From Sports to Disney: Mini Miss Contestants Dazzle at Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 has officially come and gone, and what an incredible celebration of fashion, confidence and young talent it was! Held at Werriwa Theatre at Revesby Workers’ Club, the event brought together some of Sydney’s most stylish emerging models, with one of the biggest highlights being the highly anticipated Mini Miss Model of the Year competition.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

Eight talented young contestants took to the stage, each bringing their own unique personality, confidence and sense of style to the competition. Competing across three exciting themes — Sports, Formal and Disney — the girls had the opportunity to showcase their versatility while entertaining the audience with their incredible stage presence.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

From glamorous formal gowns to energetic sports-inspired looks and magical Disney-themed outfits, every contestant looked absolutely amazing. Each young model brought something special to the stage, making the competition a memorable highlight of Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

A huge shoutout goes to Sunny, Ebony, Amelia, Georgia, Valentina, Virinnia, Zoe and Arabella for their outstanding performances. Their confidence, enthusiasm and dedication were evident throughout the competition, and every single contestant should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

As the final awards were announced, the excitement inside Werriwa Theatre continued to build. The competition recognised the girls across a range of categories, celebrating their individual strengths and talents.

Virinnia was named Best in Formal Wear, while Arabella took home the award for Best in Sports Wear. Valentina impressed in the Disney-inspired theme and was awarded Best in Theme Wear.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

The individual personality and performance awards also recognised some standout moments from the competition. Amelia received Best in Stage Presence, while Georgia was named Best in Personality. Zoe was awarded Rising Star, and Ebony took home Most Promising Model.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

The competition then reached its thrilling finale with the announcement of the overall placements. Sunny was crowned Model of the Year 2nd Runner-Up, while Arabella earned the title of Model of the Year 1st Runner-Up.

Photo Credit: Victor Hawk

And then came the moment everyone had been waiting for.

Congratulations to Virinnia, who was crowned the Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 Mini Miss Model of the Year Grand Winner!

Her outstanding performance across all three themes, combined with her confidence and stage presence, earned her the coveted crown.

Photo Credit: Dave Choo

As part of her exciting journey following the competition, Virinnia will also be gracing the cover of StarCentral Kids magazine shortly, marking another fantastic milestone for the young star.

Congratulations once again to Virinnia and to every one of the Mini Miss contestants. Sydney’s Best Dressed 2026 proved that the future of fashion and modelling is looking incredibly bright!

Grand International Fashion Festival 2026: A World of Colour, Fun, and Style!

Photo Credit: Mohan Raj

The Grand International Fashion Festival 2026 was an exciting, colourful celebration of fashion, creativity, and culture that wowed kids and families alike! Hosted in Sydney and organised by StarCentral Magazine, Flagcom, and RGEM Promotions & Management in collaboration with StarCentral Kids, the festival brought together amazing designers, performers, and models from all over the world for a night full of glitz, glamour, and fun.

The show kicked off with a Recycled Runway theme, with models strutting down the catwalk in clothes made from recycled materials. It was not only stylish but also a reminder that fashion can be friendly to the planet! The audience clapped and cheered as each outfit showed how creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Kids and grown-ups were also treated to some fantastic dance performances. The young dancers of Eyekons wowed everyone with their energy and precision, while Cel Brooke, famous for her Zumba and Latin-style routines, electrified the crowd. Even the Australian Mindanao Dancers brought colourful costumes and rhythm that made everyone want to dance along!

The fashion part of the festival was just as amazing. Kristina Clarke and her KKB Models showcased a fun Denim and Gold Theme collection, full of attitude and style. There were also stunning couture dresses from Ambisioza and elegant designs by Walid, showing off creativity from Afghanistan. One of the biggest highlights was Olan Roque from the Philippines, who brought beautiful Filipino-inspired designs straight from Manila, leaving the crowd cheering!

The festival also celebrated some very special stars. StarCentral Kids Cover Star Zara Griffiths and StarCentral Magazine Cover Star Bella Dela Cruz made appearances on the runway, inspiring young fans to dream big. And for the very first time ever, StarCentral Magazine’s International Ambassadors — including Grace, Zara, Milan, Reeha, Avayiah, Emmy, and Taisha — showed off their poise and confidence, representing the magazine on an international stage!

The grand finale of the show featured the amazing collection of international designer Olan Roque. The runway sparkled as models showcased his colourful and elegant designs inspired by Filipino culture. Each outfit was full of beautiful details, bright fabrics, and a creative style that made the audience smile and cheer. It was the perfect way to end the festival, leaving kids and families feeling inspired by the magic of fashion, creativity, and cultures from around the world.

The Grand International Fashion Festival 2026 wasn’t just about clothes—it was a magical night of colour, creativity, and expression where kids could see how fun and inspiring the world of fashion can be. From glittering dresses to lively dance moves and amazing international talent, the festival showed that fashion is for everyone, no matter your age!

Stars of Tomorrow: Miss Teen Earth Australia 2025 Chantelle, and StarCentral Cover Models Zara, and Grace Dazzle at The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival

Photo Credit: Dave Choo

Blue Mountains Botanical Garden sets the stage for emerging talent in an unforgettable showcase of style and elegance.

The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival dazzled attendees on 18 May with a spectacular display of talent and glamour at the breathtaking Blue Mountains Botanical Garden. This year’s event included a collaboration between MDC Academy and Regal Star Productions, spotlighting some of Australia’s brightest young modelling talents in a celebration of fashion, culture, and emerging creativity.

Leading the group was the recently crowned Miss Teen Earth Australia 2025, Chantelle Tabone.. She was joined by Zara, the 2024 Sydney’s Best Dressed Model of the year winner and a former StarCentral Magazine cover model, and Grace, a former StarCentral Kids cover model.. The runway came alive with a diverse line-up of up-and-coming kid and teen models, including Mufaro, Tariro, Zoe, Pearl, Sophia, Layla, Alexis, and Ebony, each delivering standout moments throughout the show.

The models showcased an array of formal gowns and autumn wear, highlighted by exquisite Ambisioza Ball Gowns that added a regal flair to the evening. The combination of bold design and youthful sophistication created an atmosphere of beauty, empowerment, and creative expression.

The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival not only celebrated fashion but also provided a vital platform for the next generation of models to shine. With the stunning natural backdrop of the Blue Mountains and an impressive roster of talent, the event was a true testament to the vibrant future of Australian fashion.

Check Out the Photos Courtesy of Dave Choo:

Introducing Chantelle: Meet The Beauty Queen Behind The Latest Issue Of Stargazer Kids Magazine

Photo Credit: Bob Reyes

Chantelle Tabone has been crowned Miss Teen Earth Australia 2025, also taking home the title of Miss Photogenic. With a passion for performance and a heart for helping others, Chantelle is already proving she’s a role model for the next generation.

From the stage to the sports field, Chantelle balances a busy life. She’s taken part in Kidz Fashion Week (2023 and 2024), featured in the Junior Theatre Festival Pilot Cast 2024, and performed in productions like Shrek: The Musical and The Lion King Jr. Outside the spotlight, she enjoys acting, dancing, and playing netball.

Photo Credit: Bob Reyes

More than just a pretty face, Chantelle has big ambitions. She is currently studying to become a paediatrician, driven by her goal to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and the wider community.

As a proud advocate for the environment, Chantelle believes change begins at home. She encourages others to reduce plastic pollution by reusing containers, buying in bulk, and supporting eco-conscious businesses. She highlights the power of recycling, not only in conserving resources but also in bringing communities together.

Photo Credit: Bob Reyes

Chantelle is also passionate about giving back to nature. On Earth Day, she plans to join local conservation efforts, including tree planting and beach clean-ups, while inspiring others through social media and community events.

With beauty, brains, and a bold vision for the future, Chantelle Tabone is truly a teen to watch.

Emerging DTR Stars Shine in Autumn Wear at The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival Runway

The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival was nothing short of spectacular, and one of the standout showcases was the Dreams to Reality Runway segment, which brought emerging talents to the forefront of the fashion scene.

Led by Bonni Sullivan, the runway segment featured a stunning display of Autumn wear, celebrating bold prints, structured silhouettes, and youthful energy. Among the standout talents were Paisley, Genevieve, Aita, Arabella, Savannah, Yazmane, Zara G, Taisha, Kirsty, Avayiah, and more—each model bringing their own unique flair and confidence to the catwalk.

Headlining the lineup was Paisley, the adorable cover model of the very first issue of Dreams to Reality Runway magazine, who brought poise and presence to the catwalk.

Also gracing the runway were two cover stars who turned heads with their charisma and style: Tenneysee, the StarCentral Kids May 2025 Cover Model, and Grace, the Model & Mode magazine May 2025 Cover Model. Their presence added a touch of glamour and star power to the already impressive line-up.

The Dreams to Reality segment was more than just a fashion showcase—it was a celebration of potential, diversity, and the next generation of fashion trailblazers.

Check out some of the incredible moments captured by Dave Choo in the photos below.

       

StarCentral Kids, Model & Mode, and Dreams to Reality Runway Shine at the 2025 Asian Fashion Festival

Photo Credit: Dave Choo

The 2025 Asian Fashion Festival turned heads and stole hearts as three prominent publications — StarCentral Kids magazine, Model & Mode magazine, and the recently launched Dreams to Reality Runway (DTR) magazine — made a striking appearance on the runway. Celebrating diversity, rising talent, and bold fashion, the showcase was a true testament to the strength and creativity within the next generation of modelling.

The runway sizzled with confidence and flair as a stellar line-up of emerging models, all of whom have graced the pages of these leading publications, brought their A-game to the catwalk. Among the standouts was Paisley, the current DTR Magazine cover model, whose poise and presence set the tone for a dazzling show.

She was joined by a dynamic group of DTR featured models:

  • Genevieve

  • Aita

  • Arabella

  • Savannah

  • Yazmane

  • Zara G

  • Taisha

  • Kirsty

Each model brought their own unique energy, walking with confidence, creativity, and style that reflected the empowering ethos of Dreams to Reality Runway.

Adding even more sparkle to the showcase was Tenneysee, the StarCentral Kids May 2025 Cover Model, representing a new wave of young talent emerging through the DTR Runway platform. Her vibrant spirit and charm captivated the audience, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to making an impact.

Also gracing the stage was Grace, the Model & Mode magazine May 2025 Cover Model, whose elegance and stage presence underscored why she’s a name to watch in the Australian modelling scene.

This appearance by StarCentral Kids, Model & Mode, and DTR magazine not only spotlighted exceptional young talent but also reaffirmed their commitment to providing platforms that launch dreams into reality. The crowd was left inspired by the charisma, professionalism, and authenticity of these rising stars, making it clear that the future of fashion is in bold, capable hands.

Check out the photos below courtesy of Dave Choo:

Experience the Magic of Mini, Little, Junior & Teen Earth Australia 2025!

Get ready for an unforgettable event that celebrates young eco-leaders and future environmental champions! Mini, Little, Junior, and Teen Earth Australia 2025 is set to take the stage, and you’re invited to witness this incredible journey firsthand!

What to Expect?

Join us for a day filled with inspiration, confidence, and environmental awareness as young contestants showcase their passion for our planet. Watch as they walk the stage with grace, deliver powerful messages about sustainability, and compete for prestigious titles that will empower them to make a difference.

Event Details

🗓 Date: 23rd March 2025
🏨 Venue: Bryan Brown Theatre & Function Centre, Bankstown, NSW

Why Attend?

🌟 Be inspired by young changemakers who are passionate about the environment
👑 Witness the crowning moment of the next Mini, Little, Junior & Teen Earth Australia winners
🎤 Enjoy engaging presentations and eco-conscious messages from future leaders
📸 Capture memorable moments as contestants take the stage with confidence and elegance

A Special Highlight!

The newly crowned titleholders will have the incredible opportunity to walk the stage at Miss Earth Australia 2025! 🌍✨ Don’t miss this chance to see them take their first steps toward greatness!

This is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of leadership, environmental advocacy, and personal growth. Mark your calendars and join us for a spectacular event that promises to inspire and entertain!

Come and be part of this extraordinary event as we celebrate the future of young environmental leaders! 🌿👑

TV6 Shines a Spotlight on AGSA Academy’s Brightest Young Talents: Paisley, Arabella & Charli

Three incredible young stars are making waves in the modelling world, and they’re all part of the AGSA Academy – a special talent program created through an exciting collaboration between Dreams to Reality Runway, StarCentral Magazine, MS Entertainment Network and TV6.

Recently, TV6 got the chance to chat with Paisley Elizabeth Sullivan, Arabella Raptis and Charli Palmer — three bright young girls proving that you’re never too young to follow your dreams. Let’s meet them!

Paisley Elizabeth Sullivan – Tiny Model, Big Dreams

At just three years old, Paisley Elizabeth Sullivan is already a record-breaker! She’s officially the youngest international model to walk the runway at Fashion Week 2024, and she totally rocked it.

Paisley’s modelling career started when she was only two, and she’s already been featured in magazine photoshoots, TV appearances, and even landed the cover story for MS Entertainment Magazine. Talk about impressive!

What makes Paisley so special? It’s her confidence, creativity and fearless attitude on the runway. Whether she’s dressed in glamorous gowns or showing off fun, colourful outfits, Paisley knows how to own the catwalk.

When she’s not busy modelling, Paisley loves to swim, dance, and hang out with her cheeky pup Quickster. With so much talent and passion, there’s no doubt Paisley’s modelling journey is just getting started!

Arabella Raptis – Runway Queen in the Making

Seven-year-old Arabella Raptis has already built a super impressive modelling resume — and she’s only just begun! She’s won titles like Walk the Runway Mini Winner 2024, Radiance Runway Tiny Ambassador 2023, and Pure International Little Miss 2023.

Arabella’s not just about the pretty outfits (although she does love those too!) — she’s got grace, confidence, and a whole lot of style every time she steps onto the runway. Whether she’s competing in pageants, performing on stage, or strutting down the catwalk, Arabella’s energy is totally contagious.

She also loves to dance and encourage her friends, proving she’s not only a star herself but also a kind and supportive role model. With her big smile and big dreams, Arabella is definitely a rising star to watch.

Charli Palmer – A Shining Star with a Heart of Gold

Sweet, gentle and full of sparkle — that’s Charli Palmer! This young model may be a little bit shy at first, but once you get to know her, her warmth and excitement shine through.

Charli’s love for fashion and modelling recently saw her walk the runway at the World’s Best Dressed fashion preview in December, where she confidently stepped into the spotlight and showed everyone her natural talent for the catwalk.

When Charli’s not posing for photos or strutting her stuff, she loves dancing, swimming, and spending time with her family and Quickster, her playful pup.

With her kind heart, beautiful smile, and growing confidence, Charli is showing everyone that being yourself is the best way to shine — both on and off the runway!

These three amazing girls are proof that hard work, confidence and having fun can help you chase your dreams — no matter how young you are. Keep an eye out for Paisley, Arabella & Charli, because their journeys have only just begun!

Check out their TV6 interview below:

Dreams to Reality Runway Models Shine at the Golden Sash Awards 2025

The Australian Golden Sash Awards 2025 was an unforgettable night, filled with glamour, excitement, and celebration! Held on Saturday, February 15, at the luxurious Hilton Sydney, the prestigious event recognised outstanding achievements across the pageant, fashion, media, entrepreneurship, and modelling industries. Among the stars of the night was Dreams to Reality Runway, a collective group that proved to be a true force to be reckoned with.

A Night of Success for Dreams to Reality Runway

Dreams to Reality Runway CEO, Bonni Sullivan, took home the coveted Emerging Director of the Year award for her outstanding leadership and dedication to nurturing young talent. But that wasn’t all—her daughter, Paisley, was also recognised for her incredible achievements, winning the Breakthrough Star of the Year award! It was a proud moment for the mother-daughter duo, proving that hard work and passion can make dreams come true.

Celebrating the Next Generation of Superstars

Dreams to Reality Runway wasn’t just there to celebrate its own success—it also had the honour of presenting awards to some of the most promising young models in Australia. These talented individuals have been making waves in the industry, and the Golden Sash Awards gave them the recognition they truly deserved.

Here are the young stars who shone the brightest on the night:

AudreyFresh Talent of the Year 🏆 Recognised for her natural presence and potential in the industry.

AitaModel Discovery of the Year 🌟 A rising talent with an exciting future ahead.

ZaraYoung Runway Star 💫 Celebrated for her confidence and skill on the catwalk.

OrianaBreakthrough Model of the Year 🎉 An emerging model to watch out for in 2025.

ArabellaMost Promising Model 👑 A future fashion model in the making.

BridgettModel Breakthrough Award ✨ Recognised for her outstanding progress and achievements.

EbonyJunior Talent & Personality Award 🎭 Honoured for her charisma and charm in the industry.

MiaEmerging Model of the Year 🚀 A young talent who is already making a name for herself.

ThandeVersatile Young Model Award 🌟 Applauded for her adaptability and range on the runway.

Winter BellMost Inspiring New Model ❄️ A young star who has been inspiring many with her journey.

AvaInspiring Young Model Award 💖 Celebrated for her determination and passion for fashion.

IzabellahUp-and-Coming Model of the Year 🌟 Recognised as a rising star with incredible potential.

SavannahMost Photogenic Model of the Year 📸 With a camera-ready look and effortless beauty.

TenneyseeRising Star Model of the Year ✨ A young model with an undeniable spark.

TariroModel Breakthrough Award 🎉 Celebrated for her impressive progress in the industry.

TaishaUpcoming Model of the Year 👠 A fresh face making waves in the fashion world.

EmmyFuture Supermodel Award 🌍 With her confidence and talent, Emmy is set to take over the industry!

The Future of Fashion is Bright!

The Golden Sash Awards 2025 was a night to remember, not just for the winners but for everyone who is passionate about fashion and modelling. Events like this inspire young talents to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.

The success of Dreams to Reality Runway and its talented models shows that the next generation of runway stars is ready to take on the world. With dedication, confidence, and support, these young models are well on their way to turning their dreams into reality.

Who knows? Maybe next year, you could be walking the runway and winning an award at the Golden Sash Awards! 💫

Check out some of the photos below courtesy of Mohan Raj:

Meet Ashleigh Hammond: The 14-Year-Old Pageant Queen Advocating for Autism Awareness

Photo Credit: Tony Palliser of Studio 49

At just 14 years old, Ashleigh Hammond has already made significant strides in both advocacy and personal achievement. Recently crowned Junior Teen Australia Regency for 2024, Ashleigh uses her platform to raise awareness for autism, inspired by her older sister. Through her charity organisation, Ashleigh’s Autism Advocates, she is dedicated to educating the world on what autism awareness truly entails.

Advocacy and Fundraising

Ashleigh’s commitment to her cause is evident in her fundraising efforts. She has successfully raised $600 for Giant Steps Autism and an additional $570 through the Pageant Ultimate Grand Supreme charity donation via Inspire Pageants. Her charity, Ashleigh’s Autism Advocates, serves as a platform for educating people globally about autism. Ashleigh has also set up a donation link where all contributions support Giant Steps Autism.

In addition to her fundraising, Ashleigh made a powerful impact on the international stage last year by delivering a speech about autism acceptance and the realities of living with a disabled sibling. Her ultimate goal is to create a world where people with disabilities are not discriminated against, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.

Talents and Achievements

Ashleigh’s talents extend beyond her advocacy work. She has been passionate about competitive dancing since she was two years old, dedicating hours each day to perfecting her craft. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ann McDonald Scholarship for dance at the McDonald College for years 7-9, as well as winning the year 7 dance award in 2022 and the year 8 dance award in 2023.

In addition to dancing, Ashleigh is involved in modelling, acting, and is a beginner in sign language. She is currently preparing for her acting examination later this year, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the performing arts.

Pageantry Success

Ashleigh’s journey in pageantry began in 2022, and she has since fallen in love with the experience. Her enthusiasm and hard work have paid off, earning her titles such as Junior Teen Australia Regency, Junior Teen Oceania Regency, Teen NSW Sunburst, Ultimate Grand Supreme, Grande Supreme, and Supremes.

Last year, Ashleigh competed at the Regency International Organisation in Las Vegas, where she placed 3rd Runner Up internationally. She is thrilled to be back, proudly representing Australia once again.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Ashleigh dreams of becoming Miss Universe and an early childhood educator. Her passion for advocacy, combined with her diverse talents, positions her as a role model for young people everywhere.

Ashleigh Hammond exemplifies how dedication, passion, and a commitment to making a difference can lead to remarkable achievements. As she continues to champion autism awareness and excel in her pursuits, she inspires others to strive for their dreams and make a positive impact on the world.