Youngster takes on Hokonui Fashion Awards for a second time

23rd July 2013

Youngster takes on Hokonui Fashion Awards for a second time

An eight year old Nelson boy who lives with autism, and who won a top award at the 2012 Hokonui Fashion Awards, has again taken on the challenge to see his garment on the runway.

Torenzo Monopoli, who is supported by Project KPH, entered the secondary school avant garde division at the 2012 July awards with a stunning pink and purple, floor length creation. Torenzo’s entry was one of many in his category, all entered by secondary school students many years older than himself.

Project KPH is a youth focused charity and supports young people living with terminal illness, disease, disability and/or other special conditions to realise their talents and dreams through unique projects that fit their passion and interests.

“Project KPH aims to provide a safe, positive, and encouraging environment to nurture and develop natural abilities, and interests. We give kids the opportunity to take on unique projects that help them build a bank of sustainable skills and resources.

“Torenzo’s achievement at last year’s awards was immense and he has earned a lot of well-deserved respect.” says charity founder, Leah Evans.

Young Torenzo entered the Secondary School division at last year’s awards, and was the youngest competitor by far. Despite this he stepped up and made the most of the resources he has been exposed to, and created an award winning garment.

This year the eight year old has again designed the piece entirely on his own and with the support of his sponsors, parents, and a voluntary Nelson based assistant – Liz McLean – Torenzo has spent an intensive three months executing the garment to meet the mid June entry deadline.

“I feel privileged to be involved, Torenzo has so much to offer.” says Liz.

Last year, in front of a crowd of 700 people, Torenzo’s dream of seeing his garment on the runway at a big show became reality. Winning the Avant Garde Award for the Secondary School Division was the icing on the cake.

“He won $500 for his efforts, but far more importantly, came away with plenty of pride and a whole lot of credibility. We were all blown away, just ecstatic. There were a lot of tears and squeals of sheer excitement. The look on Torenzo’s face was utterly priceless

“The judging for the event was all done ‘blind’ with coding, so the judges don’t know who each piece belongs to or any details about the designer. They had no idea how young he was or his circumstances when they picked his garment as the winner, and obviously that process will be the same this year.

“It was a significant achievement. The 300 plus entries were whittled down to just the 200 that hit the runway.

“And now as part of his on-going project with KPH he’s stepped up again, with another entry for 2013. It’s very exciting, we can’t wait for this Saturday night.” says Leah.

Project KPH is completely funded through sponsorship and donations, with all funding spent on projects for deserving kids. The administration and support are all provided on a voluntary basis.

“Project KPH has a long term positive impact on these children and their families. It’s a truly unique learning experience, and creates real meaning for them.

“It’s a simple format with genuine Kiwi heart, it just seems to really work” says Leah.

For further information about Project KPH, check out www.projectkph.com

ENDS

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