Trish Carmen ‘Xposed’

Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Top designer and fashionista Trish Carmen, who had relocated to KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, is back in Zimbabwe to re-launch her modelling agency and school.
The agency, called Xposed, will provide Zimbabwean models with international exposure and exchange programmes while the school, the Trish Carmen Modelesque, will offer grooming and deportment to newbies.

“It is actually a re-launch of my career in Zimbabwe since I made a name here in the late 90s. I owe a lot to Zimbabwe and this is the time. The school will offer lifestyle skills, runway and commercial modelling and deportment, among others,” she said.

She has been living in KZN since 2010 and says there was need to set up an agency in Harare because a lot was happening in the modelling sector.

“I have been in and out the country and saw something which made me think twice about the industry. Zimbabwean models lack seriousness, grooming and creativity.

“This is further worsened by some agencies which use girls to create their opportunities while shunning the models. Some modelling agencies are making money out of models without doing enough so that is where my agency and school come in,” she said.

She said Zimbabwe was full of talented and beautiful girls who lack exposure and proper grooming.

“I am going to set up my studios somewhere in Harare close to town. It’s not that we are failing to make it because there are no beautiful girls but its the exposure and proper etiquette,” she said. The mother of one said she believes every girl deserves a chance.

“In weeks to come I am going to scout for girls from the ghetto who have a passion for modelling.

“Think of Oluchi and Naomi Campbell; how they were discovered. I won’t be selective but I believe that in the ghetto that’s where talent is,” she said.

Carmen said her coming back was a big break not only for the industry but Zimbabwe at large.

“I have gained a lot while in South Africa and I think I can use one or two tips to boost the industry. Modelling itself can develop a nation if taken seriously, especially in tourism. I have been in talks with Nigerian model Oluchi Onweabga of the Africa’s Next Top Model and discussed how Zimbabwean models can be involved.

“So that’s where we are going to start networking with other renowned agencies,” she said.

Trish said she would continue running her businesses in South Africa, although she was now based in Harare. Asked on how she sees Zimbabwean fashion scene, Trish said she was happy Zimbabwe was not lagging but instead moving with the trends. She said dressing was a true reflection of oneself.

“There is lack of creativity and I am happy people are embracing fashion. The only problem is identity and style. Why not promote our local brands rather than those brands we fancy about,” she said.

Trish said appreciation and financial constraints were major challenges in the industry.

“We should support the modelling industry. There are some loopholes in the industry and I urge stakeholders to appreciate that the industry can develop.

“I am happy that I got sponsorship from KZN Fashion Council for my fashion and modelling career.

“I also showcased at the South African fashion week, where I was picked among the top seven designers in South Africa,” she said.

Trish was also nominated as national director for Miss Global International South Africa pageant and has done several magazine covers and photo-shoots.