Angela Sutherland will be representing Canada in the Top Model Worldwide 2015 competition.
The 24-year-old Hope resident was chosen as a grand finalist from more than 4,000 entries to compete March 13-14 in London, U.K.
“I am so blessed to have a chance to work with the best in the industry and as a new model it’s incredible,” said Sutherland. “Modeling is something I’ve always wanted to do. It’s a passion of mine.”
Sutherland was drawn to performing from an early age. She began dancing at the age of three and over the years has applied her stage experience to other areas. She’s worked as a showroom model for a Vancouver designer and worked with local photographers to gain experience and build her portfolio. Sutherland has also been working as a background actor for film and TV, and was cast in Christmas Icetastrophe which was shot in Hope and Chilliwack
“I’m really inspired by people in the industry. I want to be an inspiration as well and really help people achieve their goals,” said Sutherland, who currently works as a server at 293 Wallace Street Restaurant and as a housekeeper at Fraser Canyon Hospital. “I think modeling is expressing who you are. It’s a break to get away and be confident and be the person you envision yourself to be. It takes a lot of work, dedication, and a professional approach.”
Top Model Worldwide is one of the leading international professional model search competitions. The experienced team of industry professionals provide top-level coaching, guidance and support for finalists.
In addition to the many awards decided by a panel of judges, there is a public vote award which generates public support for each contestant and raises money for charity. All profits from voting go towards Top Model’s chosen charity, which for 2015 is Children with Cancer UK. Sutherland’s charity fundraising page is www.virginmoneygiving.com/AngelaS. Voting ends on March 11.
Sutherland is currently looking for sponsors to help with her competition efforts. She’s already partnered with 293 Wallace Street Restaurant, who secured her final spot in the competition. Anyone can sponsor Sutherland through the Top Model website at www.topmodelworldwide.com. Sutherland also wants to reach out to designers who would like to build their resume and have their clothing showcased on an international runway stage.
In addition, she’s currently fundraising to help cover her airfare, accommodation and transportation expenses. Sutherland recently suffered setbacks, which impacted her ability to save for the trip. In December, she was hospitalized by a virus that kept her away from work for more than a month. Soon after, she found out that her mother was very ill and used the little money she had to be with her.
Anyone interested in helping Sutherland can make donations online at www.gofundme.com/la8nwc. They can also be dropped off at 293 Wallace Street Restaurant.