On the 29th March, Born To Model TV (BTMTV) launched its first ever lavish runway show and party in the amazing Bar & Co at Temple Pier. The setting was beside a stunning view of the River Thames with the beautiful night lights overlooking the horizon. AfroCosmopolitan was welcomed into the launch party by the lovely CEO Leo and management team who organised the entire launch party and BTM reality TV series.
The boat was slightly rocking back and forth by the strong wind of that evening. But that did not hinder the amazing vibe and guest appearances of musicians such as Ayo Jordan and girl group Pretty Noise. Our lovely host for the night was Radio presenter Yinka Bokinni.
So what is Born to model all about? I hear you wondering! Born To Model TV is a reality series on the search for the next model who was of course – Born to model! The competition targets women of the African, Caribbean, Hispanic, Asian and Oriental ethnicity aged 18-35 who want to break into the mainstream fashion and modelling world.
Presented by Lauren Cofie, the winner of the competition will win a trip to a European country, a modelling contract and a feature in Women’s UK lifestyle magazine ‘AMOR’. All 8 of the models will be living together in one house for one week with tasks to complete each day.
The BTM Runway
The first collection to be showcased at the launch party was Millionnaire, which has a simple, subtle and edgy city feel. The models showcasing the designs gave the simple but subtle collection a real flavour as we were then aware that both male and females can wear the collection.
The second collection showcased on the night was the Dao London collection – designed by Zainab Dao. When we interviewed Zainab and asked her what inspired her collection pieces, she stated that there is not enough African inspired every-day wear pieces in London. So starting something which can hopefully be noticed by Mainstream media as not only traditional wear but can be worn on a daily occurrence, influenced her for fresh ideas.
The night wouldn’t have been complete without a networking session and a glass of bubbly. We met singer/songwriter Indiana Ifill whose blonde afro we couldn’t stop crushing on! We had a great chat with Radio presenter and host of the night Yinka whose tattoos looked stunning!
Born To Model TV Series1 Episode 1 airs in the summer time so keep your eyes peeled for behind the scenes footage up until then.
Sade with Radio Presenter & Host of the night, Yinka.
Photos taken by Sade