I’ve recently come to a decision. The decision to get back in to modeling. I used to be with Viviens Model Management in Australia and have also worked in Europe. It was fun and I loved everyone that I worked with. After everything I’ve been through and learnt in the last couple of years though, I really thought my modeling days were over. I just didn’t think it was possible to model and be kind to animals, the environment and other people. So much of the fashion industry still kills animals, uses slave labour and has no concern for the damage they are doing to the planet.
Lately though, I keep coming across more and more brands and companies that are making changes and are trying to tread a little lighter on our beautiful home.
Which leads me to my decision. I’ve decided to become an Eco-Model. Australia’s first eco-model in fact. There is one other ‘Eco-Model’ in the world that I know of and her name is Summer Rayne Oakes (I’m still unsure whether this is her actual name or she changed it to sound more eco). Maybe I should do the same….Blossom Sunflower? Winter Moon? Autumn Rose? Perhaps I’ll just stick with Amanda Rootsey. Regardless of whether it is a real or fake name, Summer Rayne Oakes is one inspiring woman who has tried her hand at many things, all in the name of saving the environment.
So, “What the hell is an eco-model?” you say. Well it’s a very broad term and means different things to different people. To me, it means that I will work for brands that are trying to produce their garments/products in a more eco-friendly and ethical way. For example, they may use organic fabrics, have their garments made locally and do not exploit any people or animals in the production of their garments. Some companies take their eco-friendliness (not sure if I just made this word up) very seriously and have made changes that include recycled packaging, being completely carbon-neutral and issuing bicycles to all staff. Whatever the level, if a company is trying to make any or all of these changes, I am very willing to help and have also been working on a consultancy basis with some brands to assist them in transitioning to a completely vegan range, amongst other things.
I suggested this idea of an Eco-Model to my old booker at Viviens and, well, I got the response that I expected and a very sweet and sincere, ‘Good luck, darling.’ So, I’m going to give it a go on my own. This way I will have complete control over who I choose to work with and will be able to work more closely with each client to help build their brand. I’m VERY excited. In fact I already have some clients. Woohoo!
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| Sanctus Stones Motivational Jewellery shoot. |
So that’s my big decision. Nothing much else is going to change. I’m still living in a caravan, still getting dirty in the garden, still making things, still trying to be as healthy as I can and still enjoying my quiet little life. You might just start to see a bit more eco-fashion posts. Oh and I will have a new site up very very soon. 🙂
Yee ha! You rock x
Courageous & Inspirational! Go Amanda! xxx
Hell yes – we need more eco models!! Set ur heart on fire + light up the world with your message 🙂 xoxox
Um LOVE it. Plus you will get free clothes, probably! And WE will learn about more eco brands!!!!!!!!! Yeah!!! And you are beautiful and we can say that easily because you are beautiful inside and out as is SO evident from your radiance & beautiful smile.
Oh wow, thanks so much for your support and beautiful words girls! Love you guys!!! xxxx
Just stunning! What a role model you are, Amanda, for living what you believe in. You are truly an inspiration.
Brilliant! your an amazing person…a true inspiration!
Good luck to you and "HOORAY" for following your heart and being kind to Mother Nature! We can all learn from you!
Go you good thing! The best decision ever – the fashion world has missed you! xxxx
I LOVE that!!! It's something I'd love to do too. it's fabulous when all you do is aligned with all you are.
Awesome work!
Thanks so much Jess, Chizelle, Charlotte, Heidi & Ky, for your beautiful words of encouragement!
You and Summer Rayne are both inspirational. (And it is indeed her real name btw; I am an advisor to her new company – http://www.source4style.com). So I wouldn't change yours!
Haha thanks Damon. Well it's a beautiful name and it suits her!
Congrats, such a great alignment with the way you live your life, and an example for all of us on walking the walk (or is that walking the talk… ? Well, you know what I mean!).
Thanks Lucie, I love your blog blue bell beat!
Well you are clearly soooo gorgeous, it is great to see that you are modeling again. I have only begun to get to know you, but from what I have read so far, you are beautiful on the inside and out. Lynne xx
haha thanks Lynne for all of your beautiful comments! I love making new friends while sitting in my PJs and I feel like I know you quite well already!! Your blog is such a lovely, honest breath of fresh air – thank you. xx