TNP New Face: Turning modelling dreams into careers
The New Paper New Face alumni share how the competition has opened doors for them
She was waitressing part-time at a banquet when she was spotted and was convinced to participate in The New Paper New Face pageant last year.
Despite not having any modelling experience, Miss Shwetaa Rai, 19, clinched the first runner-up title.
The competition transformed her aspiration into ambition.
She recounted how the many opportunities during that period allowed her to strut her stuff and pick up experience.
Said Miss Rai: "We got to try out different outfits and looks, and it was a way for me to explore modelling. I also got a lot of professional advice."
And that has led her to pursue a modelling dream.
Miss Rai will be auditioning for Basic Models Management. She will also model for a friend's boutique line.
"Before, I only had the underlying thought to become a model, now I am considering it as a full-time profession," she said.
South Korean model Sohee Park, 24, initially joined New Face for exposure. She also hoped to make new friends through it. Based in Singapore for modelling stints, she did not have any friends then.
"I wanted to meet new friends. I've kept in touch with some of them until now."
Miss Park is a model with NOW Model Management. She also participated in reality modelling TV show, Korea's Next Top Model in 2013.
FOREIGN FACTOR
On being New Face 2016's second runner-up, she said: "I thought I wasn't going to win anything because I am a foreigner.
"I was surprised and happy, it made me feel more confident about modelling in Singapore."
Miss Kim Min Pei Lam, 23, also developed more confidence and self-awareness during New Face 2016.
She wanted to participate in the four preceding editions but missed out each year as she was always out of town during the audition period.
Last year, she finally managed to make it. And she was crowned the winner.
The freelance model and host said the stint opened many doors for her.
She has modelled for local fashion brand Love, Bonito. It has also opened doors to hosting gigs for event launches.
Miss Kim, who never expected to win, said: "New Face is the biggest modelling competition in Singapore.
"I was really just doing it to have fun, and it was already an achievement to have participated in it."
This year's New Face auditions will be held next Saturday. (See details below).
Miss Kim, who will be present, said interested candidates have been asking her advice on social media.
"I told them not to be nervous about competing with other girls; it is you against yourself and being the best version of yourself," she said.
"Go for the experience, don't shortchange yourself."
Be the next New Face
The New Paper New Face pageant is back for its 25th edition. Here is how you can participate:
WALK-IN AUDITION
- When: Saturday, June 17
- Where: Subaru showroom in Leng Kee Road
- Time: Registration is between 8.30am and 9.30am
Wear a fitted top with a miniskirt or shorts, high heels and light make-up. Bring a close-up photo of yourself for submission.
ONLINE REGISTRATION
- Register at tnp.sg/tnpnewface by June 14.
Selected contestants will go on to Round 2.
PRIZES
- Winner: $10,000 and $2,000 worth of hair services from Kelture Aveda
- 1st runner-up: $5,000
- 2nd runner-up: $3,000
SPONSORS
- Presented by: Subaru Motor Image
- Official make-up sponsor: Cosmoprof Academy
- Official hair salon: Kelture Aveda
- Venue partner: Paragon
- Official radio station: One FM
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
