For first time entrants in the inaugural Illawarra’s Top Model final this Saturday there is one person making them all feel more comfortable.
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Jessica Pinkerton’s smile and outgoing personality is creating a warm friendly atmosphere that is fostering a culture where every entrant is encouraging and supporting each other.
For organiser Robyn te Velde it has been great to have someone of Ms Pinkerton’s experience so willing to share all she knows with her competitors, answer any questions and make them all feel comfortable.
On the catwalk and in her photo shoot with Alex Sturman she stepped up with confidence and a big smile and set the scene that helped everyone feel more relaxed.
Ms Pinkerton was dressed by Marcelle Gosling and had her hair and make-up by Alison McEwan, of Alive Salon in Dapto.
She is loving the opportunity to share what she knows and help give every entrant more chance to win.
She is in it to help make a difference for people suffering mental health issues but also thinks it is great to be able to help build confidence in other young people.
In 2013 Ms Pinkerton was a Top 10 finalist in the Miss World Australia national final and won the Interview Award in Miss Sydney Australia.
She is an active member of the community and is presently the president of the Illawarra chapter of Junior Chamber International (JCI).
Ms Pinkerton said Illawarra’s Top Model was different for her.
“I have found myself in this mentoring position and I have really enjoyed it,’’ she said.
“Having the girls come to me with questions and be able to give them advice makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. It is really nice. We have a fabulous vibe and fabulous culture. I have made a point of really trying to foster that with the girls.’’
Ms Pinkerton said it had been great to see how far they had come and grown in a short time. As has seeing how well they all get along.
She said it was not like a competition at all because everyone was so supportive and encouraging of each other.
It has also been different because all her other quests have been in Sydney or Melbourne.
‘’To have this opportunity come to Wollongong is great,’’ she said.
‘’And the potential this has to grow is fantastic.’’
Ms Pinkerton has raised a significant amount of money for mental health. Her boss Kevin Ayres at the Commonwealth Bank even gave $500 towards the cause.
And have her mum Franki Pinkerton entered the Shoot the Model competition.