Local designer does the double in Courts Fashionista Competition

Up-and-coming designer Jamal Jacob says he is feeling great after winning the Courts Fashionista Competition for the second straight year.

The Mckies Hill resident says that winning the competition has added an extra boost to his confidence and that the victory was a proud moment for him, which he wanted to share with his supporters.{{more}}

“I must thank all the people who have been standing by me, starting with the Father above, and my team of Tellia, Shane, Joannes, Rondine, Miss Clouden and especially my mom and grandmother, and all my fans out there.

“Their support has inspired me and I look forward to moving on to greater things in the future.”

Jacob, whose piece captured the imagination of the judges and the hundreds of persons who flocked the Courts showroom floor to get a view of the 12 designs that were paraded last Thursday, also thanked Courts for giving him the opportunity to showcase his talent to the public.

The dress, modelled elegantly by Rondine Browne, was inspired by the Claude furniture line, which is available exclusively at the furniture, appliance, electronics and optical store.

Jacob said he decided to defend his title after winning last year, because he wanted more people to see his creative skills.

He said he hopes to move on to bigger things, and is not sure about next year, because he wants to give others a chance to shine. “My advice to young and upcoming designers like me is to be brave. I know you have the talent, so you need to show it.”

The self-taught designer said that he has been designing and making clothing for the past three years, after looking at his friends design and sew, and asking questions and getting help from friends.

For winning the competition, Jacob received $2,500, along with other prizes, with Chenise Hendrickson placing second, and Owen Paul, third.

Jacob believes that the Courts Fashionista Competition is a great way to have designers showcase their abilities with little to no pressure. He praised Courts for the opportunity that the show is giving persons like him, and says he looks forward to the event continuing long into the future.

Courts commercial manager Lisa Veira congratulated Jacob and the 11 other designers who took part in the competition and indicated that the event was a successful one, mainly for highlighting the talent of Vincentians.

“We at Courts are happy to be able to create an avenue for talented Vincentians to show their abilities. This is just one way in which we do it and by all accounts, it is very successful,” Veira said.

“Courts thanks all the participants and their teams, the judges and of course, the many persons who came in and supported them and us in this venture,” Veira added.