teenLook #1 - June 2019 - Daniella Wackerhagen

teenLook
canada's fashion magazine
june 2019
style
avenue salons
hair & makeup
cover
beauty
makeup artist
april flores
talayna
ekelund
Daniella
Wackerhagen
Dara
Eckel
interview
with a former
teen model
model development

teenLOOK Issue 1
june
models
models
8 Brooklyn
Katrina 60
12 Dakota
Emily 65
16 Isabel
Maddie D 70
24
Bryce
Gabrielle
74
28 Dominique
Danny 80
32 Tyson
Milana 88
44 Meeghan
Paul 92
48 Summer
Natasha 96
56 Maddie L
Ayden 100

contents
fashion
Hair made right
Avenue Salons
36
6
68
Editor's letter
beauty
Skin care
made easy with
April Flores
on the cover
Daniella Wackerhagen
Our featured Cover girl
for June 2019
38
features
20
52
From dirtbikes to
runways. An interview
with former teen model
Dara Eckel (Main)
Miss Teen Canada,
Talayna Ekelund
Her heartbreak
illness and recovery.
84
Model development
Walk the Talk
Get prepared for your
Career

Welcome to Teen Look!
Here it is! Issue one has debuted and what an
exciting journey this has been. Exciting, yet a
somewhat stressful one, but definitely worth
every moment spent getting here. Being the new
magazine on the scene is definitely not an easy
task. Only by the overwhelming support of parents,
the teen models showcased here and also along
with the local businesses, did this journey become
a successful one. I want to thank everyone that put
their faith and trust in seeing this publication being
put together. I truly hope that you all will enjoy
the magazine. I want to say a huge thank you to
Dara and Christine from Walk the Talk. With their
support and vote of confidence, many more people
learned of this project and what I was putting
together.
My goal in this issue and for the many more to
come, is to shine the light on the talented and
upcoming teen models. I hope to create a showcase
of all the talent involved in creating the images
shown. To also create an avenue for more artists,
photographers and models to come together and
connect, no matter where they might be in this
TEEN LOOK MAGAZINE
website :
teenlook.ca
Instagram: @ teen_look_magazine
Email us : info@teenlook.ca
Facebook : Teen Look Magazine
For Teen Look Magazine
James Goodwin
desirefilmstudios.ca

Take your modeling career to the next level
with model development courses.
- boost your confidence and develop your personal image
- gain skills
- learn how the industry works
- professional portfolio shoot
www.walkthetalkcourses.ca

B
brook
PHOTO -ANDREW MACLEOD
GECKO-PHOTO

I am 13 years old and in
grade 7. I started modelling
about a year ago, Andrew
was the photographer for
my first few photoshoots.
He helped me create the
beginning of my portfolio,
and get other photographers
interested in working with me.
I haven’t been doing this long,
but it is so much fun and such
a great experience.
For fun, I like to hang out
with my friends and playing
soccer. I’m on a soccer team
with my best friend and other
girls from my school. Some of my
hobbies are art, Soccer, writing and
Singing.
Brooklyn Lukoni
lyn

PHOTO -ANDREW MACLEOD
GECKO-PHOTO

PHOTO -ANDREW MACLEOD
GECKO-PHOTO

D
dak
PHOTO - CRYSTAL TSANG
MUA - MAKEUPBYPROPEARL

Dakota has been in dance since
she was 3 years old. Her favourite
type of dance is Hip Hop. This past
year her interests have evolved to
incorporate modelling and school
sports in her life. She has an awesome
personality and a passion to strive
for greatness. She is the oldest of 5
kids, she has 2 Brothers and 2 sisters.
Dakota always does her best to set a
great example for her younger siblings.
From working hard to get good grades in
school, even helping around the house and
including her siblings as much as she can.
She has a passion for reading, art and
works hard at all that she does. Dakota
hopes to continue with modelling
and sports in her life and grow from
each and every experience. She
wishes everyone love and happiness.
dakotajewel07
ota
handfield
Photo - Crystal Tsang
mua - makeupbypropearl

PHOTO -ANDREW MACLEOD
GECKO-PHOTO
MUA - BEAUTY BY ZENNA

PHOTO - CRYSTAL TSANG
MUA - MAKEUPBYPROPEARL

I
isab
PHOTO - CHRIS MARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet Isabel, a petite 15-year-old
beauty with stunning hazel green
eyes and blonde hair. Although
born in Montreal Qc, Isabel moved
to Sherwood Park at the age of 1
and calls this area home. Isabel has
been involved in dance for 8 years
with a particular love for hip hop.
When not at dance or in school,
Isabel loves reading, music and the
outdoors! Isabel is a graduate of
the Walk the Talk course. Beyond
building up her confidence, this
course fostered so many friendships
and incredible opportunities.
From signing with Flair Talent
Agency to being an invited model
for Jason Davis Photography at
RAW Edmonton to walking in the
Thrive Fashion Show, she is excited
isabel_yegmodels
el
stead

PHOTO - KEVIN TUONG
MUA- BEAUTY BY ZENNA

PHOTO - JASON DAVIS
MUA - NIC BEAUTÉ
HAIR BY A.RAEBEAUTY

teenLOOK feature
Dara Eckel
Interview with an
International teen model

Recently Teen Look editor, Mr. G sat down for
coffee and a candid conversation about teen
modeling with Dara Eckel (Main)
Dara shot to stardom at the age of 14 in 2007 when
she was discovered by Elmer Olson at an audition for
Canada's Next top model at WEM.
TL Thank you for taking the time to meet
today, Dara.
Dara It's my pleasure, James. I appreciate
what you are doing with the magazine and
am excited to participate.
TL I'm looking forward to hearing
more about your experiences as a teen
model. How old were you when you first
considered modeling and what brought the
decision on?
Dara I was 12 and I saw that Mode
Modeling had put on a talent search for
models. I was encouraged to try out, so I did.
I was so under-dressed, wearing jeans and
a tee-shirt (laughing) Everyone else was in
heels and fashion wear.
TL You had no clue what you were getting
yourself into, did you?
Dara (Laughing more) I was a tomboy
riding dirt bikes at home, I didn't follow
any trends or designs. So, yeah, I was a bit
unprepared for what happened next.
TL How did you do?
Dara I placed third and received a
contract and photo-shoot with Mode.
TL They obviously saw something in
you that shone through without you even
trying!
Dara My personality is pretty laid back
and not much phases me. I just went with
the flow!
TL So this led to your
first international shoot?
Dara Yes, I went to
New York to shoot with V
Magazine
TL Wow, that's amazing,
and at 12 years old. What
did that lead to?
Dara Well, because I
was restricted to a contract
Photo credits: placed
here....
with Mode for three years, I had to remain
exclusive to them. So basically I could only
watch but not participate in events unless I
was contracted to do so.
TL That's exactly what happened with
the Next Top Model search, right?
Dara (Laughing) Yeah, I was there to
watch some friends that were involved and
was approached by Elmer Olson's assistant
TL Dressed as a regular teen, watching
and still you were spotted by Elmer Olsen?
Dara He must have seen me in the
crowd, and the event actually was put on
hold for a short time because he
personally wanted to meet
me. It was quite a trip!
TL Talk about being
in the right place at the
right time!
Dara Totally! We
had to do a bit of legal
work to get out of my
existing contract, but
it happened and I was
exclusive with Elmer
Olson in Toronto.
TL So tell me
how did this lead
to Paris?
Dara At the
Boot Camp to
Big Time event
I was scouted by
every agency that attended.
I chose IMG because of the coverage they
offered.
Photo
TL You moved there with your mom. credits:
How was that experience?
placed
Dara It was so much fun, but also so here....
much work! I was dedicating most of my
time to modeling and work. I didn't have
much down time to see the sights (laughing)
Even my down time was devoted to exercise
and meal planning.

TL And not to mention that you still had
to keep up with your studies in school,
right?
Dara Oh, of course. I was still keeping
up with school via correspondence courses.
Actually, when I had the opportunity I also
got ahead by taking summer school to free
more time later.
TL You definitely had the right personality
and drive for this career path. Were there
any downsides to living and working like
this?
Dara The hardest part of the industry
would have to be the weight and size controls
forced upon you. I was 6'1" at this time, so
yeah (laughing) I had quite a few struggles
staying within the tolerances!
TL Obviously you were very successful
regardless.
Dara I was very fortunate and lucky I
think to have my unique look and personality.
That's what kept me busy!
TL So after you finished in Paris, you
moved to Toronto when you were 16-17 to
continue your career?
Dara Yeah, I had so much support from
my mom and family. The Agency was also
like a second family to me, so it wasn't as
hard as it sounds!
TL You had quite a run with your career
and the future most likely looked even
brighter, but you decided to retire at 18.
Can you share a bit about that?
Dara As much fun as it sounds, there still
is a tremendous pressure you have to live
with everyday. The discipline of exercise and
food management was extremely rigorous. I
had people following and reporting if I ate or
drank something off limits.
TL You had food spies watching?
Dara (laughing) It sounds like something
from a movie, but yeah, A hot chocolate with
whip cream was a crime!
The other big change happened when my
grandfather passed away. I was fortunate
enough to be home when the time came. That
was one of the biggest factors for me, my family.
I wanted to be back with my family again.
TL I'm very sorry to hear that. I agree,
having strong family bonds is the most
important thing.
Dara Very true. One of my top pieces of
advice when I mentor young models today is
to have strong support from your parents and
keep your family a priority. Being a teen model
is a very overwhelming experience and there
are many difficult choices to make. It's not
something you can do on your own.
TL That's very sound advice. Do you have
any final thoughts you want to share?
Dara I have too much I want to share
(laughing) That's why I love the fact that I have
put together the Walk the Talk course to help
upcoming teen models! If I could go back, I
would have developed myself in a freelance
market; you do not have to sign with the first
agency you are approached by. Signing doesnt
make you a "model" it just means you are in a
contract and possibly limited to other potential
work.
I think a great bit of advice that I can share
that relates to me personally is, You don't have
to be fashionable to be a model. Be original
and unique.
TL Thats sounds a lot like what you did,
One day riding dirt bikes and then the next,
walking the runway. It doesn't get more
original and unique than that!
Dara Exactly!
Photo credits: placed
here....

Photo credits: placed
here....
Dara Eckel (Main) is the co-founder of Walk the Talk,
a modelling development course aimed to teach fashion
modeling style and techniques and to mentor upcoming
talent. She is married with two boys and resides
in Sherwood Park, AB.
Photo credits: placed
here....

B
bry
PHOTO - CINDY COUTURE

Bryce is presently
12 years of age.
Having danced in most
disciplines from the age
of 3 - present, modelling
became an interest she
often spoke of.
With this interest, she
attended the Walk the
Talk course with Dara and
Christine in November
of 2018 ...which ignited
her passion for the
modelling industry.
Since that time
she has taken a runway
course with them and
remains in close contact for
guidance.
ce
jameson
bryce.jameson_model

PHOTO - LIGHTANDSHADOWS_PHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

D
domin
PHOTO - CRYSTAL TSANG

Hello!! My name is Dominique
and I am 14 years old. I started
modelling in 2018. I always have
loved posing in front of the camera,
dressing up and giving my family
fashion shows. Many people that are
important and close to me suggested
I try modelling, and there I was, at
my first photo shoot. I feel like every
girl wants to be a model, and I’m so
thankful for everyone that’s been here
for me and has gotten me where I am!!
I love modelling with all my heart and
hope I can continue for a long time.
Outside of modelling, I play club
volleyball. I also did rhythmic gymnastics
for almost 10 years! I took home the
gold medal at Canadian Westerns!! I
love modelling because it’s not only fun,
but it teaches you about having a good
work ethic! You're constantly around all
different types of people, and I believe it
is amazing to meet and talk to everyone.
Everyone is so sweet and supporting in
this community, and I am beyond glad I
can be part of it.
dominiquekachkann
ique
kachan

PHOTO - CRYSTAL TSANG

PHOTO - CHRIS MARKER PHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - KASSY ROSE MAKEUP ARTISTRY

T
PHOTO - TERRY JOHNSONty

Tyson is 15 years old
and an extremely established
dancer. In the spring of 2018, Tyson
performed his hip hop solo live on
Telemiracle, a televised provincial
fundraiser where he raised over $1000
by selling cookies he had baked. In the
summer of 2018, Tyson travelled to both
Los Angeles and New York, as a recipient
of multiple dance scholarships earned
throughout the competition season. This
summer, Tyson will be training at the
Harbour Dance Center in Vancouver for
their summer intensive, as well as Paris as
the recipient of a summer dance scholarship.
In the fall of 2018, Tyson took a risk by
reaching outside his comfort zone to
learn about modelling. Completing the
"Walk the Talk" Model Development
Course helped Tyson to gain confidence
in the modelling world. With several
modelling auditions under his belt, Tyson
feels like he has the skills to pursue more
opportunities, and perhaps have a future
in the industry. Having started with simple
intentions to enrich his life and provide a
creative outlet for his life experiences, he
has decided to see how far his dreams can
take him. With his focussed resolve and
work ethic, Tyson’s future looks bright!
“Seize the day and never give up. Take
advantage of every opportunity you are
given. Show gratitude and enjoy the ride…
you never know where it will take you!”
tyson_grismer
son
victor grismer

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

teenLOOK feature
style
VENUE SALONS
Avenue Salons is a rejuvenated way of getting salon
treatment. Our salons emphasize the experience of the customer,
with some of the best stylists in the country working specifically
for you! With our partnership with Aveda we have access to
the best hair treatments that are designed to strengthen and
preserve your natural, beautiful hair. Aveda also uses sustainable
processes, allowing their products to be environmentally friendly
and safe! Aveda also provides training for all of our stylists,
ensuring your experience at our salons will be the best yet!

Teen Look editor, Mr. G shares the experience of
shooting the cover feature with Danilla Wackerhagen
The start of a perfect day began with a cup of coffee and a quick breakfast
from Tim Hortons. How else could it start? I then met up with Sherri
(Daniella's mom) and Daniella at South Edmonton common. Seeking
the fresh look that would be the cover and feature for the magazine,
we ended up finding a cute ensemble at Garage clothing. Then at Aldo,
we matched trendy white flats to complete the outfit. I was starving
by this point and knew we needed a fast lunch before we got into the
prep work for the rest of the day. Ricky's was a tasty choice for
yet, the second breakfast of the day! The appointment booked
with Avenue Salons was fast approaching so we were off
again.
The atmosphere at Avenue
Salons was warm and
inviting. Everyone had a
smile on their face and
Jamila got us set up quickly
and easily for Daniella's
hair treatment and style.
Pamela was professional
and experienced. She
did a wonderful job,
but her work was quickly tousled by
the wind later on! The
Spring winds were
strong that day.
Next, Grace lent her
talents and make-up
savvy to apply a very
clean natural feel to
complete the look.
We spent a few hours
ascending the stairs in the
River Valley. All the while
fending off all manners of
stair athletes and acrobatics. Actually, they were all very
courteous to us, politely waiting for me to take the shot. We
then spent some time on the High Level Bridge; people love
to toot their horn as they pass during a photo shoot! Lastly, we
wandered about the Legislature grounds, taking in the beauty offered.
Competition was fierce for prime shooting space as there were no less
than 5 wedding parties in attendance along with
numerous other photographers seeking the perfect
shot. It was a fabulous time and we captured many
amazing shots. That is, when Daniella's hair wasn't
blowing in her face and she wasn't distracted by the
ants. In all seriousness, the day really was perfect.
The wind created the drama and smiles. The slight
cloud cover created a wonderful soft light. As
always, Sherri was my lighting assistant, she really
is getting quite good at it too!
I am very pleased and honoured to present Daniella
as our cover girl for the debut issue of teenLOOK
and offer my sincerest gratitude to Mona Grewal,
owner of Avenue Salons for being a part of this.
AVENUE SALONS.COM
MUA - GRACE
Pamela Cabanas making the
hair perfect!
PAMELA CABAÑAS
Grace applying the natural
look for our photo shoot.

danie
PHOTO - JAMES GOODWIN
HAIR - PAMELA CABAÑAS
MUA - GRACE
cover girl
teenLOOK

The thoughts of being a model
never even occurred to 13-yearold
Daniella Wackerhagen when
she applied at Patti Falconer Agency
last June. Her hopes would be that she
would get signed and proceed down an
acting path. That path quickly changed
after she did her first photo shoot in
September. She quickly realized this was
the direction she wanted to go. In the
months that followed, she has done a few
photo shoots, competed at Faces West in
Vancouver and became a published model.
Through it all though, the most
important part of this journey for
Daniella is meeting all of the amazing
photographers, makeup artists, hair
stylists and fellow aspiring models all
while building lifelong friendships.
What does the future hold for her?
Runway, Commercial or Editorial? For
Daniella, it doesn’t matter as long as she
can inspire people and continue to find
herself along the way.
daniella_wackerhagen
lla
wackerhagen

PHOTO - JAMES GOODWIN
HAIR - PAMELA CABAÑAS
MUA - GRACE

PHOTO - JAMES GOODWIN
HAIR - PAMELA CABAÑAS
MUA - GRACE

PHOTO - JAMES GOODWIN
HAIR - PAMELA CABAÑAS
MUA - GRACE

PHOTO - JAMES GOODWIN
HAIR - PAMELA CABAÑAS
MUA - GRACE

meeg
PHOTO - CLAIRE EDWARDS
MUA - MEEGHAN BROWN

Hello, my name is Meeghan Brown I’m 15
years old and I reside in Brantford ON.
I am the middle child with two other
siblings. I’m your typical teenage
girl who loves to hang out with
my boyfriend, friends, listen to
music and play video games.
I have a passion for makeup,
fashion, hairstyles and
the camera. I am very
artistic and my favourite
colour is green. I am a
strong believer that
positive thoughts
create positive
outcomes.
meeghan.brown
han
brown

PHOTO - CLAIRE EDWARDS
MUA - MEEGHAN BROWN

PHOTO - CLAIRE EDWARDS
MUA - MEEGHAN BROWN

summ
PHOTO - BRANDY BASTURA

This is Summer-Dawn
Bastura. She's 13 years old and from
Shaunavon, SK, Canada She is known for
being outgoing and crazy! Before a knee injury, she
enjoyed gymnastics and playing street hockey with her
little brother. Summer-Dawn is with Edge Agency out
of Regina and has been since she was about 9 years old.
When she's not hanging out with friends she enjoys acting and
starred in A.R.C.H.I.E 2 MISSION IMPAWSIBLE which was
released earlier this year.
summer_bastura
er
Dawn Bastura

PHOTO - BRANDY BASTURA

PHOTO - BRANDY BASTURA

teenLOOK feature
Ttalayna ekelund
Having just been crowned Miss Teen Canada CWI
2018-2019, Talayna Ekelund, a 17-year-old Grade 12
student from Daysland, Alberta, was living her dream.
About to represent Canada overseas with girls
from 23 different countries at an International
pageant in London England, she was struck by
a mysterious illness that brought those dreams
to an end. Now, 5 months later, Talayna shares
her story of tragedy and overcoming the odds.
tally_dancer
It's every girl's dream to win a pageant and
have the chance to represent your country.
Even more so if that girl is representing
from a small rural town in Alberta as I did. But
it all suddenly turned to tragedy one Friday
evening after a night with friends. What felt like
a cold, quickly escalated into flu-like symptoms
and by 1:30 am I was having troubles breathing.
My mom took me to the Daysland hospital
for treatment of dehydration and kidney pain.
Within an hour I was completely unresponsive.
Rushed by ambulance to the Stollery Hospital
in Edmonton, the staff immediately admitted
me to the PCIU - Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

It turned out that Talayna had more fight
left in her and she would make it, regardless
of what the medical team believed.
I had a mystery infection. No matter how much testing
they did they never were able to identify it. The infection
caused the DKA which in turn, gave the infection a
glucose-rich environment to grow in. It was a perfect
storm. It grew to the point where it sent me into
progressive shock and shut off all the internal organs in
my body. My heart, lungs and kidneys sustained the most
damage. I spent two weeks in the PICU. I was hooked
up to the ECMO Machine which acted as my heart and
lungs, a ventilator to keep my lungs from collapsing and a
PRISMA machine to act as my kidneys and clean my blood.
Upon admittance, a breathing tube had to be
inserted to help me breathe. My blood sugar levels
were 40 when they should have been 4. A diagnosis
for Diabetic Ketoacidosis was thought to be the
source of the illness. Being a type 1 diabetic for
the past 10 years, this was the first ever diagnosis
with this condition. Upon treatment, my blood
sugar levels were coming back under control and
the breathing tube was scheduled to be removed the
next day. Believing that they had treated the illness
and feeling that I would be recovered, the doctor's
prognosis was that I would be on my way home in a
couple of days.
Four hours later Talayna's heart stopped. Every
alarm rang as doctors and nurses rushed to save her
life. It took the medical team two minutes to bring
her back. This happened a second time as Talayna's
mother watched in grief and horror as the team
performed CPR to resuscitate Talayna. At this point,
the doctors informed her mother to call in family and
friends as they believed there was not much time left.
After 10 days I came off the ECMO Machine, 2 days
later I came off the respirator and I got to "wake
up" as I had been kept sedated the whole time. Two
days after that I came off the PRISMA machine and
I got to leave the PICU for the regular PEDS ward.
When we left the PICU the head doctor came to see
us and he told us that I was literally a living miracle
because the majority of patients he sees in my condition
don't make it. But my struggles weren't over yet.
My kidneys were refusing to function and so I had
dialysis treatments every 2-3 days and one point
they talked about the possibility of a transplant, but
I followed all their rules and diets and restrictions
and took all my meds and finally, after 2 more weeks
of dialysis, my kidneys started functioning again.
My biggest struggle, however, was my left leg. When
the surgeon hooked me up to life support he went in
on my left groin and in the hurry to save my life he
nicked and damaged the femoral nerve in my left leg.
Having the main nerve in my leg damaged affected
my entire quad muscle and left me dealing with
nerve pain 24 hours a day. In total, I lost 27 pounds
of muscle while in the hospital. I was weak, tired all
the time, it took me ridiculous amounts of time to do
simple things like eat and get dressed. Also as a result
of the nerve damage and muscle loss, I couldn't walk.
I literally had to relearn how to walk. Getting out of bed
to cross the room to use the bathroom was a huge task
and major accomplishment. It took me two weeks of

therapy before I could make it down the hallway to the
nurse's station using a walker. For a girl that is used to
strutting the runway in a 6" heel, this was devastating. I
was in pain all the time, I struggled to complete simple
tasks, I also had to drop a semester of school, which
means my graduation has been pushed back a year.
I felt like my entire life was being taken away from me.
I missed getting to go to London, England in November
2018 to represent Canada because I was still in the hospital.
I was in a dark place, feeling like I had lost everything
that mattered to me and all I had worked so hard
for. The doctors couldn't tell me if my femoral
nerve would heal or if the nerve pain would ever
go away. I was mad, depressed, frustrated, angry.
I felt like what was the point of saving my life it this was
going to be the quality of it. To live every day in pain,
unable to do simple tasks or to walk properly. But my
mom who was there every hour of every day for those
5 and a half weeks wasn't having it. She told me it was
ok to feel upset and mad and have a pity party because
I was going through a lot, but it wasn't ok to give up.
She raised me to be stronger than that. That I had to be
the one to decide that I was going to get better and that
I had to do the work to make it happen. Nobody could
if i can die twice and come back
then nothing is impossible!
do it for me and that there was no magic wand she
could wave to make it all go away and back to normal.
So I pushed through the pain and I did the physio and
I set goals for myself. I came home using a walker and
on nerve blockers for pain on November 30th, but
now 5 months later, I'm off all my meds. I've gotten
rid of the walker and my limp. I'm starting to wear
heels again and I'm feeling good. I'm getting out in the
community again and am back in school. The best news
of all is the Commonwealth Organization has agreed to
let me keep my title for another year and I still can go to
London, England this November to represent Canada.
No matter what life throws at you, no matter what struggles
you face, it's ok to feel upset and struggle to overcome
them; but it's not ok to give up. You have to be strong and
pick yourself up and keep working hard towards your goals
and dreams. It might take you a little longer to achieve
them then you wanted, and you might face setbacks
that seem impossible to overcome but you are stronger
then you think and you were put here for a purpose.
If I can die twice, come back to life, be called a living
miracle, and relearn how to walk; then I truly believe
nothing is impossible because I've already beaten the odds!

PHOTO - JULIE AND WOLFGANG PHOTOGRAPHY
ad

I am a 15yr old energetic, highly adaptable model who
has been in the business for about six months now. I
have trained with Walk The Talk course and gained
fervour and respect for the industry. While I have
a "girl next door" look I am also interested in
high fashion and eccentric modelling ideas.
My preference is print however I am trained
and eager to try out runway modelling
as well. I see modelling as an outlet for
my creative side, bringing passion and
excitement to all the photo shoots I've
attended. I have no problem taking
direction and interpreting the
photographer's concept while
also bringing some fun and
interesting ideas to the project
Maddie was a very
introverted and selfconscious
teenager
and
art has
before attending
awoken
Walk the Talk and
something
learning about
in her she
modelling.
didn't know
This world
she had. She
of creativity
has definitely
broken out of
her shell and
exudes new
confidence seen
by everyone. Being
a very imaginative
person by nature has
helped Maddie escape
into the concepts of her
photo shoots allowing
her to express who she
really is.
maddie.lesage1
die
lesage
Photo - Julie and Wolfgang Photography

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

katr
PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS
isabel_yegmodels

Katrina Seewalt.
I'm a dancer and
I started modelling
to gain confidence and
experience something new.
I have met so many new people
doing modelling and I’m excited to
meet more.
I got into modelling through Walk the Talk
courses, and I got to participate in western
Canadian fashion week. I love pandas
and watermelon.
_katrinaseewalt
ina
seewalt

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

emi
PHOTO - BRENDAN ROY
HAIR - VIKING’S EDGE HAIR
MUA - ADOR MAKEUP ART

Age 15, 5'10", born and raised
in the community of Summerside in
Edmonton with mom, Dad, and a brother named
Ben. Hobbies include playing the piano and clarinet,
glee, girl guides, and hanging out with friends and cousins.
Modelling experience includes three seasons of WCFW,
starting at age 13, including walking all five nights at spring
2019. Numerous other photo shoots and fashion shows for local
designers and photographers.
emily.breunig
ly
breunig

PHOTO - BRENDAN ROY
HAIR - VIKING’S EDGE HAIR
MUA - ADOR MAKEUP ART

PHOTO - QIAO QIANZHI_ALLEN
MUA - EMILY BREUNIG

teenLOOK feature
beauty
APRIL FLORES
your guide to flawless skin
and make-up prep with
APRIL FLORES

Certified Make up Artist
April Flores
shares her industry secrets
You are a new model and you want your
first editorial modelling stint to be
flawless and impeccable. Only for you
to find out, you have no idea of the
preparations you should take prior to the
photoshoot. As a makeup artist, it is always my
desire to bring the best look out of my clients.
In order to achieve such, a clear canvas
for a flawless makeup application is
key and skin prepping is a must.
Here are some tips to take on skin preparation
that work for my clients:
1 Start with clean skin. The best way
to put makeup on is with a clean face.
Cleanser removes any dirt, impurities
and substances that can lead to
clogged pores and dull skin. For oily
skin, foaming liquid would be best to
use. This cleanser changes into an
airy foam that helps break down any
impurities to your skin. For dry skin,
use Cream or lotion as this is formulated
with emollients which wipe away any
dirt but still hydrating leaving your skin
feeling soft and supple.
3 Apply Serum. Serum are potent
ingredients that penetrate deeper into
the skin to address specific concerns.
After cleansing and right before
moisturizing the skin, apply a peasized
amount of Serum on your face.
for best result, apply morning and evening.
4 Moisturize. Hydrated skin is important
in achieving a flawless complexion.
Moisturizer locks in hydration and
help soothe, plump and smooth your
skin. For dry skin, use cream - they
tend to have a higher oil content that
help hydrate your skin. For oily skin, find
a gel moisturizer which is mostly water
based and lightweight to absorb
easily into skin. This type of
moisturizer does not add extra oil
to skin, instead it hydrates your skin
without leaving a feeling of oiliness.
Remember, all our skin is different. What
works for my client might not work for you
or vice versa. No matter what experts
say, listen to your skin and be gentle. Eat
healthy and drink lots of water, by doing this
you are nourishing your skin from within.
2 Exfoliate Regularly. Exfoliating removes
any build up of dead skin cells on the
surface of your skin for smoother and
younger looking skin. It also helps
any products to penetrate deeper
into your skin and make them more
effective. Exfoliating helps take away any dry
patches to your face and give a clear canvas
to your makeup application. Exfoliate once
or twice a week will leave your skin fresh and
healthy.
WORDS BY
APRIL FLORES
PHOTOS BY
JEPH DEON FLORES
some of the items shown
-Estee Lauder perfectionist pro rapid firm
-Dior capture youth age delay advanced eye treatment
-Caudalie anti wrinkle serum - Laneige water bank serum
-Clinique pep-stat eye cream

PHOTO - ERINCROOKSPHOTO
MUA - ASPEN ARTISTRY
HAIR - HAIRBYASHLEYRUECKER
ad

Based out of Regina, Saskatchewan Madison
is a 13-year-old model who signed with
Edge Agency in October 2018. Since then
she has done a variety of modelling and
already had numerous creative and
fashion shoots with many published
and talented photographers. When
she isn’t modelling Madison also
enjoys competitive cheerleading.
She has competed across
Canada and along with her
team won numerous awards.
She is a social media whiz
who loves to connect
with others on
Instagram. She has
over 6 k followers
to date. Madison
is a huge
movie fan
and loves
to indulge
in movie
nights. She has
a passion for
science and plans
to study forensic
science at university
one day. Madison
dreams of walking the
runway soon and hopes
to model professionally.
maddie_deibert
die
deibert

PHOTO - ERINCROOKSPHOTO
MUA - ASPEN ARTISTRY
HAIR - HAIRBYASHLEYRUECKER

PHOTO - KAVANAGHPHOTOGRAPHYCANADA
MUA - EUNICE MAKEUP YQR
HAIR - MINX_YQR

gabri
PHOTO - SHAYNA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - EUNICE MAKEUP YQR

I am a 14-year-old
model signed with Edge Agency in
Regina, Saskatchewan. I am a competitive
volleyball player and have a passion and love
for art. I enjoy spending time with my friends and
family! I also love doing makeup and watching makeup
tutorials, and hope to someday make that my career!
The things I love most about modelling are the wonderful people that
I've met, the amazing opportunities that are available if you work hard and
being a part in creating beautiful pictures! I am very grateful for everyone
who has helped me. I believe that it is important for girls to encourage each
other, a little kindness can mean a lot to someone who really needs it! I have
made so many friends since I started modelling and the support I have received
has been amazing!
_gabrielle.elayna
elle
bonogofski

PHOTO - THE UGLY DUCKLING
MUA - GABRIELLE.ELAYNA

PHOTO - SHAYNA NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - EUNICE MAKEUP YQR

PHOTO - THE UGLY DUCKLING
MUA - GABRIELLE.ELAYNA

dan
PHOTO - THOM LAYCRAFT

Danny is 17 years old and started
modelling two years ago when
she signed with NUMA models.
She grew up being very photogenic
and always knew she wanted to
be a model and travel the world.
After modelling with NUMA for one
year she decided to take a break and
focus more on school. Still doing some
modelling here and there. Danny hopes
to model full time after graduating in
2020.
danny__palmer
ny
palmer

PHOTO - THOM LAYCRAFT

PHOTO - THOM LAYCRAFT

teenLOOK feature
"Walk the Talk" is a 2-day model development
course presented by four professional
individuals within Edmonton's fashion
Industry. This course is designed to properly
educate and prepare aspiring models
and/or models already in the industry.
daraecks walkthetalkcourses mainlinephotography

There is so much more to modelling
than meets the eye. It is not just
about a pretty face. It requires
a great personality, professionalism,
practice and a ton of hard work. Many
people wanting to pursue the dream of
becoming the next supermodel quickly
learn how much is work is involved before
you can even get a foot in the fashion
industry. It takes years to navigate and
years of experience to really go anywhere.
The Founders of Walk The Talk, Christine
Main (Photographer) and Dara Eckel
(retired International Model) saw the need
in the Edmonton fashion and modelling
industry for training, direction and
mentorship as many people were contacting
them for guidance, information and where
to start in modelling and what to do.
Dara was a scouted while visiting West
Edmonton Mall at only the age of 12.
Two days later she found herself signed
with Elmer Olsen Models in Toronto and
was fulltime modelling internationally,
signed with IMG Paris by the age of 14.
She actually moved to Paris with her
mom to work and did her schooling by
correspondence. She was published in
many well-known magazines on the rack,
billboards and walked the runway for various
high-end designers and most notably
she was published in a Jean Paul Gaultier
book with the likes of Madonna and Cher.
Dara had many amazing opportunities,
but because of the pressures of the
industry, the death of her grandfather
and various other reasons, she moved
back home to Edmonton and retired from
international modelling at the age of 18.
She then went on to be married and had two
boys and focused on her family. After the birth
of her first son, she realized she had a passion
for makeup and became a very successful
award-winning Mary Kay consultant
and began training in makeup artistry.
Christine always had a love for photography
as far back as she can remember and
enjoyed photographing landscapes and
animals. When Dara was signed in Toronto
Christine began taking her photography
more seriously by taking classes and
practicing on friends and family. Dara
became her muse and they worked
closely together practicing modelling,
lighting and posing. Christine would take
Dara’s digitals for the agencies when they
required updates and followed Dara’s career.
Christine then started a photography
business photographing weddings,
newborns and families building up a large
clientele. Dara had also built up a large
clientele with her Mary Kay products and
they began doing creative photo shoots
together for fun with various models.
It was these models and their friends as
well as clientele that were trying to get
into modelling that started approaching
them asking questions on how to break
into the industry, asking for guidance and
for photo shoots to start their portfolios.
With Christine’s photography knowledge
and Dara’s modelling and makeup

experience, everything began to make
sense to them and this lead them
bringing it all together in a classroom
setting. Walk The Talk Courses was
developed in 2018, with its main focus being
model development and quickly evolved into
something much more. It became evident
with the pressures of social media, industry
beauty standards and the lack of self-love,
that much more needed to be done and their
focus shifted to help boost their student’s
self-confidence; embracing their uniqueness
and offering a segment within the course
to include the overall improvement of their
mental health. They have teamed up with
the Canadian Mental Health Association
and Eating Disorder Support Network
of Alberta to have professionals discuss
mental health and body image as well as
provide the students with the resources
that are available to them should they
need
help.
The modelling and fashion industry in
Edmonton is relatively small and the market
is very competitive. The international
market is extremely demanding and is
generally offered to individuals who have
very specific measurements or an incredibly
unique look and personality. There
are so many different types of
modelling and alternative and curve
modelling are on the rise. There
are many amazing opportunities
available if the individual pursues
them and works hard regardless of
age, size or gender. It is important
for the student to know what their
niche is, what route is best suited
for them, as well as development
in posing, representation and
being prepared for all situations.
body image, bullying, how to start modelling,
and categories of modelling, representation
and much more. The students are also
trained one on one for walking the runway.
The second day includes professional
“makeup no makeup look”, posing
techniques and a guided photo shoot with
Ernest Augustus (Studio E Photography)
for images to start their portfolios.
The course is open to anyone ages 12+ (with
their oldest attendee being 52 so far). The
environment is fun, relaxed and supportive
and it is so incredible how quickly everyone
bonds regardless of size, age, sex etc. The
course is a great confidence booster whether
the student is pursuing modelling or not. It
is also very informative for photographers,
makeup artists and designers to help
them understand the industry from the
model’s point of view. Everyone is there
to support one another and the positivity
that comes out if it is wonderful. Dara and
Christine find it very rewarding to watch
the student’s confidence skyrocket and see
them leave with huge smiles on their faces.
Walk The Talk Courses also provides
ongoing mentoring, job opportunities,
an ambassador program as well as
Walk the Talk Courses does just
that. The two-day course includes
one full day of classroom instruction
including such topics as expectations
vs reality, safety, rejection, self-care,

other events to their grads. They take
pride in the fact that Walk The Talk
Courses has become a community of likeminded
people who work together and are
excited to support each other’s successes.
A successful person will do what they
say they can do or would do and not
just make empty promises. A model
must literally ‘walk the talk’. If they are
prepared, professional and know what is
expected of them prior to a photo shoot
or event it will help them succeed. Some
people ‘talk the talk’ while some ‘walk
the walk’. The people who ‘walk the talk’
reach their desired destination
successfully. Always back up your
words with action and ‘walk the talk’
with determination and perseverance.
Words by Christine
Main and Dara Eckel
Photos by Studio E
Photography
TESTIMONIALS
“I was nervous and really didn’t know what to think when I
signed up for this course but Dara and Christine really helped
calm my nerves with how helpful, informative, outgoing and
kind they are! This course helped me kickstart a passion that
I didn’t even know I had for modelling! Not only was the
course very informative, eye-opening and helpful, it was also
very fun! It was such a nice breath of fresh air to hang out
with the other aspiring models and to make new friends!”
- Raylene Peredery
“My son Paul wants to pursue acting. Walk The Talk was such
a great resource for him to gain confidence in front of the
camera.
- Carrie Brosbol
“Sitting in while my daughter took the Walk The Talk Course
was invaluable to me as a parent. The information that I
received by also being present for the entire course gave me
the guidance necessary to help my aspiring model enter the
industry with greater ease. Pursuing something new can be
intimidating but with the knowledge we both gained during
the course, I have confidently been able to make the first steps
towards achieving her modelling goals.”
- Laura Bradka

mila
PHOTO - MAINLINEPHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - DARAECKS

Born to be a performer, Milana started dancing
at the age of 3. She is trained in ballet, jazz, tap,
contemporary, modern, variety and is also a
Ukrainian dancer. When she isn’t dancing,
you can find her rocking the runway! At
the age of 13, Milana stands 5'9" and
has discovered a strong passion for
modelling! Just as she was never
afraid to be in the limelight on
stage, she loves being in front
of the camera. In September,
Milana auditioned with Flair
Talent Agency and they
signed her as a model.
She started by taking
the amazing "Walk
the Talk" Course
with Dara Eckel &
Christine Main
last fall and
has been
working with
photographers
to build her
portfolio. She
learned so much
and has had a very
positive experience
with the modelling
community. She loves
meeting new people
and looks forward to
new experiences that
may come her way.
milanayouung
na
young

PHOTO - MAINLINEPHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ADDO PHOTOGRAPHY
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS
pau

I am 15 years old
and in Grade 10. My
favourite things to
do in my spare time
are bike riding, Netflix,
video games and hanging
out with my friends
and family. My passion
is drama and acting.
I have been in six
productions and dream
of making a career of it. I
recently started modelling
and took a model
development course to
expand my interests and
help me become even more
comfortable in front of the
camera and an audience.
paul_4_reals
l
brosbol

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

nata
PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

I’m Natasha Seewalt, I love to dance and
make new friends. I love to experience new
things and learn. I decided to become a
model because I thought it’d be cool to
try. Modelling is fun and I get to meet
so many new people.
I love lemons!
natashaseewalt
sha
Photo - studio_e_photography
mua - daraecks
seewalt

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

PHOTO - ERNEST AUGUSTUS
MUA - DARAECKS

ayde
PHOTO - CK PHOTOGRAPHY
HMAU - AYDEN KOSKO

My name is Ayden Kosko, I’m 15 years old and live in Lloydminster,
Alberta/Saskatchewan.
Recently, at Regionals I won Miss Teen Alberta Globe and at Nationals,
Miss Teen Canada Petite with MCGP. I have always had a passion for
makeup, hair, fashion, modelling and pageants. I have been involved
in many modelling and fashion shows, including New York Fashion
Week Feb 2019, invited to walk for a local Alberta designer
Enchanted Ever After Michelle Bossert at WCFW March 2019.
I speak at elementary schools to young ladies about selfesteem,
self-worth and confidence, to encourage them to
believe in themselves. I am involved in many extracurricular
activities, such as soccer, dance, rugby, modelling; I have
a love for sports. I have a few platforms I cherish, I
volunteer and help at my local L.A.B.I.S (Lloydminster
& Area Brain Injury Society). Also our local
Cinderella Project, where we help Dreams Come True
for young girls and families who are experiencing
financial pressures and hardships surrounding
graduation time. Through our community and
sponsors, we are able to provide gowns, shoes,
corsages, hair and makeup and much more for
their special day. When I graduate, I would
still like to be involved in the makeup, hair,
fashion, and modelling world, and decide
between a medical field to someday be
a doctor and aid people in developing
counties with Doctors Without Borders
or law school to help those in need.
I’d like to Thank Teen Look for this
opportunity and all my amazing
photographers, as without you this
wouldn't be possible.
naydenkoskoportfolio
kosko
Photo - CK Photography
HMAU Ayden Kosko

PHOTO - CK PHOTOGRAPHY
HMAU - AYDEN KOSKO

PHOTO - DUSTIN AYRAN
HMAU - AYDEN KOSKO