I get emails all the time about “How can I become a plus size model?” In all cases I refer ladies to Gwen Devoe and Devoe Signature Events. Why because Gwen has always been on top of things and with the Plus Academy she has broken new ground across the country. The latest incarnation of the event that helps launch the careers of plus size models is going to hit the San Fransisco, Bay Area and be managed by my good friend the Curvy Fashionista herself, Marie Denee!
Aspiring plus models now have the platform to build, develop, and enhance their modeling skills with the launch of The Plus Academy BAY AREA. Executive Director, Gwen DeVoe has carefully chosen her staff and has appointed plus size fashion blogger, journalist, and boutique owner, Marie Denee, as the Regional Director for the Bay Area.
On April 10th, 2010, the Plus Academy BAY AREA will host its first open house in partnership with plus size fashion designer, Igigi. Potential attendees of the Plus Academy BAY AREA will have the opportunity to meet with Executive Director, Gwen DeVoe, and regional director, Marie Denee. Instructors for the Plus Academy BAY AREA will also be in attendance. These instructors include former model and runway coach,Charleston Pierce of Charleston Pierce Presents; Fashion on the Square director and producer, Y’Anad Burrell; professional model, Dana Roeting; and makeup artist Tracey Brown of Blinging Beauty.
The Plus Academy BAY AREA is also proud to announce its sponsors for the first Spring session. They include Igigi, Plus Model Magazine, East Bay Loop, Bay Area Professional Women Network (BAPWN), Hands of Healing Massage and Spa Studio, Classic 8 Designs, Full Figure Entertainment, and Naturally Delicious Skin.
Please visit the website for more information about the Plus Academy BAY AREA.
About the Executive Director, Gwen DeVoe
Gwen DeVoe, C.E.O. of DeVoe Signature Events, has risen to international prominence recently for creating and producing the first ever Full Figured Fashion Week™ in New York. Featured in the finale fashion show were models whose careers have been shaped by training through Gwen DeVoe’s Plus Academy, the country’s leading training and development academy dedicated to plus size women and teens.
About The Plus Academy
Since 1999, the Plus Academy has provided unsurpassed training and guidance, helping to launch the careers of several plus models, many of whom have appeared in print ads, runway showcases, television programs, online magazines, designer showcases, pageants and more. They have also offered a variety of personal development and lifestyle workshops for plus size women and pre-teenagers.
Gwen has expanded her Academy to reach plus size women on a regional level. In March, The Plus Academy debuted across the country, with workshops taught by a team of professionals who are experienced in the plus size market and in conducting workshops associated with issues affecting plus size models. “I am delighted to announce the openings of several Plus Academy programs across the nation…” beams Gwen DeVoe. “ …aspiring plus models need a place where they can get credible training in an industry that is already very tough to maneuver. We pride ourselves on being the number one resource for all things related to the plus modeling industry.”
The Plus Academy has been integral in the success of several plus models who received their training with the academy. Former student and plus model Shanta Washington feels that her training at The Academy was essential to her growth as a model. “The Plus Academy served as the gateway to success AND self acceptance for me at a pivotal time in my life…”, Shanta reflects. “The Academy was the greatest starting point for me as an aspiring model while at the same time, the instructors and volunteers helped me to become in touch with my inner self…they taught me self acceptance on another level. I would never trade my experiences and the knowledge gained through The Plus Academy and the Director, Gwen DeVoe for anything in the world…I owe my career to it!” Shanta has gone on to appear in several magazines, including Essence.
