COCO ROCHA MODEL CRMC – Embrace authenticity and excellence!
In September 2023, I embarked on a journey to one of the most transformative experiences a model could have and I attended the Coco Rocha Model Camp (CRMC). I went there with a background as an actor, performer and longtime practitioner (and world champion) of the martial art of Taekwondo. I had some exposure to being in front of a camera and on stage as a performer and athlete, but I definitely didn’t consider myself a model. As a former drama teacher, I’m a lifelong learner and I was seeking mentoring and training from the world’s best. I was drawn by Coco Rocha‘s experience, professionalism and ability to embrace diversity in all forms, including age and tattoos! Little did I know just how much this experience would resonate with me and shape my approach to stepping out into the world as a model.
It’s an industry masterclass and the camp kicked off with a pose class, and right from the start, I was reminded of something crucial, we all have wings, we just need to learn how to fly! The essence of being a model isn’t about fitting into some cookie cutter stereotype, it’s about authenticity and unapologetically embracing who you truly are. There’s nobody more unique than you, and that’s your strength. In a world that’s often obsessed with trends and sameness, finding your place by being yourself is absolutely powerful. Freedom baby!!
The sessions were more than just technical advice; they were lessons in the art and craft of being a model. We were given some practical tips on what to do when you step onto a set but it was the deeper insights that stuck with me. The art itself is a form of theatre—it’s about embodying a role, telling a story, expressing a narrative and being a visual voice for the designer’s vision. Plus you do everything to music so it’s doubly magical. She has a background as a dancer so movement to music is a recurring theme. I’ve spent years immersed in taekwondo and physical theatre was my favourite part of actor training, I loved the classes so much, physicality is my jam!
Another highlight was the runway session. We delved into the nitty-gritty of the art of runway. However, it’s not all rules, runway is also about the freedom to explore who you are when you embody a designer’s clothes. It was a reminder that we are visual voices for other creatives. It’s an ensemble and about bringing the designer’s story to life, and that requires a deep understanding of both yourself, the art of movement and the ethos of the aesthetic.
The capstone is a photo shoot! A defining moment, symbiotic energy that pulls it all together – you have creatives, fashion, hair and makeup glam teams, photographers, you as the muse and Coco in the editorial role – and it all ties together and makes perfect sense. It wasn’t about striving for perfection but rather about raising the bar on yourself—pushing towards freedom of expression, trust in yourself and the process, and pursuing excellence in the artform. All of your model camp mates are right there, they’ve got your back and are wishing you the best as you lay your heart and soul to bare. The journey was an amazing learning curve about being the best version of yourself.
CRMC shaped my approach to being a model and I’m proud to be involved in this amazing and creative industry. I’m ever grateful for the lessons learned and the growth that came from embracing my unique self in a world that often tells us to conform. Coco is very hands on, very funny and available to everyone as a true mentor, sharing insider hints and tips and challenging you to level up.
At CRMC you work on social media and branding as well. It’s a camp for the experienced to resharpen their tools, for those just starting out and in need of guidance, or for people like me who are taking a career pivot and adding a slashie role to their life. If you want to know more, get in touch with me or look up CRMC! It’ll change your life.
