Strutting into ‘ modelling classes with Thanolo’
Imparting modelling skills and knowledge
The newly established modelling agency dubbed, ‘ Modelling classes with Thanolo’, is an offspring of Thanolo Keutlwile, arising from her exposure to a good start in the world of modelling, in which she has managed to secure herself outstanding positions on a variety of fashion shows. She was nominated the best model for 2019 presidential competitions, best model 2018 and 2019 for Fashion Without Borders and the formerly Masa Fashion Square Hotel fashion shows.
All these remarkable spots, she says, have built confidence in her and allowed her to keep on going. She has also participated in several shows locally, and pockets an international platform experience through the commonly known Africa Fashion International Fashion Weeks 2018 and 2019. She thus has been dressed by different local fashion houses including; Amantle, Serge and Tebo, Delayna Scott, Kanyo Molale, David Billbord, Samuel Ngwenya, and Raymond Geoffrey.
When she looks back to these achievements, she says, she foresees a brighter future in Botswana’s modelling industry. “Having been through a busy schedule over the years, and being exposed to bigger stages of modelling, I have observed that indeed Botswana is a country of diamonds, and that its people are diamonds too. I believe in models of this country and that given a chance, they can represent the country internationally,” she says.
However, she tells BG Style that she has observed that a lot of local models have the potential but still hide inside a shell. “Some are shy, while others fear stages, or lack knowledge on where to show off their talent.
“I have therefore vowed to breach these boundaries by forming Modelling Classes with Thanolo,” she says. Through these special modelling classes, she explores different characters and aims at unleashing their full potential.
She explains that this comes with a lot of responsibilities but she is prepared to give each of her models enough time to become models of higher standard. “We focus on personal development, financial freedom, as well as basics of living,” she says, emphasizing that the project aims at empowering the young ladies and young girls to believe in themselves and be independent. The main services in the modelling classes include; polishing model walks, posing skills, communication skills and dressing up the right way.
They work hand in hand with a local photographer, Goitseone Mokonopi of Eagle Digital Photography for their photoshoots. Keutlwile says that good photography is vital in the modelling field, as it could expose one to the international landscape. She has been inspired by local top models such as Kaone Kario and Mmina Gaebonwe, and says that she also aspires to reach that level one day.