Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Shane Lin

Shane Lin was born in Taiwan, educated in Boston, and now based in London. Coming from a long line of businessmen and women, she followed her family’s footsteps and studied Entrepreneurship and Economics, which later landed her a career in construction management and consultancy services. Due to the nature of her job, Shay has been working in male-dominated industries for years. As a female and a minority, she is very much aware that women had to fight much harder to be heard and seen in the workplace and society. Being encouraged by her sister and friends, Lin decided to start an account as her creative outlet. She explores the benefits of using her platform to amplify women’s voices by sharing her everyday style and hoping to, in the slightest, inspire the ladies out there to stop picking apart their bodies, discover their most attractive selves, and feel confident in their own skin.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Shane to discuss her journey in the fashion world, and here’s what went down:

Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?

I am a big believer in high-low fashion. I find mixing more expensive tailored pieces with more casual everyday pieces makes me look more styled and aesthetically balanced when done right. Aritzia, Storet, Arket, and COS do quality staple pieces with a subtle twist. Mango and H&M are also my go-to’s and good places for trendy and basic pieces at a more affordable price. For the past few seasons, they carried the most beautiful knitwear and dresses. I like to shop for jeans and trousers at Uniqlo. There’s something about their design that fits your body like a glove. I’d go to Zara for trend pieces as they are fast at catching on to the latest trends without breaking the bank. I would check out third-party retail websites like Farfetch, Net-a-Porter, and Forward for brands with hefty price tags. I’m always on the lookout for the best deal and shop around off-season or at the end of the season before I take the plunge.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

Layering. Instead of putting on just one layer of top and a heavy coat, I’d start with a high neck or a crew neck sweater, throw on a blazer for a little bit of structure and complete the look with an oversized coat/jacket. This combo not only keeps me snug in cooler months but provides versatility for multiple occasions. I would also choose a nice pair of boots that give room for thick socks for some added warmth.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I usually take inspiration from Pinterest, people on the street, my mom and auntie (I might sound partial, but their generation had the best style, in my opinion). I also like to take ideas from other creators but avoid styling pieces the same way they look at others. I will usually personalize it to suit my aesthetic as some styles might suit others but might not make you feel 100% comfortable with them.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

To me, staying fashionable is to have a clear mind and idea of what works best for you. Social media can be a double-edged sword. It is super helpful for new ideas, style tips, and inspiration, but it can make you feel more confused about what you want at times simply because there is too much going on out there at every single second. When I run out of ideas, instead of hunting frantically for ideas from social media, I would have a good look at my wardrobe and lay everything out in front of me. This helps to style things up visually in terms of what colors and pieces coordinate and harmonize.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

Under the influence of social media, we are so vulnerable to losing our individuality because we are not looking like someone else. What is in today can be out tomorrow. Don’t get me wrong; I used to fall into the trap of catching trends without thinking if that would suit or pair with the rest of my wardrobe. I believe comfort and fashion are equally important. I now tend to go for styles that I am the most comfortable with and confident in. At the end of the day, your uniqueness will only shine through if you are being yourself.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

I see cut-out dresses or tops everywhere. I find this trend easy to replicate and not too “trend” driven. When done very minimally, I find a classically fit dress with very flattering and very fine slits, which adds a little extra something in a very inoffensive way. This year, I also see many blue and yellow in accessories and clothing, from duck egg blue, bright royal blue, and custard yellow. I love the contrast the vibrant colors create when paired with deeper shades, especially grey.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I am happy to see more and more people promote sustainable fashion. Both brands and consumers are putting more emphasis on sustainable production and consumption. The focus of the whole industry is shifting towards more of an environmentally-friendly narrative.

It’s got us to put more thought into what goes behind a piece of clothing and if what we buy has been ethically or environmentally produced. We don’t have to purchase new clothes constantly to create a new look or to stay current. We need to realize the power of reinventing, restyling, and reinvesting in something we already own. It’s still a long way to go, but I’d like to think we are on the right track.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

Low-waisted jeans, neon-colored items, branded monogram belts, super exaggerated platform shoes need to be out the door. Those used to be the ‘it’ items, and you see them everywhere….(still remember that studded or rhinestoned Ed Hardy). It’s just my personal opinion, but I’m over them.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

I once heard a stylist named Molly Bingaman say that “the most attractive look is always the most authentic one.” I 100% resonate with that. How to show up authentically is something I believe we all struggle to a different degree at some point in our life. We put ourselves at the mercy of the critics and are constantly seeking acceptance, and because of that, we start questioning our style, taste, body image, and identity. My advice would be to take that control back. Don’t feel insecure if you don’t look like someone else. Celebrate your uniqueness, discover your authentic self, and everything will follow naturally.

The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years; what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?

Don’t follow trends blindly, and don’t spend a ton of money on overhyped items. New trends are created every day and can spread overnight thanks to social media. Don’t feel like you need to catch that trends train all the time. I’d say to be selective and discreet about the fashion elements that are trending and mix bits and pieces with what you already have. Keep things simple. You don’t need to be doing what other people are doing. Source unique and classic pieces that will stand the test of time and will complement you and your wardrobe.

Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Dashing Luka

Luka is a fashion stylist and digital influencer who hails from Sydney, Australia. He gets fashion inspo mostly from movies or out on the streets, and he’s very open-minded when it comes to shopping for clothes – he can shop in prominent designer boutiques but also wear local designer brands.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Luka to discuss his journey in the fashion world, and here’s what went down:

Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?

I’m very open-minded when I’m shopping. I can go to either big designer boutiques, but I also love shopping for local designer brands too. I think it is very important to support them.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

I think the trick is to layer it out since you are going to spend time indoor. Having a nice top/pants and putting a super vibe coach can create a perfect outfit. Having simple colours is always the safest option to play around the season.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Mostly on movies and the street. I do love bloggers and magazines, but I think you have to find your style first instead of copying someone.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

No, it’s not. As soon as you dress for yourself and be confident, it is not hard at all.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

I think you need to find a line that you want to be first and add things to your personality, so people will understand who you are.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

Since the pandemic started, I think we are all going back into a more comfortable style, which I believe will be continuous for the next season.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

I think fashion has become very important globally, but we always got to remember that we can’t be slaves of fashion.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

I’m always donating pieces that I haven’t worn for a while. However, I recycle a lot of clothes as trends always come back, so we must reuse things again.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

Be yourself and play simple first.

The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years; what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?

It is tough to keep up with every single trend out there, so I think having a simple knowledge of what’s is on at the moment and trying to adapt it in your own style is the key to staying ahead of the curve.

Most Promising Model Of The Week: Introducing The Stunning Nikol Stach

When Nikol Stachwas around 12 years old, her Aunty asked her if she could be a model just for her assignment at a makeup school. She did a shoot after her makeup was done and the photographer asked her if she does any modelling as she “knew how to move” in his opinion. This got her interested in modelling but she never acted on it at the time. It was only when her Instagram started to grow and she received an email from a photographer asking to shoot her that she took it seriously. Ever since then she just continued networking and finding modelling jobs regularly.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Nikol to discuss her journey in the modelling world and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a model? 

The thing I like most about being a model is the fact that I get to create and be creative. I especially love shoots where I get to style and create little scenarios which tell a story. 

Downside to being a model? 

The biggest downside, in my opinion, would probably have to be that we constantly get compared to one another as models. Even though the industry is becoming more and more inclusive, I still feel as though you really need to have thick skin when it comes to certain aspects of this business.  

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the modelling industry so far?

There have been many memorable experiences throughout my career, but at this moment I am most grateful for my move to Melbourne, where I’m loving the change in work.  

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

I honestly can’t choose, I meet so many different people every day and I think all are equally as interesting, and I love getting to know everyone. 

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the modelling \ industry. This can be about the industry or about yourself.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned being in the industry is that, if you believe in yourself and really portray that energy, others will also believe in you, sure, looks play a part but confidence is equally as important. 

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family is supportive of me being a model but still wishes I chose a more traditional career. 

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I don’t think I’d do anything differently as my past has led to my current life. 

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given would have to be “No one works harder for you than you working for yourself.”

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it. 

My future career plans consist of getting into the acting business, and travelling as soon as we can. 

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Moana.

2. What do you consider beautiful and why? All things nature, because it makes me feel connected to the earth and gives me energy. 

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Travelled around the world, especially to tropical locations. 

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d ” be a stunt person. 

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? I wouldn’t change anything about myself.

Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Ingrid Martínez

Ingrid Martínez (@ingridmartinezcas) has always loved fashion. She studied Advertising and Public Relations and then completed a master’s degree in Fashion and Luxury Communication at Elle magazine. She became a fashionista because she wanted to do something professionally with fashion; so she started to upload her various looks via her Instagram account which gained more and more followers and the rest you can say is history.

Model & Mode magazine recently had a one on one interview with the talented Ingrid and here’s what happened:

Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?

I usually shop at Zara, Mango, or Uterqüe. For handbags I am more selective, I like Michael Kors, Celine, and YSL. A great tip to buy designer clothes is to go to second-hand stores; start searching and with a little patience you can get very good clothes and even some real jewels.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

I love the cold months! I really like winter clothes and playing with layers. Although I tend to dress very monochromatic, during the cold months I like to add a pop of color with blouses or handbags. The key is balance and not to stop dressing how you would like to just because it’s winter and it’s cold.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

Everywhere. On the street, magazines, Pinterest. I also have a saved folder on Instagram about different looks. Runways are also great for inspiration.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

Yes and no, it depends on the mood I would say. There are times when I just want to wear a tracksuit because I’m tired and others when I want to go out as if I were going to walk down a runway. It is important to respect those moods in which you would like to be more comfortable, but you can always give it some style with some good accessories, a good hairstyle, or red lips.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

Being unique is already a commercial attraction in itself. In this world, it is important to have your own personality and brands realize that. They don’t want copies, they want you to shine on your own, that’s what makes you attractive.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

It is clear that color is the trend that is being worn the most right now. A trend that I used to resist, but now I love it. A green silk blouse, with jeans and white sandals, is the perfect look for a summer afternoon.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

That it is changing and that is good. I see a trend in fashion that we have been asking for a long time and that is that it should not be so changeable, that is, that it should not be so fast. I see it in several brands, especially in Spanish brands that manufacture in Spain. They seek to create clothes that are sustainable and that last over time, which I love.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

The hip jeans and platform sandals. They were already worn some time ago and came back, the truth is that it is a fashion that I did not like at all and that went away for many years.

Featured Event Of The Week: Mrs. Universe Australia & Miss Supermodel Universe

What: The Mrs. Universe Australia pageant is for the most honourable woman. According to our rules, she must be between the age of 18 to 55, have a family, her own career, and be involved with a significant cause in favour of other people. Our pageant is not just open to married women, it’s also open to divorced or widowed women. The idea that unites them is the motto “against violence” which in different years covers different causes.

The pageant “Super Model Universe” was created with the idea to present new models for the world podium and its best modeling agencies. The pageant’s participation requirements are: Girls 18-27 years, height minimum 175 cm. Boys 18-26, height minimum 180 cm.

Where: Dockside Darling Harbour (2 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000)

When: Sunday, October 31, 2021, at 6 PM – 9 PM

Tickets:  Contact Maryrose Salubre on 0423 710 659

Meet The Model Behind The Cover Of The June 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Stunning Marona Tanner

Cover Photography by: i2frame_photography

Marona Tanner is a Sydney-based Model. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication majoring in 3D Animation and Graphic Design, as well as certificates in both Screen Acting and Finance. It was her family’s move to Australia that kickstarted Marona Tanner’s successful modeling career. Her stunning beauty, a result of her Egyptian heritage, drew the admiration of anyone she came across with, and for good reason. Besides being a full-time model and a high-profile Instagram star with more than half a million followers, Marona also possesses an acting degree, she’s a sculptor and an animator who can speak 3 languages; English, Arabic, and French. She has modelled for high profile brands such as Abyss By Abby, Do You Even, Lorna Jane, Freddy, Fashion Nova, JD Sports, L’Oréal, Lonsdale, and many more so it’s safe to say that Marona is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Marona to discuss her journey in the modeling industry and here’s what went down:

How did you get into the modeling industry? How were you actually ‘discovered’?

Since I’ve moved to Australia, I feel like I have been guided by almost every person I come across to do modeling as a full-time job.

Photographed by @i2frame_photography

What do you like most about being a model?

Getting to meet creative people from all around the world. I’ve modeled for a lot of overseas brands so it’s been absolutely amazing dealing and working with many creative minds.

The downside to being a model?

I guess modeling in Australia can be a bit challenging which is why it’s very important for professional models to broaden themselves and have agencies in different countries.

What do you like most when it comes to partnering with various brands?

Networking and building strong relationships with small and big brands.

Photographed by @dacshots

What do you post on Instagram the most?

Mostly about fashion and style.

What’s your favourite part about being a model/influencer?

Being able to promote the latest trends in the fashion world.

What advice would you give emerging influencers when it comes to the importance of quality and original content?

Most brands these days prefer real-life images of people, not necessarily from your typical skinny models with long legs. Nowadays, what’s really working well are real people with beautiful curves. That’s what I call being original.

Photographed by @dacshots

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

I appreciate people who put effort into their appearance. However, real beauty is what comes within and nothing can beat that!

Is your family supportive of you being in the modeling industry?

Yes.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

Star in a movie at one point, buy a new house and a boat.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Brain on fire. I also appreciate Hot Fuzz and the Dress Maker.

2. What do you consider beautiful? A good soul.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? We all have dreams. However, I like to take one step at a time.

Photographed by @dacshots

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d…” swim far/deep in the ocean

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? How stubborn I am, guess I’m stubborn about that too.

Photographed by JESSICA CUDA
Model MARONA TANNER
Hair ANDI ASMARO
Makeup MAKEUP BY DREW

5 No Cost Style Tips and Tricks for the Holidays

It’s that time of the year again! Yes, it is definitely that time of the year again wherein most of us pretty people contemplate for hours, melting mirrors by staring at it for prolonged instances and sighing endlessly while thinking “What the heck should I wear this time!”. I couldn’t tell you more how beautiful, glamorous and good-looking we all are, but we all had our darkest times, literally our darkest times hiding in the closet before going to a special occasion. Whether it be a planned event for Thanksgiving, a Christmas party or a sudden invitation to hang out and get drunk after Halloween! Anytime can be “That time of the year” for us fabulous contemplators. Luckily, being fashionable can be attained by these 5 Tips and Tricks we would be covering in this article.

  1. Size Really matters

No matter what occasion or holiday It is, it is very important to consider outfit size. Avoid using outfits that you might have found exactly fitting 3 years ago for your last minute choice when in a rush unless you have tried them out or wore them just recently and it still perfectly fits you, and of course, suits you. When in doubt, wear something comfortable and breathable since confidence can’t flourish with taut jeans or a top.

  1. Rise and Accessorize

Instead of being complacent about having something to wear for the holiday, lock your doors and be personally wild! Open drawers and storage boxes that might be hiding precious gems you might have forgotten about. Give your stuff a chance to shine in the spotlight once more! You might come across a bracelet given as a gift for example. Nostalgia spices up holidays in the best way possible.

  1. Watch your watch

Beautiful people like us often forget the value of the jewelry strapped on our wrists. Not the monetary value, but the importance of this accessory we wear at different “times”. There are no standards set on which watch type is best to wear. Practicality should be very well balanced with aesthetics. A sports watch for example is best worn with outdoor activities, like a water-resistant type to get you prepared just in case a friend pushes you in a pool. On the other hand, metallic watches can be a great fit for formal indoor activities. A lot of watches nowadays have customizable straps to match the color of your suit or dress. Watches are also best buds with earrings or necklaces when complemented properly.

  1. Choosing the Right Colors

Color choice is as important as choosing what to wear. As a matter of fact and experience, the color sets the mood of the beholder and also the confidence level of the person wearing the chosen color. It is very important to choose a color you are confident in wearing and it is also as important to match your confidence with the vibe your chosen color represents.

The color Black reflects power, authority, and attracts respect among the crowd, which would be a perfect choice during speeches and formal events during the holidays. Not to mention that Black is great with after-parties too!

Red also symbolizes power and authority but is mostly associated with passion. I challenge you to look at anything Red in color and I can assure you that you would feel an intense feeling. Red is wearable during Christmas but refrain from combining it with green to avoid looking like Santa Clause.

White is often associated with purity, dignity, innocence and cleanliness. White will most work with parties and informal events. Looking at white gives you the “Chill and easy” feeling and also makes you look approachable.

There are tons of colors we haven’t specified yet but I am sure by reading color descriptions aboce, you’ll get the analogy and be able to combine and mix with your own taste.

  1. Hair-do and Hair-don’t

Your hair is as important as your face and what you wear. It is a no-brainer that your hair must be well maintained for you to have it styled easily for the holiday. A right haircut, hairstyle or hair color can make your face look brighter and prettier as ever.

Bonus Tip: Change For Yourself, But Be Yourself

These tips would definitely not work if you can’t wear what you are. No matter what the outfit is, your personality is what would stand out the most. Your personality is what dresses you up more than what you are wearing. Cheers and Happy Holidays!

Meet The Model Behind The January 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Dashing Cristian Sahdalá

Cristian Sahdalá is a model and a professional skydiver who hails from the Caribbean living in Nashville, Tennessee – he’s an owner of a commercial cleaning franchise in Nashville.

Sahdalá’s life has always been about modeling and taking care of his body but lately, he’s made a huge decision in his life – he has decided to become a professional skydiver. This is a big deal for him because it’s a massive challenge for him to break through the fear of doing something out of the ordinary all by himself since he has never done anything extreme in his life –  in fact, he doesn’t even ride roller coasters. He went from always being afraid and not daring to try anything to jumping out of an airplane from 17000ft above the ground on his first solo jump!

This new venture all started as a personal project of Sahdalá’s. He has always liked taking pictures of himself – he has been doing this for the last 5 years now and then posting the photos on Instagram but this year he realized that all his posts never surpassed the 300-400 likes mark so he started thinking of doing something different to get more engagement in his Instagram account.

So he eventually came up with the idea of taking pictures of himself falling from a flying airplane, so then he’s still modeling but just in a very unique way – his plan is to make the best content on Instagram and be able to show everyone how trying something so terrifying can be such a life-changing experience.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Cristian to discuss his journey in the modelling industry and here’s what went down:

How did you get into the modelling industry?

The reason why I got into modeling is because I love photography as well as photographing myself – that’s my passion.

What do you like most about being a model?

Being able to create content for various clothing brands.

The downside to being a model?

One of the most difficult sacrifices for me is dieting, you always have to look nice and part of that is being in shape.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the modelling industry so far?

Being invited to the New York fashion week.

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

I’ve met Will Smith back in the Caribbean, Dominican Republic.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the modelling industry. 

That modelling surrounded by good people can make this industry more enjoyable.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

They are more supportive of me being a model rather than becoming a skydiver and taking all of that risk.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

Definitely being more dedicated on my social media – posting at least a picture each day.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Focus on your body and health, because you live from it.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

Creating new ways of being a model, doing extreme adventures, and finding unique places around the world.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

Last good movie I’ve seen: The Jungle.

What do you consider beautiful and why? Being able to show your natural side of your beauty because, in the end, that’s what defines and shows who you really are.

What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? Jumping out of a plane without a parachute and landing safely!

Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d…” Learn how to ride a bike because that’s one of my biggest fears.

What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? Being able to take so many big risks, but the best things in life come with risks.

Meet The Rising Star Behind The December 2020 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Amazing Jojo Almazora Sebastian

Jojo is a devoted and compassionate nurse in the Operating Theatre at a busy Metropolitan Hospital in Sydney. However, on weekends, this orthopaedic nurse transforms into a charming and dashing tuxedo attired singer-entertainer and master of ceremony. A veteran of the United States Military Forces, he could be seen regularly in concerts where he performs as a front act for artists both locally and internationally. He is the main staple in the Local and International Pageant in the last 17 years.

Jojo Almazora Sebastian was named the Australian Best Pageant Host in the Australian Golden Sash Awards for both 2019 and 2020. At the beginning of 2020, he was named as the Most Influential Person of the Year and Musician of the Year in Ava’s World Magazine Awards. In the same year, this former University Professor participated in Sydney Sings for Hope Concert for the benefit of the front liners for the Bush Fire that happened in NSW. He also lent his voice in the Heroes of the World Album recording the song “Walang Mahirap sa Buhay” written and arranged by Oliver Gadista.

In July 2020, this former disc jockey of Brother Joe and Pinoy Love Crew represented Australia in the First Virtual Edition of the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA 2020). Furthermore, he will be representing Australia once again in the 25th Year of the World Championship of Performing Arts to be held in California USA in July 2021.

Recently, Jojo was nominated and awarded in the Inaugural Sydney’s Best Dressed due to his good dressing sense and confident personality. Moreover, he released his debut Christmas Album entitled: “Christmas Ain’t Christmas Without You” released 30th October 2020. Furthermore, he has received a nomination for the Manila’s Best Dressed for 2020-2021 to represent Australia in the prestigious Annual Event.

In 2021, Jojo aspires to broaden his horizon as an individual and concentrate on his advocacies he been helping in the past 10 years. His advocacies include the following: (1) children and (2) Volunteerism. For the Children, he continues to support the various charitable institution and fundraised for Sydney Children’s Hospital and Cerebral Palsy Foundation. He also provides scholarships for the less fortunate in the Philippines to continue a college education.

One of the projects he really wanted to concentrate on in 2021 is Community Service by Volunteerism. Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity where an individual or group provides services for no financial gain. Volunteering is often intended to promote goodness or to improve human quality of life. Volunteering may have positive benefits for the volunteer as well as for the person or community served. Jojo highly believes that if our community comes together and volunteer even for just a couple of hours a month under any charitable institution and non-profit organisation – it will make a positive difference in the personal and professional aspects of all individuals involved, especially oneself. He furthers state that he would like for the community to realise to volunteer is a social responsibility of all its member especially to the marginalised and disadvantaged.

Consequently, Jojo was just also declared a finalist in the Mister Diamond International Australia 2021 which will be held in April 2021. Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Jojo and here’s what went down:

1. How did you decide to be a professional MC? Who or what inspired you?

Back in my elementary days, I was very active in participating in school programs and events. And it seems like I always get the task of either performing, managing, and/or hosting each event. And as I grew up, and reached high school, I eased into the role. Because I was always tapped to host school functions which include pageantry. My classmate then started inviting me to host their debut celebration which came natural to me since I was confident enough to speak in public. As time passed by, the hosting invitations became more frequent, so I decided to become professional. As they say, when you start getting paid you are turning professional. One of my inspirations in pursuing and honing my hosting skills is my mother – Josephine Sebastian. She is very natural, witty, and entertaining. I definitely got my abilities and talents from my mom.

2. What was your first big break in the industry? How did it feel?

My first big break in the industry in Australia is when I was given the opportunity to host Miss and Mrs. Sydney Charity 2017 produced by FACAES. Even though this was relatively considered a small pageant, however, this paved the way for me to return to hosting pageantry. I totally have missed the adrenaline rush of being on stage and helping each finalist shine on stage. It felt great. It felt like I was actually back somewhere familiar like I consider the stage my second home.

3. What is your dream MCing job?

Besides hosting the Miss Earth Australia 2021, I would love to host an international pageant such as Mrs. Universe if it gets held here in Sydney. That would be another level. For sure it will be a great experience to go through.

4. Who are your favorite MC’s?

I love the hosting skills of Ryan Seacrest and wit of Steve Harvey.

5. If you weren’t an MC, what would you do within the entertainment industry?

Besides being an artist which I am pursuing now. I believed I would have pursued my passion for acting. However, the acting bug kinda left me and the singing bug stayed. I recently released my Christmas Album entitled “Christmas ain’t Christmas Without You” produced by Mr. Oliver Gadista of Mojo Studios. I do hope to pursue singing and recording in the coming year 2021.

6. How do you stay fit and healthy? What’s your exercise regime?

I ensure that I stay active all week. Being a registered nurse, it is imperative that I keep fit and healthy. Although it is difficult because of my rotating schedule. However, you just need to make time. I do a lot of cardio because it helps me with my vocals as well.

7. Is there much work around for MC’s?

Honestly, there is more than meets the eye. You need to actually learn more than just your lines. It takes more than just reading from the script. What I have learned is that you need to become the light of the program. Because as an MC you will be tasked to keep the phase and momentum of the program from beginning until the end. So as I am preparing for a show, I ensure that I get more information than what was needed. This helps me prepare myself for adlibs and reacting accordingly when there are minor difficulties and problems encountered during the show.

8. When you’re not busy being an MC, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I love to paint. All my hosting gig was canceled and placed on hold this year due to the health pandemic since March. And I discovered my love to create through painting. I also love to plant, it seems that I inherited my dad’s (Jaime Sebastian) green thumb.

9. How do you relax?

To relax I do various things. It includes painting, gardening, singing, meditating but especially getting a relaxation massage.

10. What is your go-to everyday outfit?

I have found myself increasingly busier in the last few months with singing, nursing, and hosting work. I feel like I am constantly running around Blacktown to Sydney and everywhere in between. When this happens, my go-to outfit is usually a pair of RM Willaims, black jeans, a button-up short sleeve, and a nice jacket… Super comfy- but not exactly “trendy”.

11. Given the competitiveness and the speed of the industry, how do you ensure you stand out?

I keep myself current by keeping my skills in check and ensuring that my information is up to date. I also love doing and trying new things when it comes to hosting. By doing so, you keep yourself in front of the industry. Keeping current does not mean totally forgetting your foundation, instead, you just need to hone your new skills set with your foundation and evolve into your own unique style.

5 Ways to Achieve Perfect Skin and Gorgeous Hair

Do you ever wonder how your co-worker always has fantastic hair and skin? Her secret is a customized skin and hair care routine. There are five basic care techniques required for that perfect look.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

Both your skin and your hair need moisturizing. Drink plenty of water, use hydrating skincare products and hydrating conditioner. Last, ask your stylist to recommend the type of hair product to use based on your hair. The options are paste, fiber, wax, putty, and clay. Learn what each option does to match the product to the desired result.

Create a Skin Care Routine Customized to Your Needs

The first step in creating a skincare routine is to determine your skin type. If it is dry, oily, combination, or aging, you will need products designed for that type. You need a cleanser, hydrating cream, and then moisturizer to lock the moisture in place.

Face masks are wonders. They allow the product to stay on the skin long enough to get the product’s full effectiveness. Finally, steaming, saunas or hot yoga opens up the pores and are a great time to follow up with a detoxing mask.

Protect Your Skin and Hair from Damage

An easily forgotten element is to protect your skin and hair from dehydration and damage. The basics are to use proper sunscreen, follow your skincare routine, and keep your hair clean. Use a detangling brush to limit breakage and only use UV or heated tools sparingly.

Add Beautiful Luster, Shine and Youth

Besides regular washing and hydrating, there are other steps to take to project the best image., When rubbing creams into your face, do so in an upward motion. If needed, use ice water to reduce swelling. Limit hair washing to twice a week.

Shampoo removes impurities and oils, but also good oils and minerals. If you need to remove dirt or oil more often, a water rinse or dry shampoo works fine.

If you have damaged hair, a small bit of hair oil will go a long way to prevent dehydration and keep stray hairs down.

Apply conditioner before a workout and only mid-length and on the ends of your hair. Putting it on the scalp will make your hair greasier. Rinse it out after your workout for hydrated, shiny hair.

Remove Dirt and Impurities

Follow the recommended use of cleansers as simply spreading and rinsing is not sufficient to remove impurities. For additional assistance, pimple patches are great. They pull out impurities and stick them to the patch. If a rinse will not remove extra hair products, use conditioner between shampoos.

Have the Proper Tools

Use different brushes for thick, coarse, curly, fine, colored, oily, or African or Caribbean hair. Get the one you need, not your roommates. Also, have a different brush for each purpose, such as drying and styling.

Now you are set to outshine that annoyingly perfect co-worker. Work this into your overall self-care routine, so it becomes a habit. Once set, you will not forget to do the task.