New Faces: June 2022
written by
Katie Barnes
This June, we welcome New Faces to our Model, Curve, Petite and Classic Divisions.
ELVIRA BAKTEMAN
What made you get into modelling?
"I started modelling when I was 14. I was scouted in a shopping mall to join a modelling competition which I then won along with a contract".
What has been your favourite modelling job so far?
"A bag campaign in southern Italy. I enjoyed it because the production team had rented a vintage car and we drove around to different locations in southern Italy to do different shots. The team was great and it was amazing to explore southern Italy since it was my first time there".
What are your interests/hobbies outside of work?
"Sports, travelling, hikes and adventures. I usually try and do a hike every time I travel somewhere new, even if it's just a small one. One of my best hikes must be in Hawaii, Mount Olomana. Me and my family went there a few years ago over Christmas and did a hike which I really enjoyed both for the views and the company. Me and my boyfriend are planning to go and explore Japan or Costa Rica next year which I'm looking forward to".
BARRY JOHNS
What is your favourite thing about being a model?
"All the jobs I've worked on have been immensely fun. I love it. I've been fortunate to meet loads of amazing, creative people. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it's work, they're that fun. I am a screenwriter and stand up comic, so I guess that's why I gravitate to creative people such as those in production and marketing".
Do you have any other professions outside of modelling?
"I have been a project manager in construction pretty much all my adult life. It has taken me all over the world and I have been involved in some amazing projects. I lived in NYC for 8 years. I was there during 9/11 and was proud to be a part of the team involved in rebuilding during the aftermath".
Do you have any advice for new models?
"Treat every single person on set/location with respect and listen to directions. It makes everyone's job easier. I also find watching what they ask of other models helps me get a sense of what it is the production team are looking for and trying to achieve. That way, when it's my turn in front of the camera I'm better able to help give them what they're looking for. Oh, and have fun....always".
JOY-ANN
What brands/clients have you worked with?
"I’ve worked with some incredible clients over the last few years, but just to mention a few; Jo Malone, Comfort, Stylist Magazine, Facetheory, Noughty, Raid, London Designer Outlet, Evans, Good American and many more".
What has been your favourite modelling job so far?
"This is super hard because I’ve loved them all but if I had to choose one… it would be Jo Malone. I was dressed up as a curvy goddess and I looked phenomenal. I’ve never felt so beautiful!"
What do you like to do outside work?
"I love spending time with those I love the most, whether it’s doing an activity, going for a meal or just spending quality time catching up on life. I also work for an amazing fintech company, can I use the phrase... beauty and brains?"
KIM LYZBA
What made you decide to get into modelling?
"Seeing the growing diversity of the modelling industry in the last couple of years, I felt now was my chance to use my voice to show women that there isn't just one ideal of perfection, 'bikini ready' or body type to be a model. If people saw that more frequently online and in magazines, then I think it opens the world up a little bit more. Especially for young girls flicking through doctored images on Instagram believing they are real. If you want to see a change, I suppose you have to implement it yourself and maybe a domino effect will happen..."
What are your interests outside of work?
"I recently started up my own vintage brand @wearme0utvintage and I source and make clothes. I love painting which I find to be really therapeutic, I also enjoy writing too and I've had a few articles of mine put online by 'Thought Catalog' and 'Hello Giggles'. I like using humour a lot in a creative way to draw people in and then input the message".
What do you love about being represented by Sandra Reynolds Agency?
"There's a real warmth and care with Sandra Reynolds that sometimes isn't always present in the industry. You feel like you're a part of their little family. It's not just about how you look but about who you are as a person".
BEA
DIRK TSAI
CHARLOTTE ROFFEY
GABRIELA GAUZA