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 – Pelisha Somiah

Pelisha Somiah, known as Pow to most, is a dreamer and a tea-drinker – through her own admission. Having lived in Durban all her life, she loves the newfound sense of youth and creative culture of the city and says that Cape Town “better watch its back”. Having been scouted herself, Pelisha chose to be a scout instead so you can bet that this girl means business when it comes to winning!

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

I was scouted by a Facebook friend and tagged in a post with the #ProjectScouted logo. I then received a message from Lee, answered a few questions about myself, asked him a few unnecessary questions in return, and then decided that this Project sounded like a heck load of fun and I wanted in. Much to everyone’s dismay (haha) I chose to be a scout rather than to participate.

2.    How does being a scout benefit you?

I get to be the boss of beautiful people – #QueenBee. Haha! Just joking... Okay, maybe I’m not joking. I guess it’s a nice way to network, meet new people in the industry and build relationships with them while at the same time imparting experiences had and knowledge gained onto those just starting out. Sharing is caring.

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

I find social dynamics intriguing… Aka ‘where the Drama at?!’ Haha! But more importantly I’m keen to help with ideas for photoshoots and to help style my girls! Can’t wait to win! #JustSaying

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

It’s potential. It has the makings of an awesome original local reality show as well as being a Project that could really benefit the youth in our city. As it stands, it’s a really good networking opportunity for the young go-getters in Durban. If they are smart enough, they’ll jump at this.

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

They must be photogenic of course! But I’m also looking for the package; great personality, drive, an exotic look yet universally appealing.

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

Fewer models but of a high standard. I will be able to mentor and assist a smaller team to the best of my ability. #TeamSpirit #TeamYouCantSitWithUs

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

#DeathStare of course!

Death Stare. to look fixedly at someone with so much hate in hopes that their face melts, explodes, or caves in with extreme discomfort and pain. (Urban dictionary)

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

      Uh…. Am I scouting twice or something?

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

We got the stekkies… You got the bats! (What? Infringement you say… AND politically incorrect to say the word bat in a joke because of Ebola? Oh man.) Okay well, then it would have to be #Winning (As in “Hashtag winning”, you have to say the hashtag for full effect).

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

THE MANEKI NEKOS – The maneki-neko (Japanese, literally "beckoning cat") is a common Japanese figurine (lucky charm, talisman) which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner.

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 Pelisha’s team fares with the Project kicking off on 28 February 2015 with Phase One and the launch of the Project.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts Aimee Nel

She was an audience favourite at last year’s #ProjectScouted thanks to her spunky and feisty yet sweet nature. And this year, 21-year-old Aimee Jade Nel is back to win hearts and minds in Cycle 2 but this time she will be doing it as a scout. She’s currently a waitress at Dropkick Murphy’s on Florida Road, giving her a brilliant opportunity to scout girls for her team. Having lived in Durban for more than 18 years, Aimee describes herself as a complete beach girl and one who is always smiling. Read more about Aimee’s #ProjectScouted game plan below.

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

I was scouted last year by a friend of mine, and this year Lee Folkard gave me the opportunity to be behind the scenes and it’s been so rewarding. I can’t wait for Cycle 2 to start!

2.    How does being a scout benefit you?

I love the reaction from the girls, it’s what every girl needs. It’s about letting them know that you don’t have to be stick-skinny or flawless to be appreciated – I know that’s how I felt when I was scouted. I now understand why Lee started this project.

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

I’m looking forward to seeing how all the girls interpret the themes at each shoot. It’s going to be interesting!

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

I love the whole idea of it. It’s exciting and it’s on its way to greatness. #WatchThisSpace

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

Girls who have a confidence about them, with a kind of natural beauty.

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

We are the edge.

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

I don’t ever have to think about that! My team is so tight we get mistaken for leggings!

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

I haven’t been following other scouts’ progress, but I’m sure I’m up against some pretty heavy contenders.

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

‘We ride together we die together.’

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

Its #ATeam, and that’s all anyone who isn’t in the #ATeam needs to know.

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts Nombuso Ngcobo

Just-turned-20, Nombuso Ngcobo, known to most as ‘Nom’, currently works as a makeup artist. Being a makeup artist, she understands the importance of a good first impression and the importance of taking care of one’s appearance. Given her line of expertise, she will no doubt be bringing some fantastic talent to Cycle 2 of #ProjectScouted in her role as a scout. And she will also be bringing lost of laughter and silliness (according to her)!

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

I've lived in Durban since I was 6. I love the laidback lifestyle and I semi-like the fact that everyone knows everyone, we're like a family and it's easy to connect with people here. I also love the beach, duh! But what I love the most are the views! Standing on a roof top, over-looking Durban is the most beautiful sight ever. Our harbour is so magical at night!

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

I was following the Project on social media last year and thought that it would be cool to get involved this year. I love these types of initiatives and it can teach you so much. I just contacted Lee and I was like “I'd be good at this and I would also like to help with shoots”. So yeah, that's how I became a scout... I obviously made this sound pretty. Haha!

3.    How does being a scout benefit you?

It's giving me a feel of how hard being an art director actually is. Choosing the right face is so important.

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

I’m looking forward to making new friends and being silly. I love talking so the more people I know the better! Haha!  But I'm also looking forward to learning new things and just seeing my team excel!

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

The best feature, I don't actually know if this is a feature, is the Instagram aspect; I love Instagram and I'm so excited to see the great images shared and to share some cool stuff.

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

I'm looking for personality and willingness. I'm not just looking for a pretty girl who wants to do this for the pretty pictures or likes on Facebook. I want girls who want to be committed and will encourage each other.

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

My team has been carefully selected; it's going to wow everyone! I don't even need to explain! They have such unique looks. I love them! I want to BE my team. Haha!

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

That would never happen, my girls are so loyal and why would anyone do that?! I would type out an essay and rage at them and tell them to grow up! Hahahaha! But then I'd get over it because I know my team is going to win anyway.

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

I haven't seen a lot of the teams, peeps are very hush-hush. But I'm really scared to see what the boys are going to bring. It's going to be fun though!

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

It would be something glam and high-fashion, I'm not sure yet.

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

We’re having a team meeting this weekend, like a team retreat but not as glamorous, so we will decide on a name then. I'm thinking #TeamVogue because they all look like supermodels.

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

Getting to know your #ProjectScouted scouts Alain Firmin

Alain Firmin and his twin brother, Jean-luc, are known around Durban as the confident, trendy, and debonair “Firmin twins”. Both being scouts in this year’s #ProjectScouted, they both have their eye on the prize and are taking their task of finding the winning girl very seriously. Alain, an 18-year-old Interior Design student at the Durban University of Technology, is a hard-working young man with a creative spirit; this shining most in his passion for music and his endeavour to become a successful professional musician. A model, like his brother, Alain is also one of the faces of local designer Ryan Francis’s label, Shoelaced Clothing. Ryan has also been a loyal and loved sponsor of #ProjectScouted from the beginning. A new-found passion for Alain is that for #ProjectScouted, which is evident in his quest to find that special girl. Get to know why Alain loves the Project as much as he does below.

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

I have lived in Durban my entire life and the reason why my family hasn’t moved is because of the friendly people, awesome beaches and weather, as well as the many things there are to do here.

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

It was last year, whilst scrolling through pictures on Instagram that I came across the hashtag #ProjectScouted. That’s when I started messaging the girls I knew who were using the hashtag and asking them what it was that Project Scouted is all about! After finding out what it’s about, I said to my brother, “This is definitely something we need to be a part of!”

So we were following what was happening with #ProjectScouted each week via social media (as we knew most of the girls), thinking of ways to be a part of this whole #ProjectScouted initiative. We then decided to go on-site for the last phase and that’s when we met the crew.  Little did we know that we knew many of those people already! And it was after that day that Lee started inviting us to #ProjectScouted events and started getting to know us a bit more. Not long after that did we find ourselves a part of the #ProjectScouted crew and even playing tennis with them every Thursday. Haha!

After showing our interest in wanting to be a part of #ProjectScouted, Lee asked us if we would like to be a part of this year’s Project as well as be scouts, which there was only one answer to, “Yes, we’d love too!”

3.    How does being a scout benefit you?

#ProjectScouted is basically a great platform for all those who take part in it; not only for the girls who model, but also for us as scouts. We get to meet new people like designers and photographers and develop friendships, which benefits everyone. And to be honest, I am so grateful to be a scout as I also get to help girls get themselves out there and get noticed – something I think a lot of youth wish for.

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

I won’t lie, I’m looking forward to winning (yeah, I got this year in the bag)! Haha! I also look forward to meeting new people as well as the different phases that Lee has in store for us! Rumour has it, this year they’re doing things bigger and better… Bring it on!

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

That’s a tough one... I really don’t think I can answer that because it’s so amazing altogether!

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

I’m not choosing just any girls to be a part of my team. I’m looking for girls who are unique, in a sense that they have their own style, and for girls who want to win! So instead of just getting a whole lot of girls on my team, I’m creating an elite team of girls who I know will be focused and have what it takes to win.

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

My team consist of girls of different races and sizes, who all have different styles and get along well with me, so I think that’s what gives my team an edge over the other teams. Besides my team has a (spectacular) scout who’s going to give it his best, ensuring one of his girls win and that all his girls make it to the end.

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

You don’t want to know... Haha. I don’t think there are any chances of that happening as the girls I’ve chosen only want to be on my team!

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

There is no scout in particular that I’m afraid of, as I see all the scouts as tough competition because they all have chosen girls that I would want to have on my team. So if I said I wasn’t nervous, I’d be lying but I do have a lot of faith in my team and yeah, I’m willing to give it my all.

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

“In it to win it!”

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

#TeamAlain – It speaks for itself.

Keep on the lookout on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to see how Alain’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 Jean-luc Firmin

No stranger to social media fame, Jean-luc Firmin, one half of the Firmin twins, is a charming and suave young man. This will no doubt help in him recruiting girls to be a part of #ProjectScouted, but it is his eye for beauty and good taste that will come most to his aid. The 18-year-old, fashion savvy Durbanite is currently a Marketing student at Varsity College in Durban North. Jean-luc and his brother, Alain, also a #ProjectScouted scout, are also models and are currently brand ambassadors for Ryan Francis’s Shoelaced Clothing – also one of our #ProjectScouted sponsors. Adding to his repertoire is his musical flair as he is also part of a band. So along with being one of Durban’s rising stars, Jean-luc is also an upcoming musician. Read more about this multi-talented scout below.

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

I have lived in Durban my entire life. I really enjoy going out and meeting up with friends and meeting new people. So what I love the most about the city is the cool social spots and all the wonderful things it has for people to do here. I’m crazy about its awesome vibe.

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

I first heard about #ProjectScouted during Cycle 1 last year in 2014 since it was buzzing through all different platforms and social media. Due to knowing a few people that were involved in #ProjectScouted, I went along with my brother, Alain, to the final phase and from there we’ve been good friends with Lee Folkard as well as the others who are linked to the Project. I was invited to the first official #ProjectScouted Cycle 2 meeting at the beginning of the year and was asked to be a scout. I immediately accepted because Lee and I both knew that I was coming with the winner! Haha.

3.    How does being a scout benefit you?

Being a scout gives me an opportunity for networking and meeting new people – which is always useful. #ProjectScouted, since it is so active on many different platforms and social media, is also a great form of exposure. So I’m really looking forward to when the Project officially starts!

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

Well, as a scout I am looking most forward to coming with the winner! But on the whole, I am looking forward to seeing what unfolds with the many different phases and themes and how the girls handle them. I’m just looking forward to being a part of the experience.

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

There are many great features to #ProjectScouted but what I think is the best is the exposure that one gets from it and to also get to be a part of the experience. The exposure is not there just for the girls but for everyone that is involved.

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

What I have been looking for in girls is not just good looks but also personality because you have got to want to really do this. I think a girl who loves and suits the camera and who loves the attention is going to do great. I am not being too fussy about physical appearance but I do know what I want. At the end of the day we, as scouts, need to try and come with the winner.

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

We are hyped about the Project completely and my girls want to win. So that fighting spirit will be seen and come through during the shoots. They also know what they are doing so they are ready to show what they are made of.

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

I doubt that that would happen because all the girls are being loyal and I know this from trying to steal from the other teams... No, I’m just joking about that part! But if it had to happen, I certainly wouldn’t make it a big deal because at the end of the day the Project is for the girls.

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

All I can say to that is... #TeamJeanluc!

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

“Finger Licking Good”? Just joking! If we had a slogan it would definitely be “Better than the Best”, only because we are that cool!

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

#TeamJeanluc. We’re keeping it straight forward because it is a hashtag worth trending just the way it is. It’s also an easy way to keep track of the winning team! And my creativity level is very low. Haha!

Shoelaced Clothing by Ryan Francis – An official sponsor of #ProjectScouted

Shoelaced Clothing has been a loyal and favourite sponsor for Lee Folkard Photography's Projects. This year he also happens to feature as a scout in #ProjectScouted. Headed and owned by Ryan Francis; a husband and father of three kids, Shoelaced Clothing is a fresh, edgy and daring brand. Ryan is always at the top of his game and this home-grown Durban boy is bringing that A-game to #ProjectScouted this year.

 Here's our Q&A session with the designer:

Lee Folkard Photography: What was your inspiration to become a designer and how did you start off?

Ryan: I have always had a great love and passion for designing and wanted to be a part of the fashion industry from a very young age. I've always loved expressing who I am and my personality through designing and creating clothing. I later found that by doing this I was also inspiring other people to be creative and unique too. So I decided to launch my own brand in 2011, Shoelaced Clothing, which has grown amazingly over the last few years.

LFP: How did you become involved in Project Scouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Ryan: The concept behind Project Scouted is one I live for, something I believe in and try to live by everyday through Shoelaced Clothing – and that is taking art to the next level. I believe that everybody has that special something about them but not all of us are brave enough to show it. Not all of us are willing to take the chance or the risk to go out and get what we love or do what we love. So I try to be that person that helps others by inspiring them to unlock that potential through my designing. I try to show people that no matter who you are or what your circumstances are, you can achieve your goals. I'm a passionate person that believes that if you don't try you will never know. So that's why I'm a part of a Lee Folkard Photography Project for the second time; because I believe in it.

LFP: Which designer's work do you admire or inspires you and why?

Ryan: I don't really have a favourite; I just love all designers and all creative, passionate people that love doing what they do.

LFP: What is the average day like for you?

Ryan: Coffee, coffee, coffee, meetings, meetings, coffee. And then designing after the sun goes down.

LFP: As a designer, what do you think about only certain looks and body types being portrayed as attractive in the media?

Ryan: I think it’s pretty ridiculous that the media portrays that you have to have a certain look to be attractive. For me it’s simple; fashion is an expression of personality which is something that everybody has and is different from the next person. So express yourself the way you want to, where you want to, and in whatever way you want to, no matter how big or small you think you are. It’s important to be proud of who you are. You may just inspire someone else to do the same!

LFP: If you were a drink, what drink would you be and why?
Ryan: Jack Daniels - with lime & ice. It’s smooth, like me!

Ryan and Shoelaced Clothing made their mark on the project as they hosted Phase Four with a fashion show at SMG Rocks. Those that were there would know that it was a memorable one. 

Images from the show can be seen at: 
Firsthouse Photography
Nilufer Yucel Photography
Street Pulse Photography

P.S. For anyone who hasn’t figured it out yet, Ryan is the one always ‘clowning around’.