Category: Spotlight

GEM Modelling & Glamour Academy Set to Launch Exclusive Weekend Bootcamp in 2024

Posted on by Sue Turner

GEM Modelling & Glamour Academy, a pioneering institute in the world of beauty and modelling, is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated weekend bootcamp in 2024. This intensive 2-day program aims to provide aspiring talents with comprehensive training, mentorship, and industry insights to help them shine in their respective fields.

Highlights of the Bootcamp:

Industry Royalty as Mentors

The GEM Academy bootcamp distinguishes itself by offering participants the unique opportunity to receive guidance from top industry professionals. Renowned names in the business will provide invaluable insights and mentorship to shape the next generation of talent.

Total Transformation

Participants can expect a total transformation during the bootcamp, designed to equip them with the essential skills, attitude, and a stunning look. GEM Academy focuses on meeting the exacting standards of the contemporary glamour industry, ensuring participants emerge as the best version of themselves.

Comprehensive Training

From flawless preparation for beauty pageants to mastering the art of modelling, the bootcamp covers a wide range of topics essential for success in the competitive world of glamour. Knowledge, grooming, and training are at the forefront of the academy’s curriculum.

Exclusive Networking Opportunities

One of the unique aspects of GEM Academy is the chance to network with the industry’s biggest names. This networking opportunity positions participants for a successful entry into the glamour industry.

“The glamour industry demands not just talent but a unique set of skills, knowledge, and grooming. At GEM Academy, we are committed to providing aspiring individuals with the tools they need to make a lasting impact in the world of modelling and beauty pageants. Our weekend bootcamp is designed to be transformative, equipping participants with the confidence and skills to shine in their chosen paths,” said Sue Turner, CEO at GEM Modelling & Glamour Academy.

Key Features of the GEM Academy BootCamp:

  1. Posing Mastery for Photoshoots: Participants will learn the art of posing and facing the camera for a photoshoot, ensuring they capture the perfect angles and expressions to excel in the world of modelling.
  2. Real-Life Rehearsals and Fashion Shows: The BootCamp provides hands-on experience with real-life rehearsals and fashion shows, preparing participants for the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the industry.
  3. Industry Knowledge: Participants gain valuable insights into the modelling and glamour industry, understanding its nuances and staying abreast of the latest trends.
  4. National and International Pageant Training: The BootCamp equips aspiring beauty pageant queens with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in national and international pageants.
  5. Photoshoot Training and Tips: From understanding the dynamics of a photoshoot to receiving tips on how to shine in front of the camera, participants will enhance their photoshoot skills.
  6. Fitness and Nutrition Guidance: The BootCamp provides knowledge on fitness and nutrition tailored for models, ensuring a holistic approach to well-being.
  7. Casting Tips and Tricks: Participants will learn valuable casting tips and tricks, increasing their chances of impressing casting directors and securing coveted opportunities.
  8. Personal Styling: The importance of personal style in the modelling world is emphasized, guiding participants on how to curate a distinctive and marketable image.
  9. Industry Insights and Model Etiquette: Understanding the nuances of the industry and mastering essential model etiquette for success in various professional settings.
  10. Career Growth Strategies: Participants will gain insights into creating, building, nurturing, marketing, and growing themselves as successful professionals in the industry.
  11. Makeup Application Techniques: Instruction on the proper application of makeup to achieve a polished and camera-ready look.

Among the standout features of the GEM Academy weekend bootcamp are:

  1. Complimentary Breakfast and Lunch: Participants can indulge in a free breakfast and lunch provided on both days of the bootcamp. GEM Academy recognizes the importance of fueling creativity, ensuring that attendees are energised and ready to make the most of their learning experience.
  2. Portfolio Shots by a Celebrity Photographer: Aspiring models and individuals looking to build their portfolios will have the chance to shine in front of the lens of a renowned celebrity photographer. This exclusive opportunity ensures that participants leave the bootcamp with professional and stunning portfolio shots, a valuable asset in the competitive world of fashion and modelling.
  3. Live Catwalk in a Fashion Event: GEM Academy is taking experiential learning to the next level by organizing a live catwalk in a glamorous fashion event. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their newfound skills and confidence on the runway, gaining real-world experience that sets them apart in the fashion industry.
  4. Group Cover Shoot for GEQ Magazine: A highlight of the weekend bootcamp is the chance to be featured on the cover of the next issue of GEQ Magazine. Participants will come together for a group cover shoot, providing a unique collaborative experience and exposure that extends beyond the bootcamp itself.

Get acquainted with the instructors set to guide you at GEM Academy:

Sue Turner

Susan Turner, alternatively known as Sue Turner, currently holds the position of CEO at Global Elite Media Group, GEM Productions, and GEM Academy. Based in Sydney, Australia, she is not only a respected businesswoman but also an accomplished beauty queen and dedicated humanitarian. Susan plays a crucial global mentorship role within the pageant industry, influencing beauty queens worldwide as a prominent public figure.

Her impressive list of beauty queen accolades includes renowned titles such as Mrs. Earth Air Australia 2017, Mrs. Global World International 2018, Humanitarian International 2018, Woman of the World 2018, AGSA’s International Beauty Queen of the Year 2019, and Mrs. Universe Australia 2021. Susan Turner’s contributions extend beyond the realms of business and beauty, encompassing significant humanitarian efforts, making her a prominent figure on the global stage.

With an impressive career spanning over 50 years in this industry, Susan Turner began her journey at the young age of 7. Her dedication and impact were recognized last year with the Un Amnesty Award and the International Humanitarian 2023 Award in Dubai, solidifying her legacy in the field.

Pedro Virgil

Pedro Virgil is renowned as a celebrity photographer and personality on reality TV shows. Notably, he served as a judge and photographer on the reality series Caribbean’s Next Top Model, and contributed as a Guest Photographer on Australia’s Next Top Model and Project Runway Australia seasons 1 & 2. His photography has graced numerous magazine covers and editorials, including features in prestigious publications like Inside Sport, Men’s Health, GQ, Sports Illustrated, DNA Magazine, and FHM, among others.

Pedro’s artistic work extends to major billboards showcasing high-profile brands such as Rolex, Sony, Adidas, Sony Ericsson, and Van Heusen. He has also made his mark in underwear campaigns, including notable brands like Calvin Klein. Pedro’s photographic expertise has been featured on hit television shows such as Australia’s Next Top Model, Project Runway seasons I & II, Football Superstar, Caribbean’s Next Top Model, and Australian Idol.

Kate Heussler

Kate has crafted a diverse career as both a businesswoman and a model. In 2021, she established ‘The Model Masterclass,’ a coaching business aimed at guiding aspiring models to become savvy trailblazers in the industry, equipped with the essential skills for a successful modeling career. Kate has also served as a VIP Judge for numerous Miss Teen, Miss, Ms, Mrs, and LGBTQ pageants.

In 2014, Kate made history by becoming the first Australian to secure a spot in the Top 5 on the Mrs. International world stage in Florida, USA. She not only achieved this milestone but also brought home awards for ‘Best Evening Wear’ and ‘Most Photogenic.’ Over time, Kate’s business acumen and patience proved transformative. Her ‘signature smile’ and unwavering work ethic have led to collaborations and project leads with renowned brands such as BrasNThings, David Jones, Rebel Sport, Ben Sherman, Underwear of Sweden, Zoggs, St Frock, and more.

Among her top clients are BrasNThings, David Jones, Ben Sherman, Rebel Sport, St Frock, and others. Kate has been featured on covers and in lifestyle publications such as Vogue Australia, Girlfriend Magazine, Cosmopolitan Brides, Cosmopolitan Australia, Oxygen Magazine, NZ Woman’s Weekly, WHITE, Modern Wedding, and more.

Joanne Nicolas

Joanne Nicolas, the talented, brilliant, and beautiful international fashion model, has established herself as one of the hardest-working supermodels in the modelling industry. She excels in various types of modelling and she’s highly experienced with several years of runway work under her belt.

Having 17 years of experience in the modelling industry, mostly in New York and Sydney, she was scouted by Victoria’s Secret to the VS casting in 2011 New York, and she has modelled for several high-profile brands, such as Oppo with America’s Next Top Model, Maybelline, Myer, L’Oreal, Vera Wang, Sony, Chanel, Max Mara, Westpac, David Jones, Karl Lagerfeld and many more.

For those looking to embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth, GEM Modelling & Glamour Academy’s weekend bootcamp in 2024 promises to be a game-changer.

Albert Prias

Alberto Prias, commonly known as Albie, is an Interior Designer with a classical background and a contemporary stylist flair. Graduating with Cum Laude Honors in fine arts from the University of Santo Tomas, Albie also earned the prestigious Manuel Quezon Presidential Award for Leadership. Currently serving as a TAFE teacher and Assessor at the Design Center in Enmore, he simultaneously holds the position of Design Consultant at Coco Republic.

Albie’s extensive and impressive resume includes his role as the Managing Director of FLAGCOM & Friends, a prominent and award-winning advocate group for the Gay & Lesbian community. He holds a significant position within the Alliance of Philippine Community Organizations and consistently promotes the Department of Philippine Tourism, the Philippine Consulate, and the Aids Council of Australia.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Albie generously lends his talents to various community and charity organizations. He actively contributes to the creation, planning, and management of fundraising events, supporting these organizations in fulfilling their missions and expanding their community outreach. Albie’s diverse skill set extends to producing, managing, and directing large-scale local and international shows, encompassing plays, talent searches, modeling, beauty pageants, and fashion runway events, including the Rocky Gathercole show in Sydney.

Balancing Act: Maximizing Extra Income While Working Full-Time

Posted on by krissy

In an era where financial goals often extend beyond the confines of a nine-to-five job, many individuals seek additional income streams to supplement their earnings. Whether it’s to achieve financial milestones, build an emergency fund, or pursue personal passions, the prospect of earning extra income while working full-time is more accessible than ever. This article explores practical strategies for successfully juggling a full-time job while creating additional revenue streams.

Identify Your Skills and Passions

Begin by recognizing your skills, talents, and passions outside of your full-time job. Whether it’s freelance writing, graphic design, consulting, or tutoring, leveraging your existing expertise can be a lucrative way to earn extra income. Consider what you enjoy doing and where your strengths lie to maximize both financial and personal fulfillment.

Freelancing and Side Gigs

There are several opportunities in the gig economy for those seeking extra income. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit connect freelancers with clients seeking specific services. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, web development, or odd jobs, freelancing allows you to capitalize on your skills during your free time.

Online Courses and Consulting

If you possess specialized knowledge in a particular field, consider creating online courses or offering consulting services. Platforms like Udemy and Teachable enable you to share your expertise with a global audience. Similarly, offering consulting services in your field of expertise can provide an additional income stream.

Investing

Put your money to work for you by exploring different investment opportunities. Whether it’s stocks, bonds, real estate, or peer-to-peer lending, investing can generate passive income over time. Be sure to conduct thorough research and ensure that your investing choices are in line with your financial objectives, speak with a financial counsellor. 

Rental Income

If you have extra space in your home or property, consider renting it out. Platforms like Airbnb have made it easier for individuals to earn extra income by hosting guests. This can be a flexible way to supplement your earnings without committing to a second job.

Passive Income Streams

Explore passive income options that require minimal ongoing effort. This could include creating and selling digital products, affiliate marketing, or generating revenue through a blog or YouTube channel. While these avenues may take time to build, they can eventually become reliable sources of income with less active involvement.

Time Management and Prioritization

Successfully managing a full-time job alongside additional income streams requires effective time management and prioritization. Create a realistic schedule that allocates dedicated time to your full-time job, side projects, and personal life. Setting clear priorities and boundaries will help prevent burnout and ensure a balanced lifestyle.

Financial Planning

As you embark on the journey of earning extra income, it’s essential to have a clear financial plan. Establish goals for your extra income, such as debt repayment, savings, or investment targets. Evaluate your progress on a regular basis and change your tactics as necessary.

Balancing a full-time job with the pursuit of extra income is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, but with strategic planning and dedication, it can be a rewarding one. You can create a varied income portfolio by determining your abilities, looking into freelance possibilities, making smart investments, and using your time well.

Global Elite Media Group Joins StarCentral Media Magazine’s Grand Year-End Celebration!

Posted on by krissy

Global Elite Media Group (GEM) is thrilled to announce its participation in the highly anticipated year-end celebration hosted by StarCentral Media Group at the esteemed Sir Stamford Circular Quay on December 17th, commencing at 11 a.m.

This extraordinary event is set to be a grand affair, with GEM Models captivating the audience as they grace the runway with elegance and sophistication. Guests will have the exclusive opportunity to witness an incredible display of fashion artistry as GEM Models showcase their exceptional talent and style during the Kings and Queens Fashion Exhibition.

The CEO of Global Elite Media Group, Sue Turner, will present at the event and offer special awards to esteemed individuals, recognizing their outstanding contributions throughout the year. This prestigious acknowledgment will honor the hard work and dedication of exceptional individuals who have excelled in their respective fields.

For further details or to secure tickets for this spectacular event, please get in touch with Sue Turner directly for reservations or additional information.

This year-end celebration promises to be an exquisite gathering filled with glamour, exceptional fashion, and accolades, marking a perfect end to the year.

For media inquiries, event sponsorship, or interviews, kindly contact Sue Turner at 0402 281 721.

Get ready to celebrate in style as GEM Models and StarCentral Media Group take center stage at this exclusive year-end extravaganza!

1MX Music Festival 2023: An Unforgettable Night of Asian-Australian Musical Brilliance Is Coming To Sydney!

Posted on by Sue Turner

Get ready for a musical extravaganza like no other! The 1MX Sydney Music Festival is gearing up to make history as the first-ever festival featuring Asian-Australian-Kiwi artists under one roof. Scheduled for October 8th at the iconic Hordern Pavilion in Sydney, this event promises to be a night to remember.

Check out the lineup of local and international artists who will be performing at the 1MX Sydney Music Festival:

Dami Im: The Vocal Dynamo

Leading the lineup is the sensational Dami Im, renowned for her incredible voice and trend-setting music. Dami’s musical journey began when she triumphed in the fifth season of The X Factor Australia. Since then, she’s been on a meteoric rise, with her debut and winner’s single, “Alive,” hitting number one on the ARIA Singles Chart. Her self-titled second studio album achieved platinum status, and her latest EP, “In Between,” has been making waves, currently residing in the Top 10 Australian albums on the ARIA charts. Prepare to be mesmerized by her captivating performance!

William Singe: The Music Scene Maverick

A true luminary in Australia’s music scene, William Singe is set to mesmerize the audience with his extraordinary talent. William’s musical journey began as a member of The Collective, an Australian boy band formed during the fourth season of The X Factor Australia. His solo career skyrocketed, recording numerous R&B, pop, reggae, hip-hop, and rap covers, amassing over two million Facebook fans, topping Spotify charts, and earning millions of video views on YouTube.

KZ Tandingan: Asia’s Soul Supreme

Prepare to be blown away by the remarkable KZ Tandingan, known as “Asia’s Soul Supreme.” After winning the first season of The X Factor Philippines in 2012, KZ’s career skyrocketed. She’s been honoured with numerous awards, including 7 Awit Awards, 3 Wish 107.5 Music Awards, and 2 Myx Music Awards. KZ achieved international fame through China’s reality TV singing competition, Singer 2018, and made history with a sold-out solo concert at the Dubai World Trade Center Arena.

Ben&Ben: Folk-Pop Sensations

Ben&Ben, the beloved folk-pop band from the Philippines, is set to serenade the audience with their chart-topping hits, including “Kathang Isip,” “Maybe The Night,” “Leaves,” and more. They’ve been named Spotify’s Most Streamed Artist in the Philippines and have scooped up multiple awards, including Awit Awards, Myx Awards, Wish 107.5 Music Awards, and an NME Award for Best Asian Band.

Keenan Te: The Pop Sensation

Pop sensation Keenan Te has taken the music industry by storm, boasting over 5 billion views on TikTok and over 100 million streams in the past year. His powerful voice has caught the attention of top musicians and personalities, solidifying his place in the music world.

Milky Day: The Lofi and R&B Maestro

Milky Day, the rising Korean-New Zealander artist, brings a blend of Lofi and R&B to the stage. Milky Day embodies a contrast that resonates with the new generation with a background in classical piano, a math degree from Amherst College, and a passion for producing. His tracks, including “You’ll Be Alright,” “Take It Slow,” “Fool,” and “Youuu,” have amassed millions of streams, establishing him in the global R&B scene.

Maymay Entrata: The Multifaceted Star

Maymay Entrata is a Filipino actress, singer, television host, dancer, and model who catapulted to fame after winning Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7. Her debut album, launched at the SM North EDSA SkyDome, sold thousands of copies and earned gold and platinum certifications from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI).

Bini: The P-Pop Powerhouse

Bini, a P-Pop Girl Group formed through Star Hunt Academy (SHA), has taken the music world by storm. In just one year, they released their debut album, “Born to Win,” showcasing hits like the title track “Born To Win” and “Na Na Na.” They wowed audiences with their performances in the sibling group concert streamed worldwide alongside BGYO called “One Dream: The BINI & BGYO Concert.” In 2021, BINI was named the MTV Asia Spotlight Artist for October and November and won Best Female Group at the Saludo Excellence Awards.

Don’t Miss Out on the 1MX Sydney Music Festival!

This music festival promises remarkable performances, powerful songs, and brilliant artists, all converging for a day of pure musical magic. Whether you’re a devoted fan of these incredible talents or simply curious to explore the genre and culture, the 1MX Sydney Music Festival offers an entire day of entertainment that transcends boundaries.

Interested in coming to this epic event? You can experience 8 FULL concerts from noon til sundown in easier payments and interest-free!

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by – get your tickets now and slay with your favourite artists via this link:  1MX Music Festival

“Streets of Colour” Movie Review: A Captivating Tale of Friendship, Hope, and Overcoming Adversity

Posted on by Sue Turner

“Streets of Colour” is a captivating film that leaves a lasting impact, resonating deeply within the hearts of its viewers. It tells the ultimate story of friendship, hope, and life’s triumph over adversity, moving audiences with each viewing.

In times of despair, “Streets of Colour” becomes a beacon of hope, uplifting spirits in ways that contemporary movies rarely achieve. It touches the soul, evoking a sense of spiritual awakening for many. The film affirms the enduring power of friendships that endure even the direst circumstances, often bringing grown women like myself to tears.  

Some may initially question how a movie titled “Streets of Colour,” centered around a 25-year-old drug dealer battling addiction, manages to strike a chord with such a broad audience. Yet, every aspect of the film seamlessly comes together. The acting is impeccable, from the lead roles to the most minor parts. The musical score, editing, photography, and storytelling were executed quite well, from the opening credits to the final scene. Even the portrayal of Mt Druitt adds authenticity to the film.  

This movie is far from ordinary; it carries a profound message. Its foundation rests upon hope, which serves as the guiding force throughout the narrative. While underlying religious subtexts emphasize themes of faith and hope, the movie speaks to anyone searching for a glimmer of optimism. It delivers a compelling and deeply moving story, expertly written, acted, and shot. It is a cinematic gem that sets the bar high.

One cannot overlook the phenomenal performances in “Streets of Colour.” Rahel Romahn delivers an epic portrayal, evoking darkness, sorrow, and an overwhelming passion that leaves a lasting impression. Romahn portrays Tez, the film’s protagonist, whose life spirals downward following the racially charged street fight that tragically claims his friend’s life. Alongside him, Kyle Madden, played by an equally impressive actor, experiences his own tumultuous journey.

Ronnie S. Riskalla’s direction ensures a steady pace throughout the film, perfectly complementing the compelling writing and exquisite cinematography. Riskalla presents the life of a drug addict in a harrowing manner, focusing not only on physical pain but also the immense mental strain and torment experienced by addicts.

For those who have yet to experience its power, “Streets of Colour” demands immediate attention. It is a film that offers more than meets the eye. This film sets a new standard with its profound message and exceptional performances. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Yolandi Franken, the executive producer of Streets of Colour, for graciously inviting us to witness this extraordinary cinematic experience.

You can experience Streets of Colour at multiple locations nationwide. The screening sessions are listed below:

SYDNEY

Casula Powerhouse | Saturday, July 22, 2023

Actors Centre, Leichhardt | Monday, July 31, 2023

Parramatta Riverside | Thursday, August 24, Friday, August 25, and Saturday, September 2, 2023

LAUNCESTON

Village Cinemas | Sunday, August 6, 2023

PERTH

The Backlot | Sunday, August 13, 2023

BRISBANE

New Farm Cinemas | Wednesday, August 16, 2023

5 Strategies To Make Inflation An Accessory To Success

Posted on by krissy

Inflation can cause concern for many people, often leading to rising prices, lower purchasing power, and economic instability. However, some strategies can be employed to make inflation work in your favor and turn it into an accessory to success.

Invest in assets

One such strategy is investing in assets that appreciate with inflation. This can include real estate, commodities, and stocks of companies that have pricing power. Real estate, for instance, tends to appreciate with inflation, as the value of the property increases in tandem with rising prices. Commodities such as gold, oil, and other natural resources can also appreciate with inflation, as their values are tied to supply and demand dynamics. Investing in stocks of companies with pricing power can also be a way to benefit from inflation, as they can raise prices to match rising costs without hurting demand for their products or services.

Increase your own earnings potential

Another strategy is taking advantage of inflation to increase your earnings potential. Inflation often leads to higher wages and salaries as businesses try to keep up with rising costs. This can be an opportunity to negotiate for higher pay or seek better-paying job opportunities. Additionally, starting a business can be a way to take advantage of inflation, as rising prices can lead to increased demand for certain goods and services.

Consider inflation when making financial decisions

When making financial choices, take inflation into account, such as taking out loans or saving for retirement. Inflation can lessen the value of your savings over time, so it is vital to invest in assets that can keep up with or outpace inflation. For example, investing in stocks or bonds can provide a higher rate of return than a savings account, which typically offers lower interest rates that may not keep up with inflation.

Use inflation when negotiating loans

Another strategy is to use inflation to your advantage when negotiating loans. Inflation can decrease the actual value of debt over time, making it easier to pay off in the future. This can be a helpful tactic when negotiating loan terms, as lenders may be more willing to offer favorable terms in a higher inflation environment.

Learn to adjust your financial strategy

Lastly, it is essential to keep an eye on inflation and adjust your financial strategy accordingly. Inflation rates can fluctuate over time, so it is essential to monitor changes and adjust your investment and spending strategies accordingly. This can include diversifying your portfolio, taking advantage of tax-advantaged retirement accounts, and seeking professional financial advice.

In conclusion, while inflation can be a cause for concern, some strategies can be employed to make it work in your favor and turn it into an accessory to success. Investing in assets that appreciate with inflation, taking advantage of increased earnings potential, considering inflation in financial decisions, negotiating loans, and adjusting financial strategies over time can all be effective ways to benefit from inflation and achieve financial success.

10 Tips to Create Highly Engaging Content In Social Media

Posted on by krissy

Creating engaging content for social media is essential for building a loyal following and growing your brand online. Below are some tips on how to create engaging content for social media:

Know your audience

The first step in creating engaging content for social media is to know your audience. Who are they, what are their interests, and what kind of content do they respond to? You can produce content that connects with your audience once you grasp them well.

Use visuals

Visuals are an essential part of social media content. Use high-quality images, graphics, and videos to capture your audience’s attention and make your content more visually appealing.

Tell a story

People love stories, so incorporate storytelling into your social media content. This can be a personal story about your brand or a story that connects with your audience’s interests and experiences.

Be authentic

Authenticity is critical to creating engaging social media content. Be true to your brand and values, and don’t be afraid to show your personality and quirks. Your audience will value your genuineness and sincerity.

Use humour

A fantastic technique to engage your audience and make them smile is through humour. Incorporate humour into your social media content, but ensure it aligns with your brand and is appropriate for your audience.

Ask questions

Asking questions is a great way to encourage engagement on social media. Ask your audience for their opinions, thoughts, and experiences, and respond to their comments to keep the conversation going.

Use hashtags

Incorporating hashtags in your social media strategy is an effective strategy for expanding the reach of your social media content. Use relevant hashtags that align with your content and your audience’s interests to reach new followers and expand your brand’s reach.

Post consistently

To develop a devoted audience, you must be consistent on social media. Post regularly and consistently, but ensure you’re not sacrificing quality for quantity.

Use call-to-actions

Include a call-to-action in your social media content to encourage your audience to take action, such as liking, commenting, or sharing your post. This can increase engagement and help your content reach a wider audience.

Measure your results

Finally, it’s critical to evaluate the outcomes of your social media content. Analyze your engagement, reach, and other metrics to see what’s working and what’s not, and adjust your content strategy accordingly.

Creating engaging content for social media takes time, effort, and creativity. By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll be able to produce content that connects with your audience and strengthens your brand, thereby helping you achieve your social media goals.

Event-documentary Portrait of the Queen, to hit select cinemas for a limited time on March 18.

Posted on by krissy

Portrait of the Queen, an event-documentary that looks at the moving, enthralling and controversial 70-year reign of late Queen Elizabeth II through the eyes of the world’s best photographers, will release to select Australian cinemas for a limited time on March 18.

The film, an original and intimate portrait that goes far beyond the dictates of standard conventional biographies, interweaves the story of the Queen’s life with the equally fascinating lives of the extraordinary photographers who accompanied – and often created – the image of British monarchy itself. Those who, through their work, established, conveyed, and spread the image of Her Majesty.

A special, careful look of the thousands upon thousands of images that have portrayed her, means that we can perhaps find a new way to approach a Queen we feel we have always known, but who has always seemed equally out-of-reach. Each portrait presented in this film, each conversation with the photographers involved in the project, all the accounts of experiences shared by actresses, designers, and British subjects, fit carefully and intricately into the screenplay like pieces of a mosaic that capture some of the multifaceted aspects of the Queen’s image, all different but connected, all equally powerful and significant.

Directed by award-winning photographer Fabrizio Ferri, Portrait of the Queen is based on the book, Elisabetta II: Ritratto di Regina by Paola Calvett. The documentary features legendary British actor Charles Dance (The Crown, Game of Thrones), with contributions from Emma Blau, Pierpaolo Piccioli, Isabella Rossellini, Susan Sarandon and the Queen’s photographers Brian Aris, Jason Bell, Julian Calder, Chris Levine, David Montgomery, John Swannell.

The Impact Of Social Media In Today’s Society: How Connected Is Too Connected?

Posted on by krissy

I was walking to work when I saw this businesswoman walking towards me. She was impeccably dressed in a knee-length pencil skirt paired with a lovely, flowy, short-sleeve blouse for the early summer weather. She took confident strides in her envy-inducing mid-heel pumps, and slung over one forearm was the successful, modern woman’s perfect accessory, the drool-worthy leather tote. But, in a practice that I see more often than not, her head was buried in the cell phone she held in her hands. Whatever was on the screen had her rapt attention that she didn’t notice the streetlamp in her path. That is until she ran right into it.

While that experience had me trying to hide my laughter, I had another encounter on the other end of the spectrum. I found myself having to grab a teenager’s backpack to stop him from walking right into the middle of a busy intersection! He was too busy staring at his phone to realise the danger that he was in. From the look of horror on his face, it was clear that he was completely oblivious until he felt me yank on his bag.

So how connected is too connected? Is the text, tweet, post, or whatever that held their attention worth her embarrassment, in the case of the businesswoman, or his life, in the case of the teenager? Our easy answer is no. But then, how many times have we been guilty of this ourselves? Let me give you this answer. Too many. So many that laws had to be created to make it illegal to be on your phone while driving. So many that automotive engineers had to design cars that can stop on their own when it detects danger before the driver does – a direct consequence of distracted driving. And how many times have you yourself given the bashful “I’m sorry” when you’ve run into someone because you were looking at your phone?

Don’t get me wrong. I’m actually a firm believer that the internet and social media can be a powerful force for good. More than at any other time in history, we have unprecedented access to information. Information that would have taken hours of research in the past is now available in a few keystrokes. Social media first emerged as a powerful tool of change during a period in the early 2010’s called the ‘Arab Spring’ where demonstrators used it to organize their protests (through the hashtag ‘#ArabSpring) throughout the Arab world, which included Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Syria, Yemen and more. The uprising saw whole governments overthrown, leaders ousted, and constitutional reforms enacted. In the Western world, the internet and social media have given us more exposure to controversial issues such as police brutality, given us more chances to engage in public debate, and allowed us the opportunity to participate in causes and campaigns such as the very popular ‘Ice Bucket Challenge’ a while back that raised over a hundred million dollars for the motor neuron disease, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). And on a more personal level, it has enabled friends and families separated by great distances to now easily keep in touch with each other.

But again, how connected is too connected? Like everything else in life, keeping things in moderation is the key. But having such easy access to the internet makes tuning out a lot more difficult. The rapid growth of the internet and social media also means that the rules of etiquette and guidelines for its use are still catching up, especially for the younger generation. I heard some sage advice about that recently: “If you don’t want your boss, or future boss, to see it or read about it, don’t put it on Facebook.” But what do teenagers think of that when they’re having fun at a party? It is becoming increasingly the norm to ‘share’ whatever it is you’re doing, eating, etc., on social media. But where do you draw the line? Three young women from Philadelphia tragically found out the hard way when the car they were traveling in slammed into a parked tractor-trailer and burst into flames. Because of the fire, bystanders could not come to their aid, and all three were burned to death. Relatives of one of the girls said that they received a Snapchat video showing them going at about 73 mph (117 km/h) minutes before they crashed.

The line has definitely been crossed when there are deaths involved and when there are words like ‘cyberbullying’ are added to the dictionary. But this world of instant information and instant connections is our new reality, so when do you recognize that it’s too much? It’s when your online acquaintances take second place to the people within your life. It’s when you choose to learn about the world via the internet rather than actually going out there and experiencing it. And it’s when you do finally turn off that computer and put down that phone, and you can’t answer this question: “Who am I without it?” That’s when you know you’re too connected.

Spotlight: All The Glitz And Glam Of The ARIA Awards 2022

Posted on by krissy

The red carpet was recently rolled out in Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion as the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Awards held its official ceremony for 2022. The cream of the crop in the Australian music industry attended Australia’s night of nights as the who’s who of the music industry gathered to celebrate the best in Australia.

If you want to see all the glitz and glam at the 2022 ARIA Awards, then scroll down below. Photos courtesy of Dave Choo.