Second chance, first walk – Denesea Freeman turns setback into ORIGINS success

Each step onto the modelling stage carries a quiet anticipation as each footfall draws closer to an expectant audience whose eyes are fixed on the runway, waiting to witness fashion brought to life in its highest form.
This year, 20-year-old Denesea Freeman had the opportunity to experience this for the first time at the ORIGINS fashion show in Guyana on Friday night over the weekend.
This year’s ORIGINS show opened on Friday at the Railway Courtyard, ushering in three nights of fashion, creativity, culture and culinary experiences, as some of the country’s leading designers showcased their latest collections.
The festival is one of several initiatives spearheaded by the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry to advance Guyana’s Orange Economy in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry, with a focus on strengthening the country’s creative industries and promoting local talent.
Thirty designers are participating in this year’s festival, with 10 designers showcasing each night.

This publication caught up with Freeman, who related that she got into modelling because she has always enjoyed expressing herself through her appearance and the way she carries herself.

Silent storytelling
However, as the hands of the clock moved over the years, lessons came along the way for her, and she realised that modelling is not about the clothes being worn but also about confidence, presence and the ability to tell a story without words. She said that walking the stage and presenting outfits is, in essence, a form of silent storytelling.
“The people who are viewing have to feel your energy and your story, and you are not saying a word. So I just wanted to explore that seriously, and that is what prompted me to get into modelling,” she said.
The model, who began her journey in pageantry, explained that there is a very thin line between the two and that one often evolves into the other in some form. She added that this also played a role in her interest, as she has always enjoyed putting herself together from a young age.
“I cared about how I looked and how I felt in my clothes, and that carried into how I model today because I am already comfortable with expressing myself visually and being aware of my posture and my presence.”

Second chance
In fact, this opportunity did not come easily, as she faced trials and error along the way.
“I applied the first time, which was last year, and I didn’t get through. I was quite disappointed as well. I felt like, you know what, I’m probably not good enough to model at ORIGINS. Someone encouraged me to try again this year, and I went to the casting. I tried, and I got in. So, I became part of ORIGINS after getting into modelling and looking for opportunities to gain experience. I saw it as a really good opportunity, a space to learn, grow and actually be around designers and creatives who put in a lot of real work. What really caught my attention was how it brings together different designers and creatives into one singular space,” she said.
She said the experience made her feel that modelling is less of a performance and more of a platform for growth and self-expression, where individuals can develop while also being seen and appreciated. She added that, as humans, learning is a continuous process.
She encouraged young people interested in modelling, both girls and boys, not to wait for the “perfect” opportunity, explaining that such a moment may never come. Instead, she urged them to build themselves from wherever they are in life.
She emphasised that confidence, discipline, and how one carries oneself are just as important as walking a runway. According to her, consistency plays a key role in growth, and with time, opportunities will increase.
She also addressed aspiring male models, noting that there are fewer men in the industry, possibly due to stigma, but encouraged them to remain consistent, be true to themselves, and understand that the sky is the limit.
She also gave tips and insights on how young boys and girls can develop their modelling skills from a young age.
“They can start very simply: practise posture, learn how to walk confidently, and get comfortable in front of a mirror or camera. I would encourage them to stand in front of a mirror and speak good things about themselves. Look at your reflection and only speak positively. Maintain good posture, act like everywhere is the runway – because everywhere can be the runway. Whether you are walking to the shop or anywhere, walk as if you are on a runway… Turn everything into a runway. It also helps to watch professionals and stay consistent with how you present yourself daily,” she said.
Regarding her wardrobe for the event, she said she is wearing pieces from several designers, including Hashim Ali (Nachele Designs), Roger Gary, Dexter Gardener (Falcon Designs), Delayna Scott, Mwanza Glenn and Wanza Designs. She added that each design reflects the individual creativity of the designers and described it as an honour to wear their work.
When asked where she sees herself over the next five years, Freeman said people can expect to see continued growth, constant improvement, greater opportunities and a stronger presence in the modelling industry, as she also pursues further studies while remaining grounded in her values and true to who she is.