Shy Girl to It Girl

The development pros at Nijah / New Faces Development transformed a shy girl into a print and runway model when Frances Ruban sought out help to develop into a full-fledged model. Frances was unsure if she needed professional assistance, but now she realizes it was the best decision her parents ever made. “I didn’t know how to present myself to agents in a professional way. Nijah / New Faces Development gave me the confidence I needed. They helped me take the photos that would open doors for me with agents all over the world,” said Ruban.

After working with Ruban for several months, Nijah / New Faces Development invited her to attend a modeling event in New York City, where she would gain exposure by walking the runway for hundreds of modeling agencies worldwide. “The competition was a great experience,” said Ruban. “It’s overwhelming and intense at the time, but it’s all worth it in the end.” She landed a modeling contract with a top model management agency in New York. Frances is now looking forward to a photo shoot with Seventeen Magazine. “The development got me in the door but personality is also a huge factor in this industry,” said Ruban. “You have to be yourself at a casting because you never know. You might be the next big thing. The next 'it' girl.”

Scouted at a local mall in 2007, Frances worked with Nijah / New Faces Development’s industry professionals, who prepared her in a variety of ways—including how she could develop a personal style she felt comfortable with. “You wouldn’t believe it, but I was the shy girl,” recalled Frances. “I was always in the corner. I couldn’t speak publicly. I never wore a pair of heels in my life. And now I’m a model walking the runway on television.” Frances was most recently seen in Steven Madden’s Fall/Winter 2009 campaign, the New York Post, and walked during “Project Runway” for contestants Jillian Lewis and Alisha Trimble's recent shows.