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Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Young, determined, beautiful Jamaican women, who boast the 'It' factor in commanding the global runway, are being sought for the Caribbean's Next Top Model (CNTM), which makes its stop here on Saturday at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, New Kingston.

A casting crew, which has its eyes on 35 territories across the region, is slated to invade the island for the Caribbean's version of the hit reality series, America's Next Top Model, says one of the main local sponsors of the event, Grand Palladium's General Manager Dimitris Kosvogiannis.

Made famous by Tyra Banks, America's Next Top Model, where it all started, has branched out to France, Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, finally making its debut in the Caribbean in July.

On September 17, the casting crew moves to Blue Beat, Gloucester Avenue, Montego Bay, for prospects from the western end of the island. Three representatives will be selected from Jamaica.

"Some of the fashion world's most well-known experts will judge these participants, including Miss Universe 1998 Wendy Fitzwilliam," says Kosvogiannis. He explained that Fitzwilliam, a Trinidadian national, and producers will search to find approximately nine to 14 models from the various Caribbean countries.

According to him, Jamaican models have an opportunity to compete for and to be eligible to receive a grand prize that includes a contract with a modelling agency or management company.

Qualities and virtues

Excited about the partnership with a production that boasts a global audience, the Grand Palladium boss says that from his end his organisation believes that Jamaica combines all the qualities and virtues of a true Caribbean Woman, "and it is our distinct honour and pleasure to participate in the making of Jamaica's new ambassador to the world".

Kosvogiannis, who is also playing the role of celebrity judge, says Jamaica deserves the respect and recognition through its achievements. "Accomplished Jamaicans have and continue to bring a positive light on the island, its culture and people."

The show starts shooting in Trinidad and Tobago on September 26 and will be aired internationally through CBS Television's affiliate, WSEE TV.

"We are looking for models with personality and intelligence, a well-rounded person, from ages 17 to 27. The opportunities are endless," states Marlon Honeygan, one of the casting directors here in Jamaica.

Honeygan, a former Pulse model, states that a number of runway models have moved to higher heights, becoming spokespersons for John Galliano, one of the biggest fashion designers in the world, as well as Karl Lagerfeld, Dior and Chanel.

"Many of them have graced the covers of Harpers Bazaar, Elle, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire and Velvet," noted Honeygan.

He says based on the success of America's Next Top Model, CNTM has the potential of transforming the life of women in the region.