Eight faces and eight stories: the RUSSH Casting Files has brought together Australia’s next generation of modelling talent. Brady, Nelly, Siv, Tyra, Evie, Bria, Amelia and Ahmarli were selected for their individuality, confidence and presence – and now we get to see them shine.
As a platform committed to championing new voices, RUSSH in partnership with Kérastase, devised The Casting Files to platform Australia’s next generation of on-camera talent. Mentored by Charlee Fraser, the group worked with the RUSSH editorial team on a dedicated shoot, resulting in a series of striking portraits that showcase their personalities and self-expression – all styled with Kérastase’s Gloss Absolu range, to help highlight each finalist’s uniqueness.
The project is set to culminate in the Gloss Gallery – a one-day exhibition on March 28 at Verona One in Paddington. Open from 9am to 6pm, the gallery invites visitors to step inside the world of the Casting Files, with interactive experiences including express hair touch-ups, a photo booth, a live DJ, and fresh pastries (some with surprise Kérastase prizes). The Gloss Gallery marks the first time RUSSH brings its editorial vision into a physical space, offering a platform for emerging talent while celebrating mentorship, creativity and confidence.
So as we gear up to this weekend, get to know our eight RUSSH Casting Files finalists, below.
Siv
About me… “Hi, I’m Siv. I’ve been modelling for about two years now with Rebel Rebel agency. I enjoy collaborating with creatives to bring ideas to life and create image that feel authentic and impactful. I’m open, easygoing, and passionate about growing while staying true to myself and those around me.”
Confidence means to me… “Confidence to me means having trust within myself. It’s knowing who I am and being comfortable in my own skin, even when things don’t go as planned. It’s trusting my instincts, standing by my values and not needing constant approval from others. It is a calm belief that I am capable of learning, adapting and moving forward, no matter what comes my way.”
Nelly
About me… “Hi, I’m Nelly, and I am a trans girl from Sydney. I studied design at university and have interned and worked in fashion since then. Being in this industry has really inspired me to pursue opportunities in modelling, as I have a genuine love and passion for being part of a creative team’s vision. My favourite experience so far has been closing the Romance Was Born show during last year’s Australian Fashion Week.”
Confidence means to me… “Confidence means having acceptance and pride living as my authentic self. As a trans girl who started my transition two years ago, my confidence has grown from investing in myself through self-love and self-care. It comes from focusing on my own journey without comparing myself to others, working toward my goals in fashion, and nurturing relationships with people who genuinely love and support me for who I truly am.”
Brady
About me… “I’m 20 years old, currently working at a cafe while modelling on the side. I don’t see myself fitting into society’s expectations of what I should be. I stand out, and I’m proud of what sets me apart. I live everyday as my future self which is a top model walking every single runway in the world. I am so hungry, and so ready for it that I’ll do just about anything to get there.”
Confidence means to me… “Confidence to me is being truly and authentically myself. To not care about how I’m perceived by other people because it’s not my business what they think of me! Having the audacity to go after my dreams with no hesitation is my way of living authentically as myself. Confidence means I can live my life on my terms. “
Tyra
About me… “My name is Tyra Jennipher, and I am a 20-year-old creative who relocated from Perth to Melbourne last year. I’m currently studying a Diploma in Fashion Design at Collarts, where I continue to develop my passion for creativity and visual storytelling. I am proudly Kenyan and deeply connected to my Luo heritage. I cherish my features as reflections of the women who came before me and take pride in representing that. I recently began modelling and have quickly grown to love being a muse for artists and creatives, and help bring their visions to life. I find inspiration in collaborating with other creative and passionate individuals. Outside of the industry I enjoy yoga, reading and drawing, which nurture my creativity and sense of balance. I’m excited to continue growing within the fashion and creative space and look forward to seeing where this journey takes me.”
Confidence to me… “Confidence to me is an unshakable belief in yourself. A sense of security in your identity that remains steady regardless of what your surroundings or other people in your surroundings may suggest. It’s trusting your determination and abilities enough to pick yourself back up again after setbacks. It’s the ability to receive feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than as an insult to your skills. It’s a quality I admire in others and continually strive to cultivate within myself.”
Evie
About me… “I am Evelyn Anne Chong, I turned 18 last year and grew up on the Gold Coast. In my personal time I love to swim in the ocean, read books and play piano. I commenced a Bachelor of Politics and International relations this February at Sydney University, and I’m hoping to live in Newtown and expand my career as a model. I began modelling last year, and found that it has nurtured a sense of confidence within myself, as well as amplified my appreciation for art.”
Confidence to me… “True confidence is found within an individual’s ability to admire the energy, style and presence of others, while still withholding a sense of certainty and light within yourself. Confidence allows you to lift others up, to find strength from within and to have faith in your inner voice. Confidence nurtures the individual ability to make decisions, and hold a sense of voice and agency in situations of crisis or passion.”
Bria
About me… “My name is Bria, I’m 19-years-old from Western Sydney. I’ve always been drawn to fashion and modelling because they allow you to express creativity and individuality. I love how style can tell a story and empower people to feel their best. This opportunity would mean so much to me as it represents a chance to grow, learn from industry professionals, and take meaningful steps toward building a career in a space I’m truly passionate about.”
Confidence to me… “As a young model, and even more so a young women in today’s world, confidence to me means believing in myself even if no one else does. Knowing that my walk, my look, and my story don’t need permission to exist. It’s trusting in myself on days when comparison creeps in. Believing that every casting, every rejection and every win is growth in itself that takes time and is all apart of the process.”
Amelia
About me… “I’m a recent university graduate and an Indigenous woman with a strong creative drive and a deep love for self-expression. I began modelling as a teenager, an experience that shaped my confidence and eye for style, before stepping away to focus on my studies and personal growth. Now, I’m reconnecting with that creative side through styling, photography, and storytelling. I’m drawn to fashion as a form of communication – how clothing, images, and perspective can reflect identity, culture, and mood. Outside of creative work, I love reading and learning, and am always curious and open to new ideas. Grounded in both education and creativity, I value authenticity, intention, and growth, and I’m excited to continue blending my academic background with my creative passions as I move forward.”
Confidence to me… “Confidence, to me, is rooted in self-worth: knowing I am enough before I ever step into a room. It’s the quiet assurance that I don’t need approval to take up space. Outfit styling becomes an extension of that belief: choosing clothes that reflect how I feel, not how I’m expected to look. When I dress with intention, I feel aligned, grounded, and visible on my own terms. Confidence isn’t about being flawless, it’s about honouring myself, trusting my instincts, and showing up authentically, whether that’s through my voice, my work, or the way I present myself to the world. It’s also built through education and learning. Educating myself – about the world, my passions, and myself – gives me clarity and conviction.”
Ahmarli
About me… “Hi, I’m Ahmarli, I have just turned 19 and I am from Perth. I am a proud Indonesian, Somalian, Kenyan, English, Australian girl. I am the oldest of six girls, and I love spending time with my family. I have also been a dancer my whole life, and my favourite style is hip hop. I am 100% a beach person, so I love summer and tropical energy. I also love travelling, anything that includes my sisters, and trying new foods.”
Confidence to me… “Confidence to me means being yourself. My life motto has been to be yourself since I was a probably 10. I personally believe that confidence comes from your heart. If you can love yourself, and be grateful for being alive, then you can be the best version of yourself. You don’t need to be perfect to be confident, because no one’s perfect. Some days you won’t feel your best, and we all have days like that. But by training your mindset and only thinking positive thoughts (faking it ’til you make it), you’ll feel more confident. I’ll admit, I’m not the most confident person in the world, but I make sure to always be myself as that is what will get you noticed for the right reasons.”
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