Just Green – Bringing the music to #ProjectScouted

No party is a party without music and every #ProjectScouted phase almost always turns into an event of note. #ProjectScouted is proud to present Just Green, the deep house DJ who will be bringing the vibe and setting the atmosphere while the cameras click and memories are made. He will also be playing this coming Saturday, 28 February, at #Hashtag Social Restaurant and Bar as the Project hits off with the launch and Phase One. Brother to Ryan Francis, owner and designer at Shoelaced Clothing – another integral role-player in the Project – Deon, aka Just Green, has a passion for DJ’ing that is clearly evident when he speaks about it.

Lee Folkard Photography: The name “Just Green”; where did that come from and why have you steered away from using the “DJ” prefix?

Just Green: My favourite DJ is Green Jnr. and he has been a big inspiration to me as a DJ. I have a similar style of mixing as him so I just thought that “Just Green” would be a cool name. He’s also a Durban guy.

LFP: Where did your love of music and DJ’ing come from?

Just Green: When I was about 15 or 16 years old, I just fell in love with music. I had a pretty tough childhood and music was what kept me going and started to inspire me. I come from “Wenties” where there’s a lot of gangsterism so music was also what kept me out of trouble.

LFP: Why did you veer towards deep house music?

Just Green: I found that deep house was like an escape for me. I found my happy place when I listened to deep house. I just love it and the way it makes me feel and that’s how I want people to feel when they listen to my music. If it wasn’t for my mentor Linda Jacobs though, I would probably have been an RnB DJ. Haha!

LFP: You play a lot of gigs for free. How come?

Just Green: I love the music and I think it should be accessible to everyone. I don’t like to charge for gigs. I also post a lot of stuff online for people to download for free because I just want them to enjoy the music. That’s what it’s all about.

LFP: What has been your proudest moment as a DJ?

Just Green: I opened a free DJ school in 2011 which ran until 2013. I wanted to reach out to kids, especially in bad areas. We went from using a little tin enclosure to being given a garage to use because it became a safe place for kids to have a good time and learn about music and DJ’ing.

LFP: What has been your most memorable moment as a DJ?

Just Green: I got to go on an international tour in 2013 with some of the best DJ’s in the business like Sahin Meyer and André Lodemann. These guys are my mentors and it was just an awesome experience for me, something I will never forget!

LFP: What makes you different from other DJs?

Just Green: I am completely old school. I still use the old school stuff and I still use vinyl records. I believe that when you DJ, the music should be in its purest form.

LFP: Creativity definitely runs in the family! What was it like growing up with Ryan?

Just Green: I just want everyone to know that Ryan started Shoelaced by cutting up my clothes! Haha! I am so proud of him and what he’s achieved! He was a cool brother growing up, super chilled, and he still is now.

Just Green is one of the humblest guys around and we are so keen for the music he will be bringing to us during the Project. If you needed another reason to join us at one (or all) of the phases, this is it!

The awesome #ProjectScouted sponsors – Brendon Kader, co-owner of #Hashtag Social Restaurant and Bar and Dental Fix

Durban entrepreneur, Brendon Kader, is not just innovative when it comes to his business ventures, but also generous. #Hashtag Social Restaurant and Bar was one of the main venues used in last year’s Project and will be again this year. Having held the Open Casting here on 21 February, the first phase and the launch of the Project will take place on 28 February here as well. As Brendon put it, combining #Hashtag and #ProjectScouted is really a “no-brainer”. And also to keep up the girls winning smiles, Brendon has also brought his new enterprise Dental Fix into the mix.

1.    Having hosted #ProjectScouted at #Hashtag last year, what made you want to come back this year and bring another of your companies on board as a sponsor?

The founder of #ProjectScouted, Lee Folkard, and I have always had a good relationship when it comes to his crazy ideas surrounding photography and events. #Hashtag is a venue for all things social, put those two together and it’s a no-brainer really. We couldn’t not be a part of the Project again this year!

2.    How did you get involved in the Project last year?

#Hashtag was a venue for one of the first shoots, where we provided the girls and crew with food and drinks as well as a DJ to set the mood on the Saturday morning. At the end of the Project, we also had all the guys back for a prize-giving and party.

3.    What do you think is the best aspect of the Project?

This platform allows for aspiring young ladies to get a taste of the modelling industry working with some of Durban’s most talented photographers.

4.    What was the inspiration behind opening #Hashtag?

Times are changing; people don’t want the same thing anymore. Clubbers are no longer, they have evolved into Socialites, who do things differently. Food, fun and “dance if you want to” are the ways of the world now. So we’ve tried to combine online with offline and give Durban a fresh approach to a night out.

5.    And the inspiration behind Dental Fix?

We saw a gap in the market with regards to dental practice in the city and decided to open our own dental franchise called Dental Fix. Our first practise opens on 1^st March 2015 at Shop 47e Almill Centre, 47 Ashley Avenue, Glenashley. We plan on opening 5 additional practices in 2015.

6.    The girls and scouts are going to be ecstatic to hear of the prizes you will be sponsoring at each phase of the Project. Would you like to reveal anything about those prizes?

Dental Fix is giving away a cleaning to each phase winner and their scout. Once the Project is concluded, we will give a teeth whitening procedure to the overall winner and their scout.

7.    What is a typical day like for you? How do you balance everything?

I don’t. It balances me. I guess the only way to explain it, is prioritizing. Do what needs doing now, NOW. There is no other way.

8.    Do you have any surprises coming up for Durban? Any new ventures on the horizon?

All I will say is; watch this space, there is a lot in the pipe line.

You definitely don’t want to miss out on Phase One and the launch of the Project happening at #Hashtag on 28 February starting at 14:00 with Just Green on the decks providing the music!

Capturing the moments of #ProjectScouted in motion - Videographer, Tayla-Rae Coetzer

Tayla-Rae Coetzer, a film student at AFDA currently in her third year studying Directing and Scriptwriting, will be heading into the industry next year to pursue her dream of working as a director. As a couple, Tayla and Stefan Rust will be working together behind the scenes to create some of the #ProjectScouted videos that will capture the essence of what the Project is.

1.     What sparked your interest in videography?

I am interested in film generally and videography, also known as cinematography. Cinematography captures the image of the story and shows the audience the beauty within the story using moving pictures.

2.     What is the best part for you of the entire process of creating videos?

Capturing the unexpected is my favourite part of it all; the beauty that others may not see. I enjoy looking at images in a different way to other people, it takes time but that is where you find the right image.

3.     How did you hear about #ProjectScouted?

I have been following Lee's Projects for many years via Facebook. Some of my friends have also taken part in the Projects.

4.     What motivated you to become one of the videographers capturing #ProjectScouted?

I have always wanted to be a part of #ProjectScouted. Stefan has also pulled me closer into the world of videography and hopefully being a part of this Project will allow me to learn more.

5.     What are you looking forward to the most in the Project?

I am looking forward to meeting all the different people that

#ProjectScouted brings together, making new friends and possibly people to work with in the future.

6.     What has been your most memorable experience as a videographer?

My most memorable moment was not filming something but photographing it. Waking up at 3am in the morning and heading to the beach to capture the sunrise. I had tons of fun playing around with the settings to get just the right amount of light in to capture the rising of the sun.

7.     Would you advise someone who wants to be a videographer to get a qualification first or to learn on their own?

I would suggest a qualification because it is always best to have a Degree behind you. While studying you will learn things that you are unable to teach yourself. You also meet people that are interested in the same things that you are and make contacts for the future.

Stay in the loop by following the #ProjectScouted Instagram account as well as keeping active on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Even if you aren’t at a phase, there’s still a way for you to be a part of this amazing experience. The Project will officially kick off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch held at #Hashtag Social Restaurant and Bar on Windermere Road, which will also be filmed by Tayla. Remember that all shoots and events are open to the public at no cost!

Capturing the #ProjectScouted moments in motion - Videographer, Stefan Rust

Art becomes even more meaningful when there is a story behind it from the one creating it. Joining the #ProjectScouted videography team is Stefan Rust, currently in his 3^rd year studying Directing and Scriptwriting at AFDA Film School, who triumphed over illness through willpower and his love of watching and making movies.

1.     What inspired your passion for videography?

After I matriculated, I attended a local summer film school for 4 weeks and fell completely in love with film as it just had a magical aspect to it. Film has always been a passion for me and also a life-support as in 2012 I was diagnosed with bone cancer and battled with it for 3 years. What got me through it was making and watching movies. It gave me a reason to live and it made me happy.

2.     What do you enjoy the most in the entire process of creating videos?

What I enjoy the most is being able to work with talented teammates to create something that we have all worked so hard on and seeing it come to life. It is one of the most rewarding things I could experience.

3.     How did you hear about #ProjectScouted?

I came across #ProjectScouted when a friend of mine was asked to be a photographer for the Project.

4.     What motivated you to become one of the videographers capturing #ProjectScouted?

I’m new to Durban and the creative world here, so I think it would be a great opportunity to meet other talented artists that live here and get to know them.

5.     What are you looking forward to the most in the Project?

I’m looking forward to meeting new and interesting people and also creating something special for each phase of the Project with a behind-the-scenes look into what goes on in creating this journey.

6.     Do you have a specific style of videography? How would you describe that style?

I think I have a rhythmic style with my event videos as I believe that bringing music into film can just bring it to life and just create something so vibrant and colourful keeping the audience captivated. I try keeping the visuals and audio at a constant tempo so they complement each other making the combination smooth and enjoyable.

7.     What advice would you give to someone wanting to become a videographer?

Well, I’d say just shoot and edit as much as you can because you can only get better. And also life is short… Do what makes you happy.

Keep active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for everything #ProjectScouted. Even if you happen to miss a phase, there’s still a way for you to be a part of the experience. The Project will officially kick off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch held at #Hashtag Social Restaurant and Bar on Windermere Road. Remember that all shoots and events are open to the public at no cost!

The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Our Instagrammer, Dalton Green

It may surprise you to know that Dalton Green, one of our Instagram photographers for this cycle of #ProjectScouted, covered in some seriously cool body ink, is also a former Mr South Africa semi-finalist. Having a passion for social media, especially Instagram, Dalton is looking forward to being a part of the team to bring some of the behind the scenes moments of the Project to the people.

1.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted & how did you get involved?

I met Lee last year on an Instawalk and got to know him there as well as through following his success during the first year of #ProjectScouted. I knew I had to be involved so this year when he posted that he was looking for Instagram togs, I jumped at the chance.

2.    What made you want to be a part of the photography team for #ProjectScouted?

I predominantly shoot landscapes and street scenes. So this offered the opportunity for me to delve into the fashion world and provide me with more experience shooting people.

3.    What is your favourite aspect of the Project?

Just the fact that I'm involved and get to shoot a potential future supermodel!

4.    How did you discover your passion for photography?

Through Instagram and the wonderful support of friends, family and followers

5.    What has been the most amazing experience for you as a photographer?

The feedback. Good and bad. It's a great way to learn and get a feel if you're heading in the right direction.

6.    What do you love most about photographing people?

The challenge... Every person is unique. Every person has a beautiful quality.

7.    Any tips for the girls that you are going to be shooting?

Stay calm and have fun. Most importantly, as a Mr South Africa 2010 semi-finalist with some experience in this field, the key factor is being yourself.

8.    What’s your day job at the moment?

Not too glamorous... I manage a department for a laser cutting company running production and overseeing their welding and fabrication, etc. But who knows, I could maybe be doing photography full-time one day soon!

#ProjectScouted now has a dedicated Instagram page where you can find the latest updates and venues for shoots and events. Remember, all events and shoots are open to the public free of charge but even if you can’t be there, Dalton and our other awesome Instagrammer, Zaheera, will be making sure that you don’t miss anything! Follow them on Instagram: @zah_za and @scufforama.

The #ProjectScouted Open Casting a huge success

Having a look at the finds of the scouts for this year’s cycle of #ProjectScouted, it’s difficult to imagine that their teams could be bettered. That was until the Open Casting took place on Saturday, 21 February, at the #Hashtag social restaurant and bar on Windermere Road.

#Hashtag was also a sponsored venue by Durban entrepreneur, Brendon Kader, for last year’s Project and everyone was thrilled to be back – and not just to shoot selfies at the “selfie zone” of the restaurant.

Tasked with interviewing and screening the girls in the VIP area of the restaurant, the Open Casting panel did not have an enviable job on the day. Daunting as any casting or audition may be, the panel – consisting of designers Becca Blair of Becca Blair Designs and Ryan Francis of Shoelaced Clothing; Sholene Ramdass, Lee Folkard Photography’s blogger and former Miss Teen Kwa-Zulu Natal; as well as model and Miss South Africa 2014 semi-finalist, Iman Sheik – did their best to put the girls at ease and assure them that the process was not as intimidating as it may have seemed.

Most of the girls, once they found their footing, sailed through the casual, conversational questions asked by the panel and posed with confidence for their portraits shot by Dalton Green, who is also one of our Instagram photographers for the Project. Once again, Durban did not disappoint in delivering talent and beauty.

The aspirants who attended the casting, coming from as far as Richard’s Bay and Hillcrest, varied from high school students to even a high school teacher, with their ages ranging from 16 to 25. This kind of array is definitely going to be one of the reasons why this year’s Project is so successful.

Several familiar faces paid a visit on the day, as well as some new ones, from scouts – previous and present – to photographers and family of the #ProjectScouted team. The Open Casting turned into a reunion of sorts and it was clear that these guys were sorely missing the Project’s shoots and events.

The casting was the last opportunity for girls to get to be a part of the Project and now the scouts’ teams have been finalized. The excitement is tangible as Phase One and the official launch approaches next week Saturday, 28 February, which will take place at #Hashtag once again, coming full circle from Cycle 1 last year.

Images from the day can be found as they are uploaded on the #ProjectScouted Instagram account as well as on the Instagram profiles of photographers, Zaheera Engar and Dalton Green. Also be on the lookout for the footage of the day shot by the Project’s videographer, Robbie Muller, to get the behind the scenes action of what went down at the casting.

Capturing the #ProjectScouted moments in motion – Cinematographer, Brittany Hurrell

Brittany Hurrell describes herself as a cinematographer rather than a videographer. She films for cinematic experience and uses colour grading instead of editing. Currently a second-year student studying Cinematography and Data and Image Enhancement at AFDA Durban, which is a school of motion picture and live performance, Brittany has the depth and intuition needed for someone capturing emotion and energy. This makes her the perfect person to document the thrill and adventure that #ProjectScouted is.

1.    What sparked your interest in cinematography?

I have always had a passion for cinematography. I love capturing motion pictures in a way where the audience can appreciate the certain style of the image and the lighting techniques, the symbolism, the shot style, the angle, and how the overall look tells a story with visuals. It’s a form of art and the creative side of it keeps me alive.

2.    What is the best part of the entire process of creating videos?

I would say the actual filming of it is the best, because you are essentially part of the scene and the world which the director has created for you and you are constantly capturing these images and moving with the characters to help progress the story and add to the narrative. It gives you an adrenalin rush because you always want the best take!

4. How did you hear about #ProjectScouted?

I heard about #ProjectScouted last year via Facebook when I saw some of my friends getting tagged in pictures that were taken of them. 

5. What motivated you to become a cinematographer for #ProjectScouted?

I really just want to do it for the experience! The more you learn about this art, the more you grow as an artist! There is also a lot of exposure and it would be great for my future! So being a part of this Project will ultimately help me with my career and my skills at the same time which is a win-win situation. Plus, I get to make awesome friends, meet new people and make memories!

6. From what you know so far, what do you love the most about #ProjectScouted?

I love how it brings everyone together. Everyone from different mediums: photographers, scouts, models, stylists, makeup artists, writers etc. It’s great to know such creative and passionate people that will help you and inspire you in the field that you are in. 

7. What has been your most memorable experience as a cinematographer?

Filming for my peers. They create such magical scripts and being able to translate words into visuals is incredible! Every term, I have the privilege to shoot some epic films and each term it has helped me learn and grow so I am better than before. 

8. Would you advise someone who wants to be a cinematographer to get a qualification first or to learn on their own?

I would definitely tell them to get a qualification first. In this day and age, if you don't have a Degree it is very difficult to get employed. There is also so much to learn about film, how it’s done and the skills that you would need that are only acquired when one studies at an institution like this. It also helps you know many people that will help you when you enter the industry after you graduate. These people would have worked with you previously so they will take you to awesome places with them!

Stay active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for everything that is #ProjectScouted. The Project kicks off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch. And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge! But if you aren’t there, Brittany will be one of the team making sure that you don’t miss out on the experience.

The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Our Instagrammer, Zaheera Engar

She is a self-professed Instagram addict and has a passion for capturing and sharing images that tell a story and express emotion. Who better than Zaheera Engar to be one of the Instagram photographers capturing and sharing images in real-time from the #ProjectScouted shoots and events?

1.    What do you currently do?

I am a full-time housewife and part-time bookkeeper.

2.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and how did you get involved?

I heard about the Project about a year ago when I met Lee Folkard on an Instawalk.

3.    What motivated you to want to be one of the Instagram photographers for the Project?

I am an Instagram and editing slut (mind the word) which means I always want to try new and different types of photography and this is my chance at a different type of photography.

4.    What do you love most about social media?

I love how it takes me off the couch and into the streets, opens my eyes to see things in a whole different light, and of course all the wonderful people I meet!

5.    How did you discover your passion for photography?

Through Instagram, of course!

6.    What do you love photographing most?

Mostly landscapes and cityscapes but recently I enjoy playing around with editing to create some surreal escapism

7.    How does one take a really good Instagram photo, be it a selfie or in terms of general editing?

I think timing and light are most important and not to layer your shot with too many filters.

8.    For you, what makes a beautiful photograph?

I love photographs that capture a story or a feeling, and stirs up the senses in me.

9.    Any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls?

You’re young, beautiful and amazing; don’t take life too seriously! Enjoy all the moments, especially these coming up in the Project!

#ProjectScouted, having taken on a life of its own, now has a dedicated Instagram page. 

IG: @ProjectScouted

Also keep an eye out for the website that will be going live soon as well! Remember, all events and shoots are open to the public free of charge but even if you can’t be there, Zaheera will be making sure that you don’t miss anything!

Zaheera on instagram: zah_za

Capturing the moments of #ProjectScouted in motion - Videographer, Robbie Muller

An exciting new aspect of #ProjectScouted this year is the addition of videographers and cinematographers to the highly creative and skilled team. This year, every thrilling moment of the Project will be captured on camera and shared across social media. One of the videographers on board is Robbie Muller, a full-time videographer who works making news and comedy shows for the ITEN network. He is also a freelancer shooting corporate videos, adverts and is also helping out on a feature film currently being shot in Durban as well as being a part-time photographer. Read more about Robbie’s passion for videography below.

1.     What sparked your interest in videography?

Growing up, I watched a lot of television shows and movies like Dragonball Z and Power Rangers. Haha! When I finished school, I thought it would be a great idea to create something of my own. I enjoyed being behind a camera and capturing moments, it has always fascinated me and now it is my career to do something I love. I am blessed beyond measure.

2.     What is the best part of the entire process of creating videos?

The best part is knowing that there is no limit to what you can do with a camera; from using different angles to setting up lights to create a mood, to creating various time-lapses to capturing moments and editing them in slow motion.

3.     How did you hear about #ProjectScouted?

I came along to one of the shoots last year because my twin cousins, Keelan and Chad Brissett, were asked to model in one of the phases. I was amazed that the response the Project was getting. People were even getting interviewed in newspapers around Durban and I thought it was an amazing way to put Durban on the map.

4.     What motivated you to become one of the videographers capturing #ProjectScouted?

I began chatting to Lee last year and realised that this is a great platform. Durban is highly underrated compared to Johannesburg and Cape Town and we have so much potential right here and it should not go unnoticed. We need to show the rest of South Africa that we have the most beautiful women around.

5.     Having attended a phase last year, what do you love the most about #ProjectScouted?

What I love the most is meeting so many different people in my home town, from talented photographers like Roy and Jerome to different designers and makeup artists and not to mention the beautiful young women. I am really looking forward to this year; I have seen that there are a lot of motivated and stunning aspirants lined up.

6.     What has been your most memorable experience as a videographer?

I have met so many people on my journey and even got the opportunity to meet Idris Elba who portrayed Nelson Mandela in the movie Mandela: Long walk to Freedom.

7.     Would you advise someone who wants to be a videographer to get a qualification first or to learn on their own?

To be honest, in this industry they don’t really look at qualifications, people hire you based on creativity, good etiquette and hard work. Like everything else these days, videography can be taught online, but I went to the Durban University of Technology for 4 years and I feel like it has taught me quite a lot. So my answer is to do a short course which will teach you the basics and then to work and gain as much experience, because that is the only way you grow as an individual.

Keep active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for everything #ProjectScouted. The Project kicks off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch. And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge!

The awesome #ProjectScouted sponsors – Wesley Wells of Gerald Wells Hair Professionals

Leaders in the hair styling and hair care industry in SA, Gerald Wells Hair Professionals have been an integral part of #ProjectScouted since its inception. What makes this group different are their innovation and creative flair but also their attention to detail and their genuine care for their clients. Gerald Wells Hair Professionals currently have two salons at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga and one at the Beach Centre in Umdloti as well as the specialist product stores, Splush open countrywide. Read more about Wesley Wells, son of Gerald Wells, below who has a passion for all things hair.

1.    What made you want to become a #ProjectScouted sponsor?

I think that it’s a great platform, giving the opportunity to young girls to have an amazing experience and learn a great deal. There’s a lot of hidden talent in Durban and #ProjectScouted definitely can make dreams a reality. Who wouldn't want to get involved in that?!

2.    How long have you been a hair stylist and what inspired you to become one?

I am not a hairstylist - I am a hair guru. I did not choose this, but I was blessed by being born into it.

3.    What is the most rewarding aspect of being a hair stylist?

Making a person look and feel great!

4.    What has been the most memorable experience for you as a hair guru so far?

Working alongside my father, Gerald Wells.

5.    What is a typical day like for you?

I’d be typing out a book here but to sum it up - overseeing and building the company.

6.    Are you willing to share any info about your phase in the Project?

I’m looking forward to being involved and I hope it will be as much fun, if not more, than previously. But you just have to wait and see what we have up our sleeves for our phase!

You are definitely not going to want to miss out on seeing what Gerald Wells Hair Professionals have in store for the #ProjectScouted ladies! With the Project kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch, aspirant young ladies have only one chance left to be a part of this experience by attending the open casting at Hashtag restaurant on 21 February 2015. 

And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge!

#ProjectScouted sponsor Q&A – Becca Blair of Becca Blair Designs

Testament to the brilliant networking opportunity provided by #ProjectScouted is Becca Blair being introduced to the Project through fellow sponsor, Ryan Francis of Shoelaced Clothing. Becca, owner and designer at Becca Blair Designs, has been designing bags, her true passion, for only three years since June 2012 but has made an indelible mark in the Durban fashion industry.

1.    What made you want to become a #ProjectScouted sponsor?

I just wanted to join an exciting project. It’s a cool team of people and its always great getting exposure to a new crowd in Durban. I also thought it would be great collaborating with other Durban creatives.

2.    What do you love most about the Project?

I love the fact that it is held over a long period of time, like an ongoing platform, making it more thrilling and the entrants get super amped each step of the way.

3.    What is the best part of being a designer in Durban?

Durban is tiny, so people spread the word for you. They are proud to buy from local designers and the support is great. There is a certain Durban style and I have to, as a designer, cater for that as well as adding a touch of my vibe to the designs. Its challenging, but it’s good.

4.    How did you find your passion for designing and creating bags?

I used to sew and bags seemed to be the first thing that came to me. Just basic canvas bags. I love bags, I used to collect them when I was a kid. I had more bags than “Kitty in my Pockets”. I had bags in bags in bags. I never threw them out. I was a hoarder; Hello Kitty bags, bowling bags, see-through bags, velvet bags, etc.

5.    What is a typical day like for you?

Hmm... I wake up. Shower. Have some tea. Go to the factory where I either do stock-take or pack bags up for deliveries or posting. I drive to collect fabric for the next lot of bags, deliver bags around Durban, stand in the queue at the Post Office, while answering emails on my phone, visiting manufacturers/embroiderers, or I’m on my laptop at the factory working on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and my website. Or I’m editing photos of the bags or photos from a recent shoot. I also do visits to boutiques around Durban. I make sure I am busy!

6.    Are you willing to share any info about your phase in the Project?

All I’m going to say now is that there is going to be a fashion show and some bags to giveaway at the end! Get keen, everyone!

You are definitely not going to want to miss out on what Becca has in store for the #ProjectScouted ladies! With the Project beginning on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch, hopeful young ladies have only one chance left to be a part of this experience by attending the open casting at Hashtag restaurant on 21 February 2015. And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Chrystal Rudd

Being a full-time model, Chrystal Rudd knows what to look for when it comes to choosing girls who will captivate in front of the camera. Although Chrystal may have quite a bit on her plate at the moment, with also being a receptionist at the local backpackers, she has been following #ProjectScouted since last year and couldn’t miss the chance to be a part of it this year.

1.    How long have you lived in Durban? What do you love most about the city?

7 years in total. I just love summer nights in Durban.

2.    How does being a scout benefit you?

I’m just here for the benefit of the girls.

3.    What are you looking forward to the most in being a part of the Project?

I’m looking forward to grooming young people and also kicking some ass.

4.    What qualities are you looking for in girls before you scout them?

A youthful innocence with a strong, defined personality

5.    What will give your team an edge over the others?

The girls

6.    If another scout stole one of your girls for their team, what would you do?

Move swiftly along

7.    Which scout or scout’s team, as far as you know, do you see as your toughest competition?

Can’t say until I’ve met the girls

8.    If your team had a motto or a tag line, what would it be?

But did you die?

9.    What is your team’s unique name?

#TeamFuego

Show your support for your favourite teams by sharing their images on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and hashtagging the teams’ names as well as #ProjectScouted. Also be on the lookout to see what Chrystal’s girls have to offer with the Project kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One. And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge!

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Jami de Vries

Although this is only the second cycle of the Project, Jami de Vries is somewhat of a veteran #ProjectScouted scout. Having been a scout in last year’s Project, Jami had done such a good job in her role that we had to have her back again this year to find that hidden gem in Durban. Read more about Jami, who currently works as a digital marketer, and her laid-back plan to take over #ProjectScouted Cycle 2.

1.    How long have you lived in Durban? What do you love most about the city?

I’ve lived in Durban since the age of 3. I love the sun (our weather), the sea and just – well, home is where the heart is.

2.    How does being a scout benefit you?

It’s always fulfilling to see people grow within themselves and accomplish their dreams. That doesn’t have to mean winning, but getting out of one’s comfort zone. It’s just an incredibly fulfilling experience.

3.    What are you looking forward to the most in being a part of the Project?

The goat (I hope there will be a goat!). Haha! Just the friendships and relationships that develop. It’s great!

4.    What do you think is the best feature of #ProjectScouted?

Your “everyday” kind of people get a chance to shine.

5.    What qualities are you looking for in girls before you scout them?

I’m looking for unique outer beauty but definitely girls who shine on the inside as well; down to earth girls that are just going to do their best throughout their time on #ProjectScouted. That’s all I can hope for; that they grow and persevere.

6.    What will give your team an edge over the others?

Inner beauty that shines outwards on an already beautiful girl, wins. And they have me to guide them! Haha!

7.    If another scout stole one of your girls for their team, what would you do?

Hmmm, nothing I guess.

8.    Which scout or scout’s team, as far as you know, do you see as your toughest competition?

Not paying attention to that. My team is the only thing that matters. But frankly speaking, it’s not a team that’s tough because all it takes is one girl to take out everyone else and she could come from the ‘weakest’ team so you could never really say because every girl is unique.

9.    If your team had a motto or a tag line, what would it be?

Don’t have one – I’ll get the girls to come up with one they love and will stick by.

10. What is your team’s unique name and why did you choose it?

Don’t have 1 yet. I’m waiting to complete my team before I name us.

Don’t hesitate to show your support for your favourite teams by sharing their images on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and hashtagging the teams’ names as well as #ProjectScouted. Also be on the lookout to see what Jami’s girls have to offer with the Project kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One. And remember that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge!