Getting Gene & Tuvaine to London Pacific Fashion Week 2022

Kia orana,

Two very proud emerging pacific models, Gene Ngatai & Tuvaine Samuel. Who both call Porirua home have been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to walk the runways of London. Yes, LONDON!

They both started their modeling journey in 2020, and in this short amount of time have since then featured in numerous photoshoots, LPFW Editorial Magazine, Stuff News articles and even a Black & White Exhibit.

Gene is of Cook Island & Maori descent. Her lineage to the Pacific Islands is through her grandparents, Maria Tai Tamuera McMillan & Taratoa Matakovi from Aitutaki, Rarotonga, Atiu & Maui Hawaii. Her Maori lineage to Te Whanau-A-Apanui, Whakatohea & Ngati-Porou is through her grandparents Hoani Te Hingatu Ngatai & Ani Florence Te Atarangi Tupene.

Gene is also a mother of 3 children Manaia-Ruiha, Tremaine & Righteous'Lee-Mighty. A recent graduate of Te Wananga-O-Aotearoa, Netball manager & co-coach for her daughter's team.

Tuvaine Samuel (Cook Island: Mauke Akatokamanava, Rarotonga, Rakahanga, Mitiaro Nukuroa).

While in the UK, they will be modelling the garments of Pacific designers world wide as part of London Pacific Fashion Week. An event that showcases the culture and creators of the Pacific. In doing so, they proudly represent us all.

With this amazing opportunity comes...costs! All funds raised will go towards flights, accommodation, insurances, transportation while in London, MIQ on return to NZ, visas and any other event related expenses that may arise. In addition to this, we are seeking sponsorships to help take their small town dreams onto an international stage. Any donation whether big or small is deeply appreciated.

LPFW:

https://londonpacificfashion.wordpress.com/about/

Photo credit

Tuvaine Samuel: Tim Copsey

Gene Ngatai: Ian Rotherham