She’s only 11 but local model Gizelle Ahlers is poised to take to the catwalk on Sunday at New York Fashion Week (NYFW).
The Mossel Bay-based tween has a busy showbiz career. She has filmed a series of TV commercials for clothing retailer Pepkor and collaborated with renowned US vocalist and songwriter Nate Butler on a song, Talk About It, to be released next month.
But it was a chance encounter two months ago with Amelia Tu, Canada’s entrant in this year’s Miss Universe contest, that has given her the opportunity to fulfil her modelling dream.
“When I was at the International Modelling & Talent Association conference in New York in July, I was honoured to come second runner-up for model of the year with nine medals,” Gizelle told the Sunday Times.
“Amelia Tu reached out to me to model in her upcoming show.”
Tu, who spells her design label with an additional “u”, is excited to debut the new collection at NYFW.
She was impressed by Gizelle’s maturity, leadership qualities and confidence.
“Gizelle’s confidence at 11 years old caught my eye and made her stand out from others,” said Tu. “I clearly remember her taking the lead of some of the younger children in our dress rehearsal and being unafraid to come up to ask me questions about myself and my brand.”
On Sunday at noon in New York, Gizelle will be on the runway to model items from a formal collection featuring a group of five designers — including Tu — in a global fashion collective.
The presentation is part of a growing number of auxiliary capsule showcases organised at the same time as NYFW that focus on upcoming designers from diverse backgrounds.
Just follow your dreams and do your best
— Gizelle Ahlers
Gizelle’s career has blossomed since signing a contract with 33 and Me talent agency at the International Arts Talent Showcase (IATS) last year, with a variety of projects from modelling to roller-skating and dirt biking.
The agency's chair and CEO Elsubie Verlinden said: “Gizelle might be young, but her commitment and focus in the industry is outstanding. She has a fighting spirit and puts in the work and preparation.”
Gizelle is homeschooled. Her mother, Rhuda Brummer, has been the “momager” behind the scenes and accompanies the runway starlet on her overseas trips and to competitions and events.
“I go with her to all of her castings, workshops and interviews — and as I used to be a hairdresser, I also do her hair, help her with her outfits, and assist with her makeup, though she has started to do her own makeup,” said Brummer.
“I’m excited and honoured for the opportunity to walk in NYFW,” Gizelle said.
“Just follow your dreams and do your best — my talent and your talent might be different, but we must respect each other for the paths we take and find beauty in our own style.”
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