Young models strutted down the runway in outfits made entirely from recyclable materials at the Oyster Bay Community Hall recently, showcasing both environmental awareness and local talent at the “Recycling 2025” fashion show.
Jesmine Lodewyk, founder of the Oyster Bay Modelling Academy, beamed with pride as she watched her students transform everyday disposable items into fashion-forward creations.
“The outcome was a huge success,” said Lodewyk.
“I had a lot of support from my community, colleagues, and even from The Flame Dance Academy.”
Founded in 2023, the academy aims to build confidence in children from the Oyster Bay area through modelling skills.
This year’s show featured participants in multiple age categories, with impressive results.
According to Lodewyk, Ronell Smit claimed top honours in the u/10 girls’ category, while Zukhanye Ndawo dominated the 10 to 13 age group, and Flowerdine Peer took the crown in the 14 to 17 category.
Lodewyk marvelled at the impressive creativity displayed by participants, noting that their innovative designs and artistic vision exceeded her expectations and filled her with immense pride.
“They were very creative. I was so amazed by the designs and everything they achieved. I’m proud of how they came up with such creative designs,” said Lodewyk.
Despite facing personal challenges, including a sprained foot, she remained focused on the show’s success.
“The most memorable highlight was when they went on stage with their creative dresses. Also, the Flame Dance Academy performances — they’ve really made me proud,” said Lodewyk.
As previously reported, the road to hosting this event wasn’t without obstacles.
After being unable to host the modelling show in 2024 due to financial constraints, Lodewyk had to make significant personal sacrifices to ensure this year’s event could proceed.
“I had to take money out of my own pocket, money that I was supposed to spend on something else. I had to cover everything myself—the rent of the hall, gifts, music, judges, decorations, everything. I was in hospital for almost the entire month of March, so I had to unfortunately use that money from my own income to make sure that the event was a success,” Lodewyk recalled.
Despite these challenges, she remained committed to her vision for the academy and its participants.
“Modelling was always part of my dream. I want our kids, especially from my community, to explore, meet new people, go to different places, and perhaps even be the face of Miss South Africa someday,” said Lodewyk.
“I want to show them that something good can come out of Oyster Bay, even though it seems our dreams are limited by the environment we’re living in. Change can and will happen.”
Looking to the future, Lodewyk has ambitious plans that extend beyond modelling.
She hopes to one day combine the modelling academy with Sea Cadets to invite more boys to participate.
“Starting Sea Cadets here in Oyster Bay would really help our kids with discipline and taking responsibility for their actions,” said Lodewyk.
As the Oyster Bay Modelling Academy continues to grow, she hopes more support will flow in to help sustain this valuable community initiative that’s already transforming young lives one runway at a time.
“Any help would really be appreciated, especially when it comes to modelling and boosting our kids’ confidence,” said Lodewyk.
“We’re trying to get them involved in something that will change their way of thinking.”
Lodewyk said that she is thankful for the assistance she received from Lelo Sana, the owner of Lelo’s Tshisanyama in KwaNomzamo.
“Lelo is my biggest supporter. He always tries his best to make sure everything is sorted within the modelling academy. He has also been my motivator and often encourages me to never stop dreaming and believing,” said Lodewyk.
For those interested in supporting the academy or participating in future events, contact Jesmine Lodewyk on Facebook or WhatsApp at 079 954 1596.
You must be logged in to post a comment.