Supermodels Unlimited Magazine’s Runway Walk for a Cause
Although Fashion Week is known for its breathtaking displays of style, it is also used as an opportunity to raise awareness of important causes. Supermodels Unlimited Magazine decided to shed light on suicide, the second leading cause of death amongst all young people. The publication called attention to suicide prevention resources and programs at their annual runway show benefiting The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ youth.
This season’s event was titled #YOLO: You Only Live Once. In order to combat the discrimination and bullying that countless teens face across America, SU gathered a group of strong voices to empower teens to stand up to societal pressure, encouraging them to reach out for support if needed. The evening—which brought together models, celebrities, influencers, and survivors—was a tribute to those whose lives have been lost to such ostracism.
The show was hosted by Jordan Kimball (ABC’s The Bachelorette) while celebrity DJ James Kennedy (Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules) spun tunes. Models who walked the catwalk came from diverse backgrounds, including America’s Next Top Model alumni Laura Kirkpatrick and Jeana Turner, as well as Kasey Cohen from Bravo’s Below Deck. They were joined by Mira Mariah, a social media influencer and personal tattoo artist for Ariana Grande, who wanted to further her mission of female empowerment. Photographer Erika Barker (MTV’s True Life and Oxygen’s STRUT) appeared on the catwalk as well in support of trans military personnel experiencing political discrimination in America. Among the designers who contributed custom garments for the models to sport that evening were Project Runway veterans Michael Costello, Edmond Newton, and Kelly Dempsey.
The night concluded with a special music tribute by American Idol’s Effie Passero, followed by a check bestowal to The Trevor Project. With empowering music and modeling, the evening was an overall triumph for suicide prevention awareness.
If you are contemplating suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or through the Crisis Text Line by texting “TALK” to 741-741.
Photo Credit: Getty Images