The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Roy Esterhuysen

Roy Esterhuysen is one of those people who never seem to have an off day. Always laughing, always in a good mood, and always one of the friendliest guys you will ever meet; it’s no wonder models love shooting with him and anyone creative would love working with him. Last year’s #ProjectScouted Phase Ten underwater shoot was pioneering, to say the least. The attention that the shoot gained was unprecedented in Durban and secured Roy as not only a #ProjectScouted favourite, but also as one of the top photographers in Durban. Apart from Roy’s unique speciality in underwater shooting, he is also a bespoke female fitness, swimwear, and fashion photographer as well as an established lingerie photographer working under the brand Blush Boudoir. And as if his schedule wasn’t hectic enough, Roy also works as a freelance graphic designer when he is not jet-setting to Cape Town and the like to shoot some of the most beautiful models in the country at some of the most beautiful locations in country. #ProjectScouted and the Top 6 girls couldn’t be more fortunate in having Roy back again this year to create more waves with another underwater shoot.

Lee Folkard Photography: How did you discover your passion for photography?

Roy: I’ve always had a camera in my hands, even in my younger days. It all began with my dad’s film camera with being rationed by how many shots I could take. I suppose in a way, having to be so careful in choosing which shots to take, I developed an eye for what would translate well onto camera. I started off on the business side with shooting interiors, architecture, and award functions mainly, and I then progressed onto weddings. I’m also currently the official photographer for www.beachweddings.co.za owned by James Carlsen. I developed my own style as I worked more and then moved on to lingerie and now I have also branched out into fitness photography. Having such a wide array of interests in the field always challenges me and I love the constant desire it gives me to improve.

LFP: What has been some of the best experiences for you as a photographer?

Roy: There are three main highlights for me from last year. I had the amazing opportunity of shooting a lingerie shoot at a New York studio and at Central Park. New York is an extremely inspiring location for a photographer and the work I did there benefitted me incredibly!  I also captured a traditional Zulu wedding on the top of the mountains with an amazing view in Izingolweni. This was such a new and different experience for me! And then, of course, the underwater shoot in #ProjectScouted Cycle 1 was momentous for me and also having it feature on the front page of the newspaper was awesome!

LFP: What would you say is the most important part of your job when photographing someone?

Roy: Capturing a part of their personality and their natural moments is one of the most important aspects of my job. It’s also important for the person I am shooting to feel comfortable enough to be herself and let her inner self shine through. This is why my Blush Boudoir tagline is “capturing the essence of who you are”.

LFP: Is there anyone that you dream of shooting?

Roy: It would be awesome to shoot my boudoir mentor, Christa Meola Economopoulos. She has been a great inspiration to me. I would also love to capture the winner of Project Runway Season 9, Anya AyoungChee. She has such an incredibly unique, fresh look. And then another dream shoot would be with the owner of the fitness brand Lorna Jane, Lorna Jane Clarkson. Lorna Jane has been an intrinsic part of my fitness work and I love the positivity the brand stands for.

LFP: What makes for an interesting image?

Roy: I feel that there are several factors in making for a great image; location, planning, the model, appropriate wardrobe choice, the right posing for the shoot, getting a good team together and then finally a positive energy during the shoot is a must. If there is a good vibe on location, the images immediately have a spark to them.

LFP: Having been a part of #ProjectScouted last year, what made you want to be a part of it again this year?

Roy: Anyone who is a part of the Project will find themselves collaborating and working with a team that is striving towards the same goal of creating beautiful images. This is extremely inspiring for any creative person. Also I find that the photographers all push each other to do better and push the boundaries of their capabilities. We all want to see each other get better at what we do.

LFP: Do you have any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls you will be shooting?

Roy: Always have a positive attitude! And also prepare for your shoots in advance by looking up posing ideas and practicing them and work on different facial expressions.

LFP: It’s going to be difficult to better your shoot from last year. Are you willing to share any info about the phase you are shooting in the Project this year?

Roy: Well, let’s just say there will be a little twist this time. It is going to be much more challenging for the girls and also for me. But just to reassure the girls; they will not have to freeze the way the girls did last year!

The date for Roy’s shoot is still to be confirmed but will take place at Crawford College La Lucia with the girls being dressed by Lorna Jane and with lighting being taken care of by Broadcast Lighting. The Top 6 girls need to prepare themselves; this one won’t be for the fainthearted.

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.

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!

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!

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Lyle Young

Lyle Young says that he has an eye for talent and he’s going to get a chance to prove that at this year’s Project by being a scout. Having attended many of the shoots and events last year and even having been a guest judge, there would have probably been a public outcry had he not been involved in this year’s Project. Lyle is also an intelligent guy – he’s a software developer and systems engineer – so you can be sure that he has a strategy already for taking his team to the end.

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

All my life really, although I stayed in Cape Town as well as Johannesburg in between. Nothing beats the weather and beaches.

2.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and how did you become a scout?

I was involved in Cycle 1 as a judge last year, thought I’d try out being a scout. You know, eye for talent and stuff.

3.    How does being a scout benefit you?

It doesn’t really benefit me, we do it #forthepeople

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

Just the Project in general, hey. It’s exciting – working with the team, whom are close friends, meeting new people and making new friends that transcend the Project. Just seeing the variety of creatives that Durban offers is amazing.

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

Seeing models grow in confidence from Phase One and watching how their presence in front of the camera becomes more captivating. And it’s also great for up-and-coming photographers, videographers, etc. to showcase their work.

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

I’m just looking for a diverse group, and the winner, runner-up and third place. They can fight for those positions amongst themselves.

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

There’s a certain Miss SA semi-finalist I can call on to help. Haha.

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

Politically correct answer: Girls need to be comfortable with their scouts, since the scouts are the one they need to confide in and seek help and advice. Just because you scouted them does not mean they are indebted to you.

Honest answer: Sabotage

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

#TeamNonexistent

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

The greatest adventure is what lies ahead.

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

#TeamBestie

Because everyone needs a bestie.

Keep on the lookout on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to see how Lyle’s girls fare with #ProjectScouted kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch of the Project.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Helen Borg

Twenty-one-year-old Graphic Design student at the Durban University of Technology, Helen Borg, has a special tie with #ProjectScouted this year. She is the designer behind the official logo of the Project that has been trending all over social media for the past few weeks. Finding herself completely at home with the other Project creatives, Helen plans on bringing sophistication and elegance to the Project with her team.

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

1. City Hall at night. 2. My University. 3. The beach on a Friday afternoon after lectures.

2.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and how did you become a scout?

Lee and I both share a creative flair and often discuss his Projects.

3.    How does being a scout benefit you?

I guess I’ll be developing my interpersonal skills by networking with good-looking and creative individuals. 

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

Inspiring my team of girls to create beautiful photographic imagery with their personalities and body forms

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

The goat

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

A sense of style and individuality

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

My creative background and direction behind/in front of the camera.

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

(Censored comment)

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

I haven’t been keeping track of the other teams.

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

Young, wild, and desired.

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

#TeamMonroe – In relation to Marilyn Monroe’ - an iconic beauty

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. Be on the look out to see how Helen’s girls fare with the Project kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch of the Project. Don’t forget that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Tamlyn Gabin

Tamlyn and Warren Gabin are going to be giving sibling rivalry a whole new definition at Cycle 2 of #ProjectScouted as they will both be fighting as scouts to have a girl from their team win. Tamlyn, a 19-year-old beauty, is currently in her second year studying towards a Bachelor of Social Science Degree in Marketing and Media. Tamlyn is also no stranger to #ProjectScouted territory as she was one of the stunners to make it to the Top 6 last year and so she will be able to guide her team with experience. There was no way she could say no to being a scout!

1.    How does being a scout benefit you?

I get to experience the competition from a different angle this time, going from being a part of the project as a participant last year to now being a scout in Cycle 2.

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

I look forward to all the exciting new and unique shoots and just meeting people from all walks of life. 

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

The best feature of #ProjectScouted is the growth you see in the girls as they progress through the competition.

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

I want girls who are really interested in the Project, girls with unique traits that will stand out from the rest, and girls with natural beauty.

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

I was involved in #ProjectScouted as one of the participants so I can give my girls personal advice.

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

I wouldn't make a big deal out of it, at least we both spotted beauty, and at the end of the day we are just a channel for the ladies to be involved in the Project, and no matter who scouts them, so long as potential is being scouted.

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

In all honesty #TeamBrotherBear because he is my brother! Got to be one step ahead of him and his team!

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

Haters gon' hate, potatoes gon' potate but #TeamTamz is gon' dominate!!!

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

I like to keep things plain and simple, #TeamTamz is what’s up! It's one of my nicknames and I want the girls to feel comfortable in my team as I mentor them through their journey.

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. Be on the lookout to see how Tamlyn’s team does with the Project kicking off with Phase One on 28 February 2015. Don’t forget that all shoots and events are open to the public free of charge.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts – Warren Gabin

Twenty-seven-year-old Warren Gabin is a creative at heart and he wears that heart on his sleeve. If he doesn’t at first pique your interest with his many tattoos and easy smile, he definitely will if you strike up a conversation with him. Having his little sister Tamlyn – who is also one of our scouts – reach the Top 6 in last year’s cycle of #ProjectScouted and having attended many of the photoshoots and events, Warren has a unique experience of the Project that will definitely aid in him being a commendable scout. Read more about this inspired and artistic young man below and see why he has become so popular throughout #ProjectScouted.

1.    What do you currently do?

What do I do? I play the guitar; I always have a sound for how I feel. I write; I write to make sense of the thoughts in my head. Music is my sanity, poetry is my sanctuary.

My day job? I’ve recently stepped into a position as an internal orders consultant for an established Pinetown-based mixed concrete company. They call it the legacy-making business. Haha! It’s true though!

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

I have lived in Durban for 99.9% of my life. I spent a year in Johannesburg seeking “fame and fortune”. There is no place like home. Durban is warm, figuratively and literally. I love that I live near the coast. The one thought that always blows my mind when I stand on Durban’s beachfront is the thought that I am standing on the border of a continent, the border of Africa. In those moments I am always filled with an overwhelming calmness.

3.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and how did you become a scout?

My sister was a participant in #ProjectScouted Cycle 1. I would take her to the phases that she was involved in, and while there began getting to know everyone behind the scenes. I slowly became a part of the family. When Cycle 2 came along, Lee thought it would be cool to make both my sister and I scouts; a sort of battle of the siblings.

4.    How does being a scout benefit you?

Lee, pay your scouts. Haha! That would be the best benefit! On a serious note, the most rewarding benefit of being a scout, for me, is the opportunity it provides to connect with creative souls: established and aspiring. From photographers and graphic designers, to fashion designers and videographers, Durban has a wealth of creative knowledge and skills which #ProjectScouted taps into and exposes everyone involved to.

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

I’m looking forward to the adventure, making memories, but most importantly, I’m looking forward to leading my team and being part of their evolution. The relationship between the scout and their team is an essential part of the Project. I get to protect my girls from negativity and I’ll have the privilege of being able to influence their attitudes.

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

The fact that it is a Project and not a modelling competition is the best thing about it. It is anti-industry. It is not about showcasing conventional standards, it is about showcasing unconventional truths. #ProjectScouted appreciates girls of all shapes and sizes, all colours and creeds. The Project promotes the theme of “loving the skin you’re in”.

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

Authenticity

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

The diversity of personalities present within my team. I haven’t met the other teams, so it would be arrogant of me to say that my team’s diversity gives us an edge, however our diversity is certainly a powerful strength.

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

I’d brand that scout a poacher and thief for the duration of the project! Haha!

But I would support the poached girl regardless.

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

Too soon for me to accurately tell, but my gut says that Jami’s team will be very strong.

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

“Be you, and they will see you.”

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

My team’s name is Team Brother Bear. My sister coined the name for me during Project Scouted Cycle 1. So I thought it would be a fitting team name in Cycle 2. I was there for my sister during Cycle 1, and now I will be there for my girls in Cycle 2. #TeamBrotherBear

Keep an eye out for images on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to see how Warren’s girls do with #ProjectScouted kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch of the Project. Don’t forget to show your support by sharing your favourite images with the hashtag of the teams’ names along with the #ProjectScouted hashtag.