Workshop and fashion show offer opportunities for Natives living in Rapid City. PHOTO COURTESY Mildj Native Fashion.
RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA –– For Native people in and around the Rapid City area who are interested in getting into the modeling business, cost can often be a deterrent. One group of aspiring models and agents is looking to bypass that issue and present the opportunity to learn more about the business for a mere fraction of the cost, and with the Native heritage at the forefront. On April 14 and 15, Mildj Native Fashion, Native Dyme Models and Native Warriors will present a workshop, luncheon and fashion show in Rapid City. The events will be held at the Mother Butler Center, located at 221 Knollwood Drive, which is often the site of many Native community events. Beginning at 2 p.m. on April 14, both prospective male and female models will be led through a series of topics. Modeling basics, personal marketing, self-confidence, posing, print, photography and runway conduct are just some of the topics that will focused on. Females are encouraged to wear heels. A non-refundable registration and participation fee of $50 is required upon registration. The workshop and luncheon is open to participants ages 15 and up. “The pricing for the workshop may seem high, but in a regular modeling school, one class could cost up to $200-$300 covering one subject,” said event organizer Katrina Drust. On April 15 the Native Beauties on the Rise Charity Fashion Show will be presented. This semi-formal event is open to the public, with donations being received for various charitable entities. “All proceeds from the fashion show will be donated to two local Native youth programs, the Health Education and Promotion Council and Touch the Cloud LLC,” Drust said. “We want to help encourage our youth towards positive goals and aspirations.” Sponsors include Mildred Carpenter of Mildj Native Fashion, Melissa Carpenter-Bird, owner of Native Dyme Models, and Oglala Lakota College’s student senate. For more information about this event, contact Katrina Drust at (605) 384-9095 or katrina_rosed@hotmail.com. (Contact Karin Eagle at staffwriter2@nsweekly.com)
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