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Three candidates of Top Supermodel Australia 2025—Jordan Michelle Smith (Melbourne), Gracie Baker (Sydney), and Stevie Hearl (Adelaide)—flew to Manila for a press launch ahead of two key runway events happening in the Philippines this September. These events, part of the lead-up to the international modeling competition, aim to celebrate diversity, showcase creative talent, and support community empowerment through fashion.

Each of the three candidates offered deeply personal reflections on why they joined the competition and what they hope to achieve beyond the crown.

Jordan Michelle Smith, who is new to the modeling world, said the experience has already been transformative. She expressed her desire to become an international teacher and use the visibility from Top Supermodel to build charities that support children in underserved communities. She credited her twin sister—also a model—for encouraging her to take the leap. “She was accepted but couldn’t continue due to her schedule. She recommended me instead,” Jordan remarked. “To become the next top supermodel would truly be an honor.”

Gracie Baker, who brings over 10 years of experience in modeling and holds a degree in fashion and business, spoke about using the platform to raise awareness for stage three endometriosis, a condition she was recently diagnosed with. “This competition can bring it to people’s homes and encourage women to get checked,” she added. Gracie also shared her admiration for Jennifer Hawkins and Miranda Kerr. She praised their resilience and long-standing influence in the fashion world.

Stevie Hearl emphasized the importance of representation. As an Indigenous Australian, she wants to use her platform to inspire other Indigenous children to pursue their dreams. “I want to be a voice and an advocate for Indigenous children who don’t have one,” she said. Moreover, she looks up to both global fashion icons like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid, and to local queens like Jasmine Stringer, the current Miss World Australia, who inspired her to enter pageantry.

Also present during the press event were Top Supermodel creator and founder Michelle Membrere, co-founder Maria Cristina Cuyugan, and co-owner Reniel Torres. The three shared updates on the program’s upcoming initiatives and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting cross-cultural collaborations between Australia and the Philippines.

Top Supermodel is thrilled to announce the launch of two significant runway events in the Philippines, aimed at showcasing talent while fostering cross-cultural initiatives and promoting socio-economic development. These events—the Preliminary & International Runway tentatively scheduled on September 27 and 28 at Intramuros, Manila, and the TTSM Kaleidoscope with six Local Government Unit (LGU) partners—represent a transformative opportunity for aspiring models, designers, and artists.

Preliminary & International Runway: Fashion Canvass at Intramuros

The Preliminary & International Runway, part of the Fashion Canvass, will take place on September 5 and 6 in the historic area of Intramuros, Manila. This graded show will feature candidates who will be judged on their runway performance, creativity, and ability to embody the vision of cultural diversity. The event promises to be a dazzling display of fashion excellence, highlighting both local and international designers.

The Fashion Canvass aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines while allowing candidates to showcase their unique stories through fashion. This immersive experience will not only elevate the profiles of emerging talents but also engage the audience in meaningful conversations about the importance of diversity in the fashion industry.

TTSM Kaleidoscope: A Celebration of Local Government Units

Following the Preliminary & International Runway, the TTSM Kaleidoscope runway show will feature six LGU partners, spotlighting their unique cultural identities and contributions to the fashion landscape. This event will serve as a platform for local talents to shine, showcasing collections that reflect the local culture, artistry, and craftsmanship.

The collaboration with LGUs is pivotal, as it underscores Top Supermodel’s commitment to community empowerment and socio-economic development. By partnering with local government units, Top Supermodel aims to:

• Promote Local Talent: The TTSM Kaleidoscope showcases local designers and models, giving them a platform to gain recognition and access to global opportunities.
• Foster Economic Growth: The events aim to stimulate local economies by attracting tourists, creating jobs, and encouraging investment in the fashion industry.
• Encourage Cultural Exchange: By blending Australian and Filipino fashion, the initiative promotes cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, celebrating the richness of both cultures.

Establishment of the Australia-Philippines Art Skills Center

As a core part of this initiative, Top Supermodel is excited to announce the establishment of the Australia-Philippines Art Skills Center, which will serve as a dedicated learning foundation. This center is designed to uplift women, support the LGBTQ+ community, and empower today’s youth through comprehensive training in fashion and the arts.

The Art Skills Center will offer:

• Skill Development: Workshops and training programs in fashion design, styling, photography, and other creative arts, providing participants with the skills needed to thrive in the fashion industry.
• Community Empowerment: By focusing on underrepresented groups, the center aims to create inclusive opportunities that foster creativity, confidence, and economic independence.
• Sustainable Growth: Revenue generated from the center’s programs will be reinvested into community initiatives, ensuring long-term impact and support for local talent.

Top Supermodel invites everyone to participate in these transformative events, to witness the beauty of cultural exchange, and to join the movement toward empowerment and inclusivity in fashion. Together, we can create a vibrant community that celebrates creativity, diversity, and collaboration.

About Top Supermodel

Top Supermodel is a premier international fashion competition that discovers and nurtures the next generation of supermodels. Our mission is to empower individuals through inclusive initiatives that promote creativity, cultural exchange, and socio-economic development within the fashion industry.