Latest news with #TopModel


Daily Record
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Model mum who launched first ever festival for single parents takes 'special community' nationwide
Elaine Harris - who was previously a finalist in the UK's Top Model competition - came up with the concept for her one parent family festivals during Covid, with her first held on the outskirts of her hometown of Dundee. A model mum who launched the first ever festival for single parents has seen her 'special community' go nationwide with a string of events. Elaine Harris - who was previously a finalist in the UK's Top Model competition - came up with the concept for her one parent family festivals during Covid, holding her first on the outskirts of her hometown of Dundee. But the event proved so popular that families were travelling hundreds of miles to be there, so the 44-year-old, a single mum to Nina, 12, and Faith, eight, is now holding five events across Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales. And more than 700 families have now attended her festivals in just a few years. Elaine said: 'When I started the festivals four years ago, I never imagined that within that time over 700 families would have attended and it would now be nationwide. 'We are a social family but have struggled in the past to find non commercial, family friendly events where costs don't spiral with all the add ons. 'After speaking to other single parents a lot of them admitted that they have not holidayed on their own before, as they have worried about being sat on their own while others were in groups. This is where the idea for Single Parent Festivals was born - a festival where all activities are included in the ticket, there are no vendors and we keep the price as low as we can for everyone.' Elaine is a former catwalk star for major designers and was a finalist in Top Model UK 2014, but she has dedicated much of her spare time in recent years to charity. Before Covid hit, she set up and ran a pop up dental and optical clinic in Cape Verde which helped more than 1,300 children. She took on a string of epic events to fund the mission, cycling solo from John O Groats to Lands End and even making an epic journey to Australia from her house with no money through 15 countries in just 10 days. But when the UK was plunged into lockdown she decided she wanted to do something to help single families like hers. According to One Parent Families Scotland, there are 144,000 single parent families across the country, making up 25% of all families with dependent children. She said: 'I came up with the concept because there were many families struggling during Covid and more so single parent families who didn't have the support. 'I thought it would just be local people when I started it but we soon found people were travelling big distances to come to them. Mums were coming up on the Megabus from London because there was nothing else around.' Last year Elaine branched out into two sites in England and this year she will host events in South Wales and Northern Ireland for the first time. The camping festivals take place over five nights, with morning clubs and creches for kids of all ages included in the price, while parents can relax or try an activity themselves, from bushcraft to reiki. A string of afternoon events, from story telling to laser tag, are also planned, along with musical performances from local musicians and other entertainment running into the evening. Families have the option of a pre-pitched tent and kit to make their stay easier and food is also offered at affordable prices. There's also a dedicated camping spot for families with additional needs, such as autism and ADHD. Elaine said the stress-free approach to holidaying is what makes families return year after year, with up to 100 families attending single events. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. She said: 'We want to take away as much stress as we can from parents so not only kids but adults can enjoy themselves to the max. 'The festival is a way of bringing everyone together and means everyone is in the same situation so it's easier for people to chat away and make friends. We are already building an online community of people who are attending this year's festival - a place where people can get to know others before they arrive.' The Scottish leg of the festival will be held at Douglaswood near Monikie from July 11. Other events will follow in Omagh, Northern Ireland, between July 22-27, in Surrey, south east England, between August 2 and 7, Vale of Glamorgan, in Cardiff, South Wales, between August 12 and 17 and in Leigh, Staffordshire, between August 22 and 27. And the mum, who is single-handedly managing all of the events, says she hopes her venture will only get bigger. She said: 'I do have a team once we're on site now but in the run up it's just me at the moment. I do as much as I can myself to keep the price down. The kids only pay £70 for the week. 'I'm expecting to double our numbers for next year as well. 'The overall goal, once it's on a big enough scale, will be to funnel money so I can continue with the clinic in Africa. But at the moment the focus is on making the festivals as successful as possible.'


Time of India
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Adrianne Curry shows tough reality behind her America's Next Top model victory; all you need to know
, America's Next Top Model's very first winner, is giving us the tea on the reality of her legendary win—and it's far cry from the glittering fantasy that people thought. On the June 3 episode of Just B with Bethenny Frankel, the 42-year-old model-turned-recluse spoke candidly about the failed promises, financial non-reward, and her lengthy path to finally moving on. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "My season of Top Model, I was the lone winner who won no money. Zero dollars," Curry revealed to Frankel, who was shocked by the admission. Curry achieved stardom in 2003 as the winner of Cycle 1 of ' model competition show, which enthralled millions with hopes of transforming normal young women into supermodels. However, according to Curry, things were far from how they were presented on TV. "There was no money in my win. I won a title," she went on, explaining that although the show promoted a Revlon campaign as part of the grand prize during production, that segment was eliminated from the final product broadcast on TV. Although Curry did ultimately make $15,000 from Revlon, she maintains the experience made her feel cheated. She also got a contract with Wilhelmina Models but asserted in a 2017 blog entry that the agency released her once the show changed to IMG Models for its second season. Wilhelmina refuted Curry's allegations in 2023 through a statement by VP Ray Lata: Two decades ago, Wilhelmina had various owners and employees. Wilhelmina is today a publicly owned company. It does not appear there would be enough incentive to injure Tyra and not seek to optimize a model's earning potential." Nevertheless, Curry asserts that the real prize she emerged with wasn't a lucrative modeling career—but merely a title. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "Tyra [Banks] was saying we're gonna be this giant Revlon-type superstar. Because I don't think any of us would have struggled as hard as we did for what the award actually was—which is the title," Curry said. "So I always tease because people are like, 'You still refer to yourself as America's Next Top Model?' I'm like, it's the only f—— thing I won. I'm gonna put it on my tombstone." When 54-year-old Bethenny Frankel inquired whether Curry had felt a need to join in on the online criticism of Tyra Banks amidst the 2020 "reality reckoning" tide—when videos from ANTM re-emerged featuring contentious challenges such as "race-swapping" photo shoots—Curry replied that she deliberately avoided it. What's actually funny is everybody needed me to dog pile on Tyra Banks when 2020 was going on and everybody was getting angry," she remembers. "And I'm like, no, because if anybody has a right to be angry with her, it's me. And I'm done. I don't care anymore. What she taught me was the reality of entertainment. Curry long ago parted ways with the fashion and public eye. But through this honest interview, she paints a grim portrait of the unseen realities reality television stars endure—even the winners. Her account joins the list of voices calling for greater reality TV transparency, accountability, and equity.


GMA Network
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Krishnah Gravidez's standout style moments ahead of Miss World 2025 coronation night
The Philippines' Krishnah Gravidez has been serving stylish and crown-worthy looks ever since she arrived in India for this year's Miss World competition. Her dreamy princess blue gown for the Talent Competition finals and the meaningful Palawan peacock-pheasant-inspired jumpsuit for the Top Model portion were definite highlights, but there were plenty more moments worth a double take. Here are some of the Filipina beauty queen's most striking looks ahead of the much-anticipated coronation night. —CDC, GMA Integrated News


The South African
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg shines at Miss World
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg, the radiant Miss World South Africa, captured the hearts of the nation during the Top Model and Designer of the World competitions. Her journey has been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing not only her beauty but also her poise, intelligence, and passion for South African culture. From the outset, Zoalize impressed judges and audiences alike with her confidence and grace on the runway. In the Top Model segment, she stood out with her impeccable style and commanding presence. Each step she took was a testament to her dedication and hard work. 'Walking the runway is about more than just looking good,' Zoalize shared. 'It's about telling a story and representing the spirit of South Africa with pride.' Her words resonated deeply with many, reflecting her commitment to being a role model for young South Africans. The Designer of the World competition further highlighted Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg's versatility. She donned exquisite outfits that celebrated South Africa's rich heritage and vibrant fashion scene, according to Woman and Home. The designers she worked with brought forward bold, colourful creations that blended traditional motifs with modern flair. Zoalize's ability to carry these designs with elegance and authenticity was a key factor in her success. 'Wearing these designs makes me feel connected to our roots,' she explained. 'It's a privilege to showcase our culture on such a prestigious platform.' Her achievements have not only elevated her status but also shone a spotlight on South African talent in the global arena. Zoalize's journey is a reminder of the power of perseverance and passion. She has become a beacon of hope for aspiring models and designers across the country. The Miss World pageant, with its rigorous standards and fierce competition, demands more than just beauty. It requires intelligence, social awareness, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg embodies all these qualities. Her dedication to charitable causes and community upliftment projects has been particularly commendable. She has used her platform to advocate for education and women's empowerment, issues close to her heart. Despite her remarkable presence and winning the World Designer Award for Africa, Zoalize did not advance into the final placements or the top 40 of the global competition Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg's Miss World journey in India was a powerful showcase of South African values and determination. As the nation rallies behind her, Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg continues to inspire. Her story is one of talent, determination, and the celebration of South African identity. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Tyra Banks and Boyfriend Louis Bélanger-Martin Are Talking Marriage: ‘They Were Made For Each Other'
Beauty icon Tyra Banks is so thrilled with her life in Australia with businessman-beau Louis Bélanger-Martin, insiders say she's talking about finally tying the knot after more than five years together. 'Louis isn't like any other guy Tyra has partnered with before,' says an insider. 'Sure, he's cool and successful and interesting, but he's also emotionally available — he wears his heart on his sleeve, and he's very open and public about how much he wants to spend the rest of his life with Tyra.' The 51-year-old former America's Top Model host moved Down Under in 2023 with Louis and 9-year-old York, her son from her previous relationship with Erik Asla — and she's been loving every minute of it. According to a source, they might exchange vows on the beach in Sydney with friends and family. 'If Louis had his way, they'd just elope tomorrow, but Tyra is so methodical and picky about everything, it's never going to be that simple,' says the insider. 'The fact that Louis is so patient with doing things Tyra's way and letting her be the leader in the relationship just goes to show that they were made for each other.' The onetime Sports Illustrated Swimsuit covergirl and her business-partner boyfriend plan to open a big plant for her Smize & Dream ice cream brand in Sydney. Tyra was Down Under when her Malibu home was destroyed in the January fires and hasn't publicly stated whether she will rebuild the house or not. Adds the insider: 'Perhaps they will eventually come back to L.A. They have a lot of contacts and friends who already miss them, but Australia is their home now. It's where they want to be.'