Makeup artists, designers and stylists flood the room, preparing models to hit the runway.
“I love being around the atmosphere,” model Nicole Johnson said. “Everybody’s happy, everybody feels great and we’re getting our makeup done. I look amazing.”
For what appears to be not only a fashion show but a fundraising event.
“I’ve been in a domestic relationship, so whatever I can do to support and get women help is my passion and bringing out their beauty as well,” cosmetologist Erin Hyzen said. “You’re literally making somebody that could be self-conscious, not self-conscious and totally give them their self-esteem back. And you literally see it on their face. Their faces start to glow.”
The ‘Diamond in the Rough’ fashion show, organized by Miss Julie’s School of Beauty, aims to end human trafficking by empowering the victims.
“Her idea is a place to start and it’s nothing to be ashamed about,” Hyzen said. “And it’s different than just a safe place. It’s going to give you a career.”
The event gains support to fund reintegration services for those affected by human trafficking.
“I’m so excited,” Miss Julie’s founder Julie Chapus said. “Truly, I’m looking to really create awareness, educate, help our models feel great about themselves and let’s get the school open. I think it’s really important for us just to continue educating, to continue talking so we can get the kinds of programs out there that have the money to help us open our school, and be aware of us.”
Serving as a reminder that every person has the potential to shine, even in the most challenging circumstances.
“They’re not just a piece of property and they’re not just something to be used,” Chapus said. “So it’s really been phenomenal to be able to give people that kind of self-esteem and confidence back and to have them participate in something so good. They know that this school is needed.
