Today we’d like to introduce you to Ebonie Raspberry.
Ebonie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
On an average day, as a young girl, I would wake up, dress up, sing, dance, and play with makeup regularly. I had an affinity for anything that sparkled or shined. I don’t believe I was drawn to it, it was a part of me from the very start. My first desire was to be the next “Whitney Houston.” But fear and lack of opportunity left me empty and doubtful of my abilities as a singer. So, off to college like every other good girl and boy I went. It was during this time, I discovered that I might be able to model. And frankly, I liked it. So, I started taking pictures with my boyfriend/photographer. Soon, it was a fire that was raging out of control. I wanted to model. And I was ready.
At least, I thought I was. Until I discovered that being a dark-skinned wide nose black girl would not get me there. Sure, I lucked up on a few magazine ads and cosmetic commercials, but no one took a serious interest in me. And then, it happened. The “you don’t have the look” conversation, which killed any motivation of esteem that I had built up from the small local work I had done. And so, I said I was done.
Fast forward 20 years and a walk through the local mall. My interest was back again. So, I began taking pictures and walking in a few shows. I realized I had something more to offer as others sought out my advice and help. And the “girl how do you walk like that’ statements were regular for me. As a lifelong entrepreneur and my refreshed desire in modeling, the movement that is ModelEvolve began.
But, it did not begin as M.E. First, it was named ModelInColour. The premise behind this venture was to take on the traditional zombie-like appearance that we often see in high fashion and couture and add some color to it. In addition, I always thought how sad it is that the industry only talks about the top 5 %; the supermodel. But what about the remaining 95% of us in the business? What is there for us?
The Model Immersion Experience (ModelEvolve), is a 5-day program created to provide a celebrity like experiences. Its attendee’s, models and potential models have an opportunity to participate in life-like activities that allow them to showcase their talents and skills while learning from celebrity sponsors and featured guests.
This program is 4 years in the making, 3 of which I consider successful. And this year, with almost 100 registrations appears to be the best year yet! This is an experience that I would have wanted as a young artist. A place that is judgment free and allows me to be fabulous and learn from those who have already been where I wanted to go.
Has it been a smooth road?
Obstacles? What are those? lol! There were many obstacles. And there will be many more. The biggest obstacle is hiring like-minded individuals to help build ModelEvolve into the mega Model Immersion Experience that I imagine it could be. It really is the first of its kind. I intend to take this movement nationally.
People also have major trust issues with local businesses. If you don’t have a large brand or brand name recognition, it’s difficult to get people to trust that you will deliver on the promises made. My program offers 5 days of complete immersion in the best of experiences a model can have like using a green screen and taking pictures in ten different sets! The desire is there! That proof is in the number of registrations. There are other programs that cost three times as much and offers way less, and yet the name recognition allows them to be nationwide.
I want ModelEvolve to set a new standard in model-based programs.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
The Model Immersion Experience, (ModelEvolve), is a 5-day program created to provide a celebrity like experiences. Its attendee’s, models and potential models have an opportunity to participate in life-like activities that allow them to showcase their talents and skills while learning from celebrity sponsors and featured guests.
We intend to set a new standard for model programs.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Is there any other city to start this movement other than South Florida? We are now tasked with convincing the city and the region that this will be the most talked about and sought after camp nationwide within the next 3 years?
Pricing:
- 5 day program $599
- 2 day program $199
- Everyone else 1500 and up!
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.modelevolve.com
- Phone: 754-214-6564
- Email: admin@modelevolve.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/modelevolve
- Facebook: facebook.com/modelevolve
Image Credit:
Shawn Brooks Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
