Afraa Kori
Models from a range of diverse backgrounds are getting the training and opportunity to join the fashion industry thanks to mentor Tina Mukasa.
Tina recently announced her beauty pageant and modelling academy, Miss Diverse Australia (MDA), will host a runway show in November.
Tina has received a flood of applications from aspiring models in Melbourne’s west, including from young hopefuls in Werribee, Truganina, Tarneit and Point Cook.
“Thirty plus models have been successfully selected to participate in the MDA runway show in 2024. All genders and cultures have applied for the runway, however there are more women who have applied. We have models who are enquiring about our service overseas, particularly New Zealand and Africa,” Tina said.
As a qualified modelling, pageant and confidence coach, Tina understands that preparation is the foundation for success and is currently training models in Truganina.
“My passion for modelling and pageant motivates me to travel from Shepparton to Melbourne,” she said.
“The training program is ongoing, however the frequency for the group training and workshops are once a month for now.
“I have helped models to build confidence by reminding them to keep embracing their individuality and letting go of the fear of judgement from other models brands, designers, photographers etc. In addition to this, I have assisted models to set some boundaries and encouraging them to speak up if something isn’t right or feeling unsafe.”
As part of the runway, Tina has joined forces with hairstylists, makeup artists, photographers and videographers across Melbourne.
It also features emerging, independent, and established fashion designers and brands, with an ongoing celebration of diverse cultures.
Fashion fans can look forward to a red carpet, performances, open bar, live music, 360 camera, scouting agency and judges.
Tina’s childhood dream of making a mark in the fashion, modelling and pageant has now become a reality with MDA runway.
MDA was launched because of the setbacks and rejections she experienced in the industry, but Tina is grateful that her support system has never failed her.
“I was so blessed to have a supportive father and siblings who saw potential and believed in my vision. My journey has been rewarding, but most importantly creating more opportunities for models, small businesses, brands, designers, makeup artists and hairstylists to showcase their talents on the runway show on Sunday the 24th of November 2024.”
What sets Miss Diverse Australia apart is that it doesn’t just preach representation, it practises it.
“Models have the opportunity in the pageant runway to wear their cultural attire on the stage. At MDA we embrace all cultures, ages, size, height, gender and religion which makes us unique,“ Tina said.
“Representation is a must and matters in the modelling and pageant industry. It will impact models and the wider community to see a former refugee who faced all the setbacks and originated Miss Diverse Australia. A positive impact due to MDA inclusiveness and a culturally safe environment where models can be themselves, embrace their differences, build confidence and become more comfortable on the runway stage, training and workshops.”
Werribee model, Mariamo Mitungi is a testament that opportunities are available for Muslim women.
“I’ve always loved fashion and wanted to do modelling and pageantry since a little girl but never thought I’d have the opportunity due to being a Muslim female but as more culturally diverse opportunities have become available my passion to be an example to others to pursue their dreams through something that I am passionate about myself grew. When meeting Tina through modelling and learning about Tina’s coaching and what opportunities she is creating for others I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of and represent,“ Mariamo said.
“My goals in the modelling and pageant world is firstly to show myself that despite all the challenges life has brought, by staying true to me and my passions, I’m here doing what I’ve always wanted to do and with that, live out the goal to show other Muslim woman that you can be a pageantry model without disrespecting your beliefs and core values.
“It feels good to be a part of something that includes everyone and embraces individuality no matter the size, culture, skin colour, as we are all equal and treated as such. I hope to bring other Muslim girls with the same interests the opportunity to be involved in a company that doesn’t just focus on diversity and inclusivity but embraces self confidence.
“MDA advocates and focuses on ‘being you’ and puts actions to back this up by supporting and encouraging those to show/express themselves in their own individual way,” she said.
MDA will take place on Sunday 24 November in Melbourne. The venue and tickets will be released at the end of September.
MDA applications are still open and models are encouraged to apply, regardless of their age, size, height, gender, religion and culture.
Link to apply: missdiverseaustralia.com.au
