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Angela Williams is the kind of person whose charm and confidence is manifested in her voice and demeanor as she looks straight into your eyes and tells you her story in a very calm and genteel manner. Originally from Chicago, she resettled her family in St. Paul’s Dayton’s Bluff area 2 1/2 years ago. A single Mom with 2 children, Fred, 8 and Gabrielle, 12, she found her dreams fulfilled as a fashion model locally this past year. Coming to the Twin Cities, was reassuring to her. She found that the environment was clean and the school system was superior to any other she had researched. This gave her the foundation to build a life for herself and her children. Angela's business is Exposure Models Association and Talent Team Network, Incorporated. The address is 281 Maria Avenue (Dayton’s Bluff District 4 Community Council Building - basement facility). Angela combined her talents and expertise in the entertainment industry to form Exposure Incorporated. Previously, before coming to St. Paul, Angela had done some modeling for youth organizations in Chicago and scouting for different agencies. Doing promotional and fashion shows was integral to her self confidence and the pursuit of her profession. Her “little girl dream” became a reality here in Dayton’s Bluff. Helping her to achieve her dream was another person who is familiar to all of us at Dayton’s Bluff. John Vaughn, our community organizer gave her encouragement to start her own business and gave her the use of space in the community building. After completing her business school training and obtaining her modeling license in June of 1998, her career took off. She conducts workshops at various schools and emphasizes hygiene, spiritual growth, and personal management in addition to her modeling technique. She appeals to young people ages 7-21 (both genders) and becomes an advocate for her clients. One prospective model also had talent in the dance arena. Angela now sponsors dance exhibitions which encompasses the talent of some 25 young women and girls. As a role model Angela makes sure the parent or parents of prospective models become involved in their child’s classes. A workshop is held once a week lasting 15 weeks for 14 thru 17 year olds and 18 thru 21 years. A 10 week period is designated for ages 7 thru 13, A reality check for those who are “dreamy-eyed” becomes a motivational tool. Angela confronts them with some up front straight talk to determine their level of self-confidence and evaluates this information to assist her in determining whether this individual would make a good candidate. They fill out a question and answer form and begin to discuss future goals and what obstacles may interfere with these goals. In preparation of their first showing the students must learn runway, posing, body movement, timing and postures (coming in and out). They will show attire in business wear, evening apparel, sports and sleepware. When the students complete their first show they will receive a graduation certificate and a reception in their honor. Burlington Coat Factory has been one of their hosts. Angela is working to encourage professionals to speak at her workshops and graduation ceremonies. Students can earn points as incentives which may involve a speech or an essay on their personal growth during this program both before and during enrollment. Gift baskets may include accessories or jewelry. Such things as being on time and volunteering in the community are important incentives. “I would like to enlarge my studio by investing in a cosmetic contract”
Angela says. She has other ideas on the horizon. Her quiet
professionalism and soft-spoken mannerisms are definite attributes
that I’m sure will help her accomplish this
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