In Chicago, the Ukrainian modeling school StarKids held its traditional charity graduation fashion show, marking the end of the academic year for students aged 6 to 18. The event brought together students, parents, teachers, representatives of the Ukrainian community, and Ukrainian veterans undergoing treatment in the United States.
This was reported by the modeling school StarKids.
Although most of the students will return to classes in the fall, the annual final show has become a good tradition, during which the girls demonstrate the achievements and skills they have gained throughout the year.
During the show, the youngest models presented a collection of children’s dresses by the Layla Land brand, the middle group walked the runway in designer clothing by Vivi Lu Atelier, and the older students showcased looks from the European fashion boutique Mate Vaman.
Each runway appearance was accompanied by commentary from the evening’s hosts — Ivan Sabat and Ukrainian defender Dmytro Tereshchenko.
“Ivan and Dmytro are true professionals in their field — charismatic, sincere, and incredibly talented. Thanks to you, our Charity Graduation Fashion Show was filled with emotion, ease, warmth, and an unforgettable atmosphere,” the organizers noted.
The festive mood was complemented by performances by soloist Liubov Lukashevych, young dancers from UK Dance Studio, singer BARVA — Tetiana Baryliak — and school graduate Anastasiia Strokova, who, accompanied by cymbalist Mykola Stefurak, performed a song about StarKids specially written by Kateryna Hrod.
A special part of the evening was the runway appearance of the students’ mothers, who tried themselves in the role of models for the first time, presenting designer clothing by Vivi Lu Atelier.
“Who said that at almost 35 it is too late to dare to try an adventure? Thanks to our incredible Kateryna Hrod, we received an unexpected surprise — the opportunity to walk the runway in designer clothing. It was exciting, unusual, and very beautiful,” participant Khrystyna Chorna shared her impressions.
“Our incredible StarKids moms bravely stepped onto the stage, embraced the moment, and absolutely stole the show. They looked stunning, walked confidently, and proved that every woman deserves to feel beautiful and festive. One of the most touching moments was watching their children and husbands proudly cheer them on. Seeing the smiles, admiration, and love in their eyes reminded us why these moments matter so much,” Kateryna Hrod added .
During the event, guests also took part in a charity raffle with gifts from partners and sponsors. Special guests of the evening were Ukrainian military veterans undergoing treatment and rehabilitation in the United States with the support of the charitable foundation Revived Soldiers Ukraine.
At the end of the event, Kateryna Hrod presented the students with certificates marking the completion of another training course, congratulating them on their achievements and wishing them new success in the next season.
Background
The StarKids school was founded in 2022 by Kateryna Hrod — a professional model, modeling coach, and holder of the Lady of the World 2021 title. She created a space where girls not only master the art of runway walking but also develop in many other ways. Today, more than fifty students attend the school, divided into three age groups. Classes are held on the premises of St. Joseph the Betrothed Parish. In addition to modeling, the curriculum includes etiquette, the basics of skincare, makeup secrets, style, and a healthy lifestyle. The students also study choreography, acting, and public speaking.
Photo: Taras Baiurak
Author: Inna Mikhno