This past weekend, hundreds of Canadian models and talent attended CMTC to meet international agents and showcase their skills. Shana Gray, represented by Mode Elle (personal manager, mother agent) was among them.
During the weekend, Shana attended seminars and workshops presented by agents from markets as diverse as Paris, London and Milan, and presented her monologue on stage to pick up some useful acting tips from an LA casting director.
Shana participated in ten showcase competitions including photography go-see, runway, swimsuit, cover photo, commercial print, tv commercial, cold reading, improv, monologue and singing.
Although it is impossible to attend everything at CMTC, there are seminars presented from every corner of the planet, including modelling from New York to Europe to Asia to Africa, and practical workshops covering topics from acting skills to nutrition (presented by an international model).
In the evenings, models and talent let down their hair for some theme parties, and on the final night, an awards banquet is presented for the year’s top picks from the competitions.
The final morning concludes with callback interviews. After CMTC, international agents are able to follow up on interest in models and talent for their own specific markets. (Agents may be as diverse as model agents from every international city, acting agents from New York and LA, and music companies.)
CMTC is a very exciting experience, an opportunity to showcase Canadian talent to top agents in worldwide markets.
“It is impossible to predict careers, a lot of it depends on timing, and you never know what may come of it,” Shana explains. “Last year I spoke with New York and LA acting companies, and there was follow-up from New York, but my LA contact unfortunately passed away with cancer. She was very sweet. This year I spoke with a record label. There always appears to be interest from model agents, but these things are very unpredictable. You never know who noticed you, and there is a great deal of competition. You hope that people will connect with you if they need you at some point in the future. You keep working on your skills and portfolio, and you keep showing up whenever you can.”
In addition to knowledge gained and connections made, friendships are created and built, among models and talent, and across the industry. “Networking is really important. It’s a phenomenal industry with a lot of great people. They hold to the highest artistic standards as top companies and are very genuine people. I find it impossible to talk to everyone there because the schedule is so completely packed. But I hope these people can find me when they need me.”
Shana can be booked directly in the Toronto area market, and is represented internationally, via mother agent and personal manager Mode Elle. Agents can connect with Mode Elle to request Shana for their markets.
“Everyone is unique, and careers are as unique as each person,” Shana explains. “Ultimately, it’s all about enjoying the journey, the experience, and making the most of every opportunity.”
Shana on Casting Workbook
Shana’s Model Portfolio
Mode Elle (Personal Manager & Mother Agent)
Headshot & Resume (below), Comp Cards (check back soon)
CIQstories Official News
Why the name change? “At this point I felt I needed a more international name that fits in all my circles, from Toronto to worldwide, and music to fashion. CIQ was a cool underground music name, but I felt that it was limiting when it came to international appeal, and my current career direction. Parfaiti is far more international and represents all sides of who I am.” From her French heritage and Canada’s bilingual audience, to her roots in Toronto Italian music dj culture, worldwide connections in music, arts and fashion, travel influences, and even her background in classical piano and violin, Parfaiti seemed to be a good choice.
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