These fresh faces aren’t just models; they include a polyglot, an aspiring restaurateur, and all-around captivating individuals who also happen to slay on camera.
CHARLEIGH DUBOIS
Charleigh wears Celine by Hedi Slimane nylon twill cropped bomber jacket, embroidered lace crop top, lambskin mini skirt, Marco calfskin belt with strass, Heloise Cuir Triomphe calfskin hobo bag, and Bulky shearling and suede calfskin boots with matching tassels, Celine
Name: Charleigh Dubois
Age: 16
Ethnicity: “I am half French, and half Eurasian and Chinese; born and raised in Singapore.”
Agency: Basic Models Management
Her Instagram and TikTok handle: @charleigh773
Her star sign: “I’m an Aquarius. After seeing this question, I searched up on the web for the personality traits of an Aquarius and saw among them ‘open mindedness’ and ‘creativity’, which I do resonate with. I am a literature student and have learnt to be open to different perspectives. But I do not believe in horoscopes.”
How she would describe herself: “I am passionate about food and fitness, and very comfortable in a kitchen – much more than most teens my age.”
What she does besides modelling: “I am a secondary four student who will be doing my O-level examinations this year.”
How she was discovered: “ I attended one of the catwalk classes held by Basic Academy (the training arm of Basic Models Management) as my mum wanted me to improve my posture. It was there where Elise, one of the agency scouts, spotted me and called me up later in the year for a closed casting. I signed with the agency in September 2023.”
Her first modelling job: “It was for the local shoes and accessories brand Pazzion and took place this January. The first thing I told myself when I first learnt that I had booked it was that I need to practise my poses and be well-prepared for a full day of work. I was really excited to be on set and to work with clients, and my training at Basic definitely helped me.”
On getting this editorial job with FEMALE: “I read the text message from my booker about getting this job out loud to my mum because it’s my first editorial job so I was really excited.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “Open mindedness and the willingness to try new challenges. It’s only through trying out different things that one can discover his or her strengths.”
Her favourite model: “Alex Consani – she is really funny and I love how she reveals through her social media accounts the behind-the-scenes of the industry while having fun.”
Charleigh wears cotton jacket and polyester blend pants, Hugo. Boot, stylist’s own
What she thinks is her X-factor as a model: “That I am mixed race and tanned skin – there are not enough brown models in the Singapore modelling industry and I am thankful to be able to showcase what makes me different through this.”
Her interests and hobbies: “I really enjoy reading and running.”
Her pet peeve: “ I really don’t like people who bend the spines of their books – even if the books belong to them.”
Something interesting about her: “I’ve played the piano for the past 13 years.”
A song that represents her: Candy Paint by Post Malone
A cause she stands for: “I do not like racism and I will not hesitate to call people out for it.”
Someone she looks up to: “Kai Ying – a character from A Hundred Flowers by Gail Tsukiyama, a book that I’m studying for my O-levels. She is a very strong character and shows her personality through her skills as an herbalist.”
What makes her happy: “Socialising with my friends during recess and getting my hands on a book that I really want to read”
VIVIANA GALDI
Viviana wears polyester dress and matching pants, Kenzo
Name: Viviana Galdi – “My nickname is Vivi. My grandparents used to call me when I was a child and it’s since become an intimate nickname used by family and friends.”
Age: 21
Ethnicity: Italian-Chinese – “My parents met in China and moved to Singapore for business. Although I don’t have official citizenship, I’ve been raised here for most of my life so I identify myself as a Singaporean.”
Agency: Basic Models Management
Her Instagram and TikTok handle: @vivianagaldi
Her star sign: “Aquarius. I resonate with the Aquarius traits of enjoying independence and having autonomy, and I enjoy reading up on astrology, but find horoscopes overgeneralise.”
How she was discovered: “I got signed during Basic Models Management’s annual open casting in November 2022. I had actually tried out for it back in 2018 when I was 15, but was rejected then.”
Her first modelling job: “The look books for the Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year collections of local jewellery label By Invite Only. I booked the job in December 2022 – when I was still a trainee at Basic.”
On getting this editorial job with FEMALE: “Although this shoot isn’t my first job as a model, it’s my first editorial. I was incredibly thrilled to have booked it and did a little dancey-dance around my parents when I got the news. It’s a milestone for me.”
What she hopes to achieve as a model: “Ultimately, I hope to gain enough exposure to be able to build a platform where I’m not only seen for my looks, but also my passions and what I have to say.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “I believe a top model should be strong-minded yet adaptable and humble.”
What she thinks is her X-factor as a model: “That most of the time, others can’t tell where I’m from. I’ve had people guess that I’m Columbian or Uyghur. I think I could bring some diversity to the industry – and perhaps a little mystery.”
Viviana wears cady crepe wool silk dress, Gucci
Complete this sentence.: If I weren’t a model… “I’d still try to be one and go for castings (hahaha).”
Her interests and hobbies: “I find myself having many growing interests and some hobbies I’ve picked up are pole-dancing, singing, piano, guitar, street jazz, surfing, DJing, muay thai, and hopefully many more to come.”
Something interesting about her: “I know about five languages: English, Chinese, Italian, Japanese and a little Spanish. I have the ability to code switch anytime too and like to confuse my friends by randomly switching up my accent during my conversations with them.”
Someone she looks up to: “My dad Gabriele Galdi. He left home and crossed the world at the age of 17 to start his business ventures. I respect his courage and independence, leaving everything he knew behind at that young age to start afresh. I aspire to be that fearless some day.”
What makes her happy: “I find joy in simple things such as getting my daily coffee fix in the morning, having home-cooked food, or hitting 10K steps on my smartwatch, but I’m happiest when I get to spend time with family and friends, and do things that I love.”
SILAS KIRSH PHILIP
Silas wears wool tweed coat, cotton poplin shirt, nylon-blend beanie, cotton socks and B9S Skater tweed and rubber sneakers, Dior
Name: Silas Kirsh Philip – “ If I had to go by another name, it would weirdly enough have to be Victor. I’m not sure why, but to me, Victor Kirsh has a nice ring. Fun fact: It’s what I go by on my spam accounts on social media.”
Age: 21
Ethnicity: Indian
Agency: Mannequin Studio
His Instagram and TikTok handle: @silaskirsh
Something interesting about him: “I’ve always had a passion for art and still believe that in the later part of my life, I’d pick up the paintbrush again.”
Silas wears denim shirt, matching pants and LV Trainer Maxi calf leather sneakers, Louis Vuitton. Hat, stylist’s own
A song that represents him: “Start A Riot by The Banners. It’s a love song about a guy who would do everything to keep his loved ones safe.”
Someone he looks up to: “(The 16th-century Japanese swordsman and philosopher) Miyamoto Musashi is one of my greatest inspirations. I learned his teachings through his book The Book Of Five Rings and my biggest takeaway from him would be to view everything from a broader perspective.”
What makes him happy: “My current significant other. I’ve searched for love for some time already, and I believe I have found someone who makes me a better person every day and loves and treasures me day and night.”
What he is most excited about for the future: “Living my life with this significant other and knowing that I will have the privilege to experience all the amazing things life has to offer with her.”
ANTHONY MICHAEL PODOLINSKY
Anthony wears Celine by Hedi Slimane glossy technical gabardine jacket, Lou lambskin jeans and Celine Leon calfskin boots with metal toe caps, Celine
Name: Anthony Michael Podolinsky – “My dad named me after my grandad who fought in World War II as a way of honouring him.”
Age: “I turn 20 in April.”
Ethnicity: Mongolian-American – “My parents met by chance in Singapore through a mutual work friend. As a professional speaker, my dad has to travel a lot and, back then, every time he visited Singapore, he and my mum would go on a date. Eventually, they decided to get married and settle down here.”
Agency: Misc Management
His Instagram handle: @tonypodd
His TikTok handle: @anthonympod (“But please do not expect anything good out of there”)
His star sign: “Aries. As much as I try my best to deny astrology, I keep finding things about Aries that line up too well with me.”
How he would describe himself: “Yes, he does the cooking and sometimes the cleaning.”
Why model and how serious is he taking it as a career: “Modelling is an artform that’s a bit like acting except that one has to communicate all emotions through a single expression. It’s been a huge adjustment going from someone who does not take photos of myself to someone who has to learn how to move and pose in front of the camera. That being said, I’ve been handed an amazing opportunity that I refuse to squander. If I can model, I will do so for as long as I can.”
What he hopes to achieve as a model: “I want to help in as many ways as possible the burgeoning creative scene in Singapore. I also want to make as many friends as possible.”
Anthony wears embellished cotton shirt, mohair wool shorts, cotton socks and brushed leather Derby shoes, Prada
His favourite model: “Daxa – who goes by @haldi_honey on Instagram – is another model who’s signed to Misc, and is also my dear friend and part-time mum whom I look up to a lot. She is driven, hard working and has an insatiable heart for others.”
What he thinks is his X-factor as a model: “I’m not entirely sure because I feel so new to all this, but I hope that should people see something special about me, it would be my creativity and commitment to the job. I also hope to further explore my androgynous side.”
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a model… “I’d look for other creative outlets to express myself.”
His interests and hobbies: “I’ve been playing Dungeons & Dragons for about five years now. I love building worlds and studying actual history to be able to develop them more accurately. I draw sprawling maps of locations that my players will probably never go to and I have hoarded hundreds of dice. I’m also teaching myself baking and cooking because I am always hungry and always broke.”
His pet peeve: “Wooden utensils. I hate the texture – it makes me gag.”
A song that represents him: Two Left Feet by Rasmus Faber feat Öhrn
Someone he looks up to: “My sister Anna, who is currently the student president of her college in the US. She actively fights for diversity on campus and champions representation.”
What makes him happy: “My friends”
LATISHA CUNNINGHAM-BURLEY
Latisha wears silk top and matching skirt; knitted silk lace bra and matching shorts; and Dior Songe grosgrain ballet flats, Dior
Name: Latisha Cunningham-Burley
Age: 16
Ethnicity: Malay-British – “My mum is Singaporean Malay and my Dad is English.”
Agency: Now Model Management
Her Instagram handle: @latisha.burley
Her TikTok handle: @latishaburley
Her star sign: “My star sign is Scorpio. Although I think that I embody the Scorpio traits of being very independent, loyal, passionate, and determined, I don’t believe in horoscopes.”
How she would describe herself: “I am very hardworking and determined, and always put 100 per cent effort into all tasks. I think I am also very mature for my age, which allows me to be understanding and empathetic towards others. Lastly, I am a very shy and introverted person, but once I feel comfortable, I can get very loud.”
What she does besides modelling: “I am a grade 10 student currently enrolled in MYP (the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme).”
How she was discovered: “I met my mum’s friend, the socialite Serene Sorensen, at a party that my mum held and she said my sister and I should try modelling. She then invited us to a fashion show where she introduced us to Addie (the founder of Now Model Management). I visited his agency after and ended up signing with it in July 2023.”
What she hopes to achieve as a model: “To be able to model internationally and travel for the likes of Paris Fashion Week, as well as to gain experience that will help me overcome being shy”
On left: Aisha wears perforated lambskin crop top, lambskin pants, and calfskin sandals wit canvas ribbons. On right: Latisha wears technical silk mesh bra top, perforated lambskin skirt and calfskin sandals. All Hermes
Her first modelling job: “The Golden Scissor Hair show where I modelled for the hairstylist Ken Hong, who’s known for his creativity. It took place in October 2023 and it was very fun.”
On getting this editorial job with FEMALE: “I was very happy because I have always wanted to be in a magazine.”
Her favourite model: “Bella Hadid not only because she’s been able to become very successful alongside her sister, but also because she’s used her platforms to spread awareness about global issues. I also like that she and her sister are both models – just like me and my sister Aisha.”
What she thinks is her X-factor as a model: “My determination to be successful and to make those who help me along the way proud.”
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a model… “I would want to be a CEO.”
Her pet peeves: “People who disregard personal space, and people with bad manners.”
Something interesting about her: “I can play multiple sports: volleyball, swimming, track and field, football, gymnastics, netball, and dance.”
A song that represents her: All The Stars by Kendrick Lamar and SZA
A cause she stands for: “I’m against ocean pollution and am currently in a club in school called Waves of Change. We do beach clean-ups and raise money to donate to organisations.”
Someone she looks up to: “My mum because she’s raised my siblings and I very well and has maintained a close bond with each of us. Even during hard times in her life, she stayed strong and prioritised her loved ones.”
What makes her happy: “Being able to give to others and making them happy – whether it’s an actual gift or working hard and making others proud of my achievements”
AISHA CUNNINGHAM-BURLEY
Name: Aisha Cunningham-Burley
Age: 17
Ethnicity: Malay British
Agency: Now Model Management
Her Instagram handle: @aishacburley
Her TikTok handle: @aisha.burley
Her star sign: “Cancer – I resonate with the nurturing, sensitive, and intuitive characteristics that are often associated with this sign.”
How she would describe herself: “I’m recognised for my cheerful and pleasant demeanour, and I’d like to think that I make people feel comfortable and appreciated.”
Her profession besides modelling: “I am a Grade 12 student currently undertaking the second year of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.”
How she was discovered: “I was first discovered by the bookers at Now in June 2023 at a fashion show that my mum’s friend whom I call auntie Serene had invited my sister and I to. I signed with Now three months later in August.”
What she hopes to achieve as a model: “As a model, my aspirations extend beyond the runway. I aim to harness my modelling career to cultivate self-confidence and become more adaptable and versatile. I also hope to be able to inspire others and through my work, challenge conventional beauty standards, promote diversity, and advocate for inclusivity within the fashion industry.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “Confidence and authenticity because models serve as role models and can shape perceptions of beauty and self worth.”
Aisha wears cotton-blend boucle dress and Atomic calfskin sandals, Bottega Veneta
Her favourite model: “Gigi Hadid. I admire her for her extraordinary versatility, confidence, and genuine charm. She navigates seamlessly between high fashion runways and commercial campaigns, and pushes boundaries. Beyond her stunning looks, Gigi uses her platform to champion important causes such as body positivity and mental health awareness, solidifying herself as a role model. Moreover, her close relationship with her sister resonates with me, reminding me of the special bond I share with my own younger sister Latisha.”
What does she think is her X-factor as a model: “My positive attitude. I’d like to think that I bring enthusiasm and a vibrant energy to every shoot, and help foster a collaborative and enjoyable atmosphere.”
Alternative career if modelling doesn’t pan out: “I would pursue a career as an architect. I’ve always been fascinated by its intersection of creativity and practicality, and the opportunity to design spaces that enhance lives excites me.”
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a model… “I would be a professional athlete.”
Her interests and hobbies: “I’m quite active and enjoy playing sports. And spending quality time with my friends is something I always look forward to.”
Her pet peeves: “I find inconsistency and lack of punctuality frustrating. I also dislike dishonesty and people who are inconsiderate of others’ feelings or boundaries.”
A song that represents her: Chemical By Post Malone
Someone she looks up to: “I deeply admire my mother for her unwavering strength and independence. She single handedly cares for my siblings and I, demonstrating the true meaning of sacrifice and resilience. She inspires me to overcome obstacles with grace and determination, and serves as a guiding light in life, shaping my values and aspirations. Despite my occasional moodiness or rudeness, she continues to care for me unconditionally.”
MARCUS SIM
Marcus wears Corset nylon and suede bag (deconstructed and worn across chest and hips), and wool pants, Givenchy. Boots, stylist’s own
Name: Marcus Sim
Age: “I’m turning 27 this year.”
Ethnicity: Chinese
Agency: Now Model Management
His Instagram handle: @misucram
His TikTok handle: “It’s non-existent as I don’t post anything on TikTok.”
His star sign: “I’m a Sagittarius. Being humorous is a trait of a Sagittarius and I believe I exhibit that sometimes.”
How he would describe himself: “A creative junkie who enjoys crafting art through various mediums and who takes pleasure in experimenting with diverse and innovative pursuits”
What he does besides modelling: “I’m in the creative industry, working mostly on a project basis and specialising in branding and design. I also recently ventured into the F&B industry and opened a cafe called Oddity Cafe, and an ice cream and waffle place called OddBalls.”
How he was discovered: “I started as a commercial talent and a model I met from a commercial shoot in December 2023 introduced me to Now. I was inspired by what he had shared about the work of a model so I emailed the agency the next day. A few days later, the bookers at Now invited me to their office and I signed with them the same day.”
His first modelling job: “This shoot! Damn, I actually got it.”
What he hopes to achieve as a model: “I hope to become more established as a fashion model and consistently model for editorials, eventually venturing into runway modelling.”
Marcus wears embroidered cotton-blend tweed top with beads, cotton-blend tweed shorts, Saddle Soft tweed bag, cotton socks and Skater tweed and rubber sneakers, Dior
What he thinks makes a top model: “While industry standards emphasise height and well-built features, having determination and self-discipline remains crucial for success.”
What he thinks is his X-factor as a model: “I do breaking (more commonly known as breakdancing) so I tend to understand shape and body movement a little better than most people.”
Alternative career if modelling doesn’t pan out: “Creative director. I’m in tune with art and design so I naturally shift towards this line of work.”
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a model… “I would not be moisturising my face as much.”
His interests and hobbies: “I am into design; art – mainly illustrations – and photography; dance, anime, cooking and eating.”
His pet peeve: “Being late without accountability”
A song that represents him: “I have several, but among them is Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Despite being a love song, its essence revolves around enduring life’s highs and lows.”
A cause he stands for: “I advocate for racial and social justice, and I believe the impact of even the smallest actions. I’ve contributed through donations and learned to speak up against racial discrimination.”
Someone he looks up to: “I look up to my wife as her confidence and knowledge got me to where I am today.”
The best thing about being young: “Being able to do reckless things without feeling that they’re reckless.”
The worst thing about being young: “Lacking life experience, but thinking you know it all.”
What makes him happy: “Art, food and cultured milk”
JANELLE TAN
Janelle wears suede coat, crepe de chine dress, cashmere sweater, cashmere knit polo shirt, and New Balance X Miu Miu 530 SL suede sneakers, Miu Miu
Name: Janelle Tan – “My nickname is Beanz. It started because of this one photo in which I was wearing a beanie and my sister thought I looked like a bean in it.”
Age: 18
Ethnicity: Chinese
Agency: Basic Models Management
Her Instagram and TikTok handle: @janelletmx
Her star sign: “I’m a pisces. I’ve heard Pisces are known to be quite imaginative and I can be a bit of ‘delulu’ sometimes.”
How she would describe herself: “I am a fun and outgoing extrovert who loves meeting people and trying new things.”
How she was discovered: “I was street scouted by Basic Models in August last year and got signed in December after the agency’s open casting and training programme.”
Her first modelling job: “This editorial job with FEMALE! The first thing I told myself when I got it was to have fun with it! I was super excited as I’ve always wanted to work with FEMALE.”
What she hopes to achieve as a model: “I definitely hope that I can walk in Fashion Week one day and secure more editorial jobs with international fashion magazines. Ultimately I hope to try out every aspect of modelling – from runway to magazines to e-commerce and commercials.”
What she thinks makes a top model: “I think a top model should be kind and genuine. Modelling is so much more than just posing in front of a camera. You work with many people who are behind the camera and it’s important to always treat everyone with respect.”
Her favourite model: “Yoon Young Bae. Surprisingly, many people have told me that I look a lot like her. I’m just obsessed with her look and style.”
Janelle wears Sportmax bonded technical wool coat and nappa leather thong boots, Max Mara
What she thinks is her X-factor as a model: “I’ve been told that my look is half editorial and half commercial face and that gives me some versatility and room to experiment.”
Alternative career if modelling doesn’t pan out: “I have always wanted to be a surgeon. I love helping people and think that being a doctor would be exciting because I get to work with many people and handle different cases every day.”
Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a model… “I would open a bubble tea store.”
Her interests and hobbies: “Recently I have been obsessed with yoga and working out. They make my favourite self care activity and allow me to get away from all the chaos that comes with school and work. On top of that, I love crocheting and watching movies.”
Her pet peeve: “Loud chewing.”
Something interesting about her: “I used to do gymnastics competitively for 11 years.”
A song that represents her: Bejeweled by Taylor Swift.
A cause she stands for: “Environmental stability. My sisters and I recycle our clothes yearly and actively try to reduce waste.”
Someone she looks up to: “Bridgit Mendler. I really admire how she juggles being an actress, singer-songwriter, businesswoman and mother. She is such a successful individual and stars in one of my favourite TV series, Good Luck Charlie.”
The best thing about being young: “The world is your oyster, and you can be whoever you want to be without worrying about settling down.”
The worst thing about being young: “Feeling underestimated or not being taken seriously by older individuals.”
What makes her happy: “Doing yoga and trying different cuisines.”
PRODUCTION PANG JIA WEI PHOTOGRAPHY MARISSE CAINE STYLING DAMIAN HUANG PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT NATE NG HAIR & MAKEUP KEITH BRYANT LEE, USING EVIN.MURPHY & GUCCI BEAUTY
This article first appeared in the April 2024 Art Book of FEMALE
