them. And I would love to bake and hike more.”
Her pet peeves: “Crowded places and people who walk slow walkers, yet hog the entire pathway.”
Social causes that she stands for: “Better living and working conditions for migrant workers. I’m in a volunteering organisation called TWC2 where we help migrant workers. In the department that I’m in, we bring workers who are currently not working due to the likes of injuries out to discover Singapore. I’ve not been super active recently due to work commitments, but I definitely will volunteer more soon.”
Something interesting about her: “Is it TMI (too much information) if I were to share that my armpit hair is very scarce?”
How she would describe herself: “A 22-year-old coffee lover, computer science student, sometimes-model and ambitious dreamer meandering through life.
Chloe wears jacquard wrap dress, suede goatskin boot, and 18K rose gold necklace, Hermes
A song that represents her: “Let It Happen by Louis Cole”
Someone she looks up to: “There are many people whom I look up to for different reasons: a busy colleague who manages to make time for hobbies; friends who are hugely successful but stay down-to-earth and humble; and people who know what they want and get it.”
What makes her happy: “Desserts, coffee, and cosy nights during snow-blanketed winters”
The best thing about being young is… “being in the prime of our physical health; freedom; and having the ease and energy to do whatever we want.
The worst thing about being young is… “struggling finances”
What excites her most about the future: “To be able to live my dream of having a slow-paced life somewhere in the arctic with friends, my family and my dog. That and to be able to travel and see all parts of the world.”
Chloe wears sequinned cotton dress, Coach. Clash de Cartier large pink gold ring with onyx and diamonds, Cartier
Name: Dineaish Rajendran – “Close friends call me Din or Din Din because it’s a shorter, faster and cuter way of saying my name.”
Age: 19 – “I turn 20 next month.”
Ethnicity: Indian-Javanese
Agency: Misc Management
How he was discovered: “I went for an open casting at Misc and got signed bu the agency this year in late February.”
Why be a model: “I feel like modelling is something that’s always been in me since childhood. I’ve always loved styling myself and taking pictures – I was very photogenic as a kid and realised that posing for photographs allowed me to express myself. I see myself becoming a world renowned model – that’s the goal.”
His first modelling job: “A Malaysian-based magazine in 2021 when I was not signed to any agency.”
What he thinks makes a top model: “Being humble and kind. You can be the prettiest model or have amazing features, but what’s all that if you have a bad attitude. I believe in being down-to-earth and standing up for what’s right.”
What he thinks is his X-factor: “I am very versatile and confident with my runway walk. My fearlessness when it comes to trying new things means I don’t shy away from shoots that might be weird or unexpected in nature, and I can incorporate my dance background into my movements and poses. (He is dance-trained and competes and performs as a dancer as well as teaches choreography.)”
His favourite model: “Bella Hadid. She has all the qualities that I value and also delivers as a model with her amazing walk and personal fashion sense. And like me, she’s a libra so I can relate to her.”
If he weren’t a model… “I would be directing my own shoots as projects for myself and as a form of creative expression… I do not like putting myself in a box and like dabbling in various industries. If this doesn’t pan out, I think I’d be doing something related to dance and social media, which includes creating content that involves fashion and makeup.”
Dineaish wears lambskin biker jacket and matching shorts, Coach. Earrings and naval stud, model’s own
His hobbies: “Thrifting, hanging out with friends and partying”
His pet peeve: “Rude or entitled people – and I love standing up against them because I want them to know it’s not okay to behave like that towards others.”
Social causes that he stands for: “I’m for the LGBTQIA+ community and inclusivity, and I am against racism.
Something interesting about him: “I’ve seen a shooting star!”
How he would describe himself: “I am fearless in not conforming to society’s standards. I love exploring new things, and don't shy away from being different through mediums such as fashion, modelling, makeup, and dance.”
A song that represents him: “Princess Diana by Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj”
Someone he looks up to: “Bretman Rock. He seems really humble and down-to-earth all while having so much personality and being so fearless and unapologetically himself. He has that bad bitch aura and, like me, dabbles in several industries and is well-known for multiple talents.”
What makes him happy: “Being around my friends.”
The best thing about being young is… “being able to be carefree and not having much responsibilities.”
The worst thing about being young is… “Being underestimated.”
What excites him most about the future: “Achieving the milestones and goals that i’ve always dreamt of.”
Dineaish wears cotton denim jacket and matching skirt, Coach. Earrings, naval stud and boots, model’s own
Name: Dian Zahid
Age: 19
Ethnicity: Malay Singaporean
Agency: Misc Management
How she was discovered: “In 2021, I came across Misc’s account while scrolling through Instagram and thought it would be so cool to be able to call myself a model. I thus asked my friends to tag Misc in the comments of my latest post and (co-founder/head booker) Tim reached out via DM after and asked me to come in for a casting. You can say I was very sneaky about it.”
Why be a model: “I wouldn’t say that modelling is a career for me. (A soon-to-be year two student in Lasalle College of the Arts’ performance diploma programme, she has studied the likes of acting, musical theatre and stage combat, and is also working on becoming a singer-songwriter.) Instead it’s more of something that I’m doing to push myself out of my comfort zone. Of course, when I am given a modelling job, I take it seriously. I find modelling to be a great platform to build self-confidence and to show people that everyone has something that makes them beautiful and that there’s no one standard of ‘perfection’. I also want to represent the Malay community in this industry. Plus, modelling is a great way to network across different creative industries.”
Dian wears cashmere knit top, cotton denim jeans, 30 Montaigne Cannage calfskin belt with gold-finished metal buckle, and D-Academy calfskin loafers, Dior
Her first modelling job: “It was for a local label in September 2021 – I thought to myself, oh god, please don’t mess this up.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “Being humble is really important. No matter what you’ve achieved, you have to keep in mind that you had started from zero and you must remember the people who have supported you from day one. I also think that a good model should be open-minded and not afraid to try something new and push boundaries. Most of all, a top model must be expressive and comfortable in his or her own skin.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “As someone who is studying performance, I’m taught how to engage an audience. I’m also a very positive person and believe that my passion and energy would come in helpful in this industry. Oh, and my hair is crazy huge.”
Her favourite model: “I’m not sure if Zendaya counts, but I find her aura really soothing and you can tell that she’s really passionate and comfortable on camera.”
If she weren’t a model… “I’ve always dreamed of being a singer-songwriter, and doing musical theatre and film acting on the side. Since I was young, I’ve been performing and quickly discovered that it is my passion. My ultimate goal in life is to use my songs and work to share with people that they’re not alone in what they’re feeling. I’d also really like to be able to earn money from concerts and donate it to charities.”
Her hobbies: “Besides singing, writing songs and dancing, I read Dramione fanfictions (I’m a Potterhead); hang out with my friends and mum; make jewellery; go shopping to feed my shopping addiction; and play netball with the Woodlands Community Sports Network on Thursdays. I also do volunteer work, but most of the time, I just chill at home with nothing to do.”
Her pet peeves: “Chewing noises, people who walk slow, people being rude to workers, and people who don’t understand boundaries."
Dian wears wool sweater with sequins; metal and strass earrings, and matching necklace, Chanel
Social causes that she stands for: “The importance of mental and emotional health – I believe that people’s voices deserve to be heard especially when it’s about their emotions or something that they’re passionate about. I also believe that there should be more positivity in the world. I use my social media platforms (@dianquuu on Instagram and @diiiaannn on TikTok) to share my music and vulnerability in the hope of reaching out to those who need somebody who understands how they feel and and won’t shame them for it.”
Something interesting about her: “I have rewatched the Buffy the Vampire Slayer series nine times from start to finish. My favourite character is Spike.”
How she would describe herself: “I’m extremely passionate about my work, which makes me very goal-oriented and career-driven. I also love spending time with my friends and family as being around them makes me happier.”
A song that represents her: “Noah Kahan’s Call Your Mom”
Someone she looks up to: “Sabrina Carpenter who has done everything that I want to do: be a singer-songwriter as well as film actor; go on tour; work with Disney; done musical theatre; and have even appeared in several magazines. I also really relate to her songs and I love how she’s really authentic even when on camera.”
What makes her happy: “My friends, family, and music”
The best thing about being young is… “having the freedom to mess up and try new things”
The worst thing about being young is… “sometimes being overlooked or having your feelings invalidated by older people.”
What excites her most about the future: “To see myself grow into the person whom I’m working on becoming.”
Dian wears leather jacket embellished with metal chains and jewelled buttons, matching bermuda shorts, wool sweater with sequins, and metal and strass necklace, Chanel
Name: Katherine Wu
Age: “I turn 15 in September.”
Ethnicity: Chinese – “I’m originally from Taiwan, but moved a lot growing up because of my parents’ jobs. That’s how my family ended up in Singapore and I’ve converted my citizenship to Singaporean.”
Agency: Basic Models
How she was discovered: “I went to Basic Models’ open casting las year and was lucky to have gotten signed by the agency last November.”
Why be a model: “I was always told growing up that I should model because I’m very tall (her height at press time was 1.78m) and have clear skin, and I’d love to model and become well-known internationally. I hope to book jobs overseas and meet models from other countries, and appear on billboards in malls and be able to point them out to my grandparents when we go out and say, “look, that’s me!”. Most of all though, I hope that the experience will make me more at ease with my height because I’ve always been insecure about it.”
Her first modelling job: “Walking the graduation fashion show for the Management Development Institute of Singapore’s Fashion and Design school in March this year.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “A great personality and being kind to others”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “My height and a small birthmark on my face”
Her favourite model: “Bella Hadid, who’s stepped out from being in her big sister Gigi’s shadow and rebuilt her brand and image, as well as been named the most beautiful woman in the world.”
If she weren’t a model… “I’d love to become a veterinarian as I love, love, love animals and biology, and have thought of combining the two through veterinary science if modelling doesn’t work out. I also wonder what I would look like without bangs, which I cut (as part of my model makeover.”
Her hobbies: “I love playing volleyball and badminton with my family even though I’m no good at them. I also love to crochet, cycle and read fiction in my free time.”
Her pet peeve: “Crocs with socks”
Social causes that she stands for: “Body positivity and being able to feel comfortable in one’s own skin and body. I have skin problems such as sensitive skin that make me feel insecure, but I’ve been more open about them on my Instagram account (@katherinewu_08) and that’s made me feel more comfortable about my skin and who I am.”
Something interesting about her: “I have moved countries seven times – insane.”
How she would describe herself: “Outgoing when I’m comfortable, and shy with people whom I don’t know.”
A song that represents her: “Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift!”
Someone she looks up to: “My mother. Ever since I was born, she’s been working hard to provide for my family so much so that she’s neglected herself and her body, which was very different before she had me. Yet she still loves and is proud of herself, and doesn’t let anyone get in her way – not even my father.”
What makes her happy: “Being with my family.”
The best thing about being young is… “Not having to worry too much about money”
The worst thing about being young is… “Not having money”
What excites her most about the future: “Graduating from secondary school and seeing where I end up after.”
Katherine wears lambskin shirt dress with chain, Loewe. Fleece wool skirt, Tod’s. Celine by Hedi Slimane cashmere stole (worn wrapped around head), Celine. Anatomic polyester-blend knit boots, Balenciaga
Name: Ally Teo – “My nickname is Ollie Toe, started by a friend in primary school who was trying to come up with a different way of pronouncing my name and it’s stuck since.”
Age: 19
Ethnicity: Chinese Singaporean
Agency: Mannequin Studio
How she was discovered: “Via Instagram back in 2020.”
Why be a model: “It started out as something that I did for fun, but the more shoots I did, the stronger my passion for modelling has become. I would like to make this a career, but it’s extremely hard to make it being shorter than most models (she’s 1.7m-tall). A lot also boils down to luck.”
Her first modelling job: “A video for Bagaholicboy just a week into getting signed by Mannequin in November 2020”
What she thinks makes a top model: “A top model today has to know how to market him or herself extremely well and use social media to their advantage. In my opinion, modelling is a lot about luck as everyone can work hard, but only some are able to make it big.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “Apart from being a model, I’m venturing into other forms of entertainment such as acting, singing, dancing and content creation. This diversity has taught me to express myself in different way and I believe this allows me to be versatile and bring a different perspective to modelling.”
Her favourite model: “Xiao Wen Ju – I love her look.”
If she weren’t a model… “I would still be involved in some form of entertainment. I’ve started doing some content creation and like vlogging and working with brands. That or medicine. (She’s at present a year three pharmaceutical science student at a local polytechnic.)”
Her hobbies: “Creating content, singing, dancing, travelling and trying scary rides at theme parks.”
Her pet peeve: “People who don’t reciprocate the same energy that I give to them.”
Ally wears silk-viscose twill reverse halter neck dress with ostrich feathers, and gold-tone sterling silver bracelet with crystals, Bottega Veneta
Social causes that she stands for: “I’m against animal testing and volunteer at an animal shelter as well as (the food charity) Free Food For All. I am also trying to be more sustainable.”
Something interesting about her: “I am a certified scuba diver and know how to ride horses.
How she would describe herself: “I am an adventurous, loving and thrill-seeking being. I enjoy doing what my heart wants.”
A song that represents her: “Hello by Aqyila.”
Someone she looks up to: “Both my parents who worked extremely hard and had to give up their creative interests in the past for practical reasons and to bring my family up. I am able to pursue my creative interests because of their hard work and sacrifices.”
What makes her happy: “Being able to do what I love, and having friends and family who are real with me and support me.”
The best thing about being young is… “Being able to do as many things that I want before finding a full-time job.”
The worst thing about being young is… “Nothing really.”
What excites her most about the future: “To see how my life will be like when I’m older. I hope that I’ll still be in the entertainment or creative scene.”
Ally wears nylon and wool-blend jacket with leather, wool skirt and leather pumps, Prada
Name: Sophia Begum
Age: 19
Ethnicity: “My dad is Indian and my mum is Javanese and Portuguese.”
Agency: Mannequin Studio
How she was discovered: “I emailed my digitals to a few modelling agencies and a few replied. When I met up with the people at Mannequin however, I knew it was the right choice for me and signed with the agency in May this year.”
Why be a model: “I grew up under challenging circumstances so modelling was never in my headspace until I got older and saw how powerful models can be in representing and conveying a message, or breaking stereotypes. I love that modelling isn’t just about taking photographs while being all dressed up in cool outfits and makeup. It’s so much more. It could inspire future artists and photographers, and I hope that I can represent other girls who look like me in an industry where fair skin and Eurocentric features remain the beauty standard. Being able to model and make a difference to the industry as well as forge a future for myself is my top priority.”
Her first modelling job: “This Female shoot is my first editorial.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “An eccentric walk, a strong sense of style and the ability to connect to fans.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “That I’m open to anything. I am a very versatile person and also very experimental, which I feel is something that models need to be. Why hold yourself back?”
Her favourite model: “Taylor Russell, who’s a beyond-talented actress and model who has come so far as to be the face of Loewe and open its show entirely on her own merits. I’ve always wanted to be a runway model but I'm a few centimetres shorter than the industry requirements. Taylor has however shown that one can do runway no matter the height!”
If she weren’t a model… “I would like to be a writer or editor. I love to write poetry and short stories.”
Sophia wears wool-blend dress embellished with glass beads, Miu Miu
Her hobbies: “I spend my free time listening to music, and reading and writing a lot. Poetry and literature are things that I hold very close to my heart. When I was in secondary school, I used to get in trouble and got sent to detention a lot. In there, I'd spend the whole hour writing poetry, short stories and pieces in which I reflected about my feelings, and forced my friends to read them after. I enjoy reading a lot of translated literature in particular.”
Her pet peeve: “When people talk over me.”
Social causes that she stands for: “Protecting LGBTQIA+ youth as well as ending the abuse of foreign workers in Singapore… I try to spread awareness about these issues to the people around me. We can all also make a huge difference by supporting LGBTQIA+ youth and their art.”
Something interesting about her: “I have an unhealthy obsession with Timothee Chalamet.”
How she would describe herself: “I am someone who has a very strong idea of what she wants. I will also do anything for the people I love.”
A song that represents her: “Hope by Blood Orange, which describes the fear we often feel and the yearning for it to stop so well.”
Someone she looks up to: “Kevin Abstract, whose album American Boyfriend: A Suburban Love story got me through a really rough patch in my life. His impact on the music industry and how he has paved the way for LGBTQ representation in rap is unparalleled. He has helped me come to terms with who I am and has inspired me to keep writing. I can't imagine how many people he has helped with his music.”
What makes her happy: “Hanging out with my friends!”
The best thing about being young is… “Being able to write your own future.”
The worst thing about being young is… “Having to find yourself.”
What excites her most about the future: “To see the person I will become and where I’ll end up in years to come.”
Sophia wears Celine by Hedi Slimane wool jacket, matching skirt, silk crepe shirt with satin bow (sold together), and Bulky calfskin biker boots, Celine
Name: Ahmad Ramzy – “but I prefer Mido Ramzy, a nickname I was given at a very young age by my family as a form of endearment and to distinguish me from others as Ahmad is quite a common name.”
Age: 22
Ethnicity: “I’m Indian Singaporean on my mum’s side and Arab on my dad’s side.”
Agency: Now Model Management
How he was discovered: “A model from another agency had reached out to me back in 2021 to ask if I modelled and if I’d be interested to do so. This started me on my freelance modelling career before I got signed to Now in November last year.”
Why be a model: “For me, modelling has been an extension of how I practise self-love as well as a way to meet like-minded people. It also fuels my passion for fashion. With my career in its early stages, I don’t really know where it’ll lead me, but I’d love to see where it takes me. I hope to be able to walk for a major runway show in Paris – specifically Saint Laurent – and do a cover shoot and be the face of a brand… Modelling is also in all honesty a source of income.”
His first modelling job: “A commercial for Coca-cola in December 2022”
What he thinks makes a top model: “The obvious answer is confidence, but also effortless swag, a sexy walk, and a good sense of who he or she is and how that distinguishes one from other models”
What he thinks is his X-factor: “I’m still figuring that out.”
Mido wears cashmere mock neck top, virgin wool canvas pants, and matching kilt with resin buckle, Dior
His favourite model: “Alton Mason because of the success he’s achieved and his effortless runway walk. As a fellow coloured model, I can’t help but feel inspired and aim to achieve what he has.”
If he weren’t a model… “I’d be a psychologist and a humanitarian activist… I’d still be pursuing my passions and doing my very best in everything that I take on.”
His hobbies: “I love swimming and painting, and I’m huge film geek.”
His pet peeve: “Messy spaces and loud eaters”
Social causes that he stands for: “Humanitarian aid in conflict zones of post-war torn countries such as Yemen. I do try my best to stay in touch with my family in Yemen and actively ask about donations for locals suffering and contribute what I can.”
Something interesting about him: “I speak five languages and at age 13, my family and I escaped the Yemen civil war.” (He eventually returned to Singapore, where he grew up, to complete his national service and to “reconnect with a country that was once my home”.)
How he would describe himself: “I am a traveller who’s quick to adapt and am constantly exploring new things and places. I’m also always up for a social event to meet new people and I’m very empathetic and compassionate.”
A song that represents him: “In My Feelings by Lana del Rey”
Someone he looks up to: “My mother. I’m constantly in awe of her strength and resilience and am fuelled by it everyday – she’s a single mum who has managed to come out of the other side of adversity with a smile on her face and warm hug for others.”
What makes him happy: “Being with people whom I love and care about.”
The best thing about being young is… “making mistakes and learning from them.”
The worst thing about being young is… “peer pressure and the risk of falling into a bad crowd”
What excites him most about the future: “In the near future, that would be going to university and starting the next chapter of my saga. In the long term, it would be to be able to leave a lasting footprint in the world and be a facilitator of change.”
Mido wears denim jacket, matching Double Side pants and Anatomic polyester knit boots, Balenciaga
Name: Mirabelle Yap
Age: 17
Ethnicity: Chinese – “My dad is Singaporean and my mum is originally from Vietnam.”
Agency: Basic Models
How she was discovered: “Through Basic Models’ open casting last year”
Why be a model: “Modelling has always been something that I’m interested in. I also want to show people who have looked down on me or teased me about my looks that I’m doing something that they said I can never do.”
Her first modelling job: “A beauty editorial with the Chinese magazine Nuyou in January this year.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “A good attitude and being able to adapt easily”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “My strong belief in myself as well as my creativity and imagination, which could come in handy since models are often expected to adopt different personas”
Her favourite model: “Yasmin Wijnaldum – I really love her walk, her striking features and her vibe.”
If she weren’t a model… “I hope to become an entrepreneur and start my own business. I would love to open a cute cafe – or an interior design firm”
Mirabelle wears cashmere cardigan, denim jeans, metal necklace with leather, and suede boots with patent leather toecaps, Chanel. Coco Crush Toi Et Moi large 18K white and beige gold ring with diamond (on middle finger), Coco Crush mini 18K beige gold ring with diamonds (on ring finger, top), and matching mini 18K beige gold ring (on ring finger, bottom), Chanel Watch and Fine Jewellery
Her hobbies: “Reading and cycling”
Her pet peeve: “People who are late and people who smack their lips when they’re eating.”
Social causes that she stands for: “Climate Change. I try to cut back on my use of plastic products and always make it a point to recycle.”
Something interesting about her: “I don’t know how to swim, but I do know how to float backwards on the pool surface.”
How she would describe herself: “Self-driven and motivated”
A song that represents her: “Untitled by RXLZQ”
Someone she looks up to: “My mum because she is a very strong woman and is always there for me. To me, she’s like a sister and a therapist.”
What makes her happy: “Being able to spend quality time with my loved ones.”
The best thing about being young is… “having a lot of opportunities to do what you want to do.”
The worst thing about being young is… “having to stress over school examinations and what the future would bring.”
What excites her most about the future: “Meeting people whom I have yet to meet”
Mirabelle wears Celine by Hedi Slimane cotton tank top, Celine. Clash de Cartier medium pink gold necklace, Cartier
Name: Sajeev Suppiah – “but my family has been calling me Jeev for as long as I can remember so I have almost always introduced myself as such.”
Age: 24
Ethnicity: Indian Singaporean
Agency: Misc Management
How he was discovered: “I’ve spent my whole life dreaming about being a model and after I finished national service in April last year, I reached out to small businesses and young, up-and-coming individuals with a similar passion for fashion to volunteer as a model… They were very encouraging in return and eventually I got noticed and signed to Misc late 2022.”
Why be a model: “I’d like to challenge the ideal of what a male model should look like and show that there is beauty in everyone regardless of his or her identity. I also want to become one of the best versions of minority representation in the business. This is something that I take very seriously and I have made – and will continue to make – substantial changes to my lifestyle to make sure it’s a career that lasts.”
His first modelling job: “My first paid job was for the final-year project of a fashion design graduate from the Raffles College of Higher Education in May this year.”
Jeev wears leather vest, Versace
What he thinks makes a top model: “Resilience, which means being able to take every form of criticism constructively; being able to persevere with hard work; and staying humble while doing so. Just look at Bella Hadid.”
What he thinks is his X-factor: “How I like to play with masculinity and femininity – I genuinely enjoy experimenting with these two extremes and this is reflected in my personality and identity.”
His favourite model: “One of my inspirations today in terms of skills, image and progress is Alton Mason. And he maintains such a masculine look while playing with elements of femininity in different ways.”
If he weren’t a model… “I would be figuring out a way to become one. I don’t like to think about an alternative career for now since I have managed to embark on modelling. Given how much I enjoyed national service and every camp I had been to prior though, being a camp counsellor sounds like a really fun job. That or since I’ve come to love working out and turning it into a lifestyle, a physical trainer!”
His hobbies: “Dance, which has brought me to multiple performance stages and allowed me to meet some of the best, most influential, and passionate people. Another big interest is, of course, working out.”
His pet peeve: “When the edges of a cardboard box rub against each other as you open or close the box. It’s so inconsequential and unintentional, but you can say that that just rubs me the wrong way.”
Jeev wears leather pants, Versace. Top, model’s own
Social causes that he stands for: “Equality regardless of identity, and helping to add to the voices of those in need and those whom I believe deserve to be heard and given a fair shot.”
Something interesting about him: “Growing up, I was never fit or, by any means, an active kid. Until my late teens, I was overweight and had my fair share of being picked on for it. Going from never passing my NAPFA test and hating most forms of exercise to being this physically active and even recognised as an ‘NSMan of the Year’ in 2022 has been nothing short of a surprise to both myself and my parents.”
How he would describe himself: “I am a passionate and driven individual. My goals are almost never apparent to others, but I am always working hard on something.”
A song that represents him: “Wonderwall by Oasis though don’t be surprised if you catch me at a rave in my fishnets because I do also listen to a lot of techno.”
Someone he looks up to: “I don’t have one single person in mind. There is something to learn from almost everyone.”
The best thing about being young is… “how simple life can be as well as the creative freedom to fantasise about how we want our lives to turn out.”
The worst thing about being young is… “being oblivious to the harsh reality of life that awaits us in the future.”
What excites him most about the future: “Oddly enough, I am excited about the uncertainty that the future holds. Rather than planning everything out, I’ve discovered that by adopting a go-with-the-flow mentality, I’ve found so many more ways to overcome unexpected turns and challenges.”
Jeev wears Clash de Cartier medium white gold ring, Cartier
Name: Natasha Fawzi – “My nicknames are Nata de Coco and Fuzzy.”
Age: 23
Ethnicity: “My mum is Chinese and my dad is Malay so I grew up surrounded by both cultures.”
Agency: Now Model Management
How she was discovered: “My dear mum is an alumni and ex-lecturer at Raffles Design Institute – now known as Raffles College of Higher Education – and got me to model for a Raffles Design Graduation and Exhibition show. Through that, I got connected with Now Models’ founder Addie Low, who signed me up in June this year following a casting.”
Why be a model: “Fashion has always been close to my heart since my mum is in the industry – I was lucky to have attended fashion shows when I was just a kid. The first time that I got really interested in modelling though was a few years ago when I started watching fashion shows by top international designers. I fell in love with the runway models’ ability to bring the garments to life and tell the story behind each design with just their walk, gaze and stage presence. As a dancer (she is a professional dancer who also recently started teaching dance to preschool children), I understand how hard it is to convey something without using words. It is even more difficult when you are restricted to simple movements like walking and this made me admire models more and realise that modelling is truly an art form.”
Her first modelling job: “This shoot with Female is my first booking as a professional model.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “You must know who you are as a model: What makes you stand out from the others, and what can you offer that others can’t? It also helps to have a strong personality that shines through in all projects while being adaptable. And it’s always important to be friendly yet professional to everyone so that people will enjoy working with you.”
What she thinks is her X-factor: “Dancing is all about expression and movement, and so is modelling. Given my experience as a professional dancer and having worked in an experimental dance company, I know how to use my body to convey concepts and messages. I also believe in pushing boundaries as that is what both art and high fashion are about.”
Her favourite model: “Shalom Harlow, who got me with her performance in Alexander Mcqueen’s Spring Summer 1999 show (in which her dress was famously spray-painted by two robots in front of the live audience). Her emotional performance told me the story of how humans are becoming more reliant on technology and that maybe one day, technology might take over our jobs. That was how powerful she was on the runway.”
If she weren’t a model… “I want to be a model and that’s it. Yes, I have dance to fall back on, but I want to focus on modelling now and I cannot imagine myself being in any other industry if I am not modelling or dancing.”
Her hobbies: “I love to sing, dance and watch Mukbang videos.”
Her pet peeve: “Never steal my food or throw my food away without my permission. I am absolutely passionate about what I eat and will get very upset if I come back to find it gone.”
Social causes that she stands for: “World peace because even though we are all of different backgrounds, we are all human beings. Why fight when we can learn to love? I try to practise love and kindness with the people I interact with everyday – friends, family and even strangers. It may not be much, but I believe that a little kindness goes a long way. I also feel strongly against animal cruelty. We should love animals and treat them the same way we treat our friends: with love and kindness… I try to help by sharing stories of animal abuse on my social media (@natasha.fawz on Instagram) and I try to educate pet owners when they are not treating their pets right.”
Something interesting about her: “I have super adorable and extremely playful birds at home. I absolutely love them and let them out of the cage to play and fly around every day. They each have very different characters but get along pretty well. They are my babies and I would not trade them for anything else.”
How she would describe herself: “I am always open to new ideas; love to try new things that push the boundaries of what is considered the norm; and I love birds!”
A song that represents her: “Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson”
Someone she looks up to: “Michael Jackson. His performance, stage presence, artistry, and confidence in creating art that he believed in remains unparalleled. He also had a very kind heart.”
What makes her happy: “Singing to my favourite music; jamming with friends; and spending time with my friends, family and birds.”
The best thing about being young is… “that you can make mistakes and not be judged too heavily.”
The worst thing about being young is… “being caught in the middle of teenhood and adulthood.. You feel a need to know more and be more mature yet you also feel like you’re not quite old enough yet.”
What excites her most about the future: “To know that anything can happen and that there are 1001 possibilities. It makes me feel like I can do anything to create my own future.”
Natasha wears cotton velvet jersey hoodie, matching turtleneck and jogger pants, and Anatomic polyester knit boots, Balenciaga
ALL INTERVIEWS HAVE BEEN EDITED FOR CLARITY & BREVITY. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THESE FASHION ENTHUSIASTS, HEAD TO @FEMALESINGAPORE ON TIKTOK
Production Noelle Loh Photography Stefan Khoo Photography Assistants Hizuan & Chong Ng Styling Damian Huang Styling Assistants Danessa Tong & Kalyse Hoo Hair Tan Eng Chong/Kizuki+Lim Makeup Keith Bryant Lee & Rina Sim, using Chanel Beauty Models Mary, Katherine & Mirabelle/Basic Models; Chloe Lau, Sophia Begum & Ally Teo, Mannequin Studio; Dian, Jeev & Dineaish /Misc Management; and Natasha & Mido/Now Model Management
A version of this article first appeared in the August 2023 Youth! Edition of FEMALE