I Can Win This: Stunning Model Nshogoza Jean in the Stage Fashion Showcase 2024 Boot Camp

The Stage Fashion Showcase 2024 model boot camp has entered its second phase, with participants vying for coveted prizes in this highly competitive event. Eighty selected models are undergoing rigorous training with professional coaches, aiming to refine their skills and stand out from the crowd.

The competition follows an elimination format, with models being cut at each stage until the winners emerge. According to the organizers, the top male and female models will each receive a prize of 800,000 Rwandan Francs. Additionally, successful participants will have the opportunity to showcase their talents at the second edition of the Stage Fashion Showcase, scheduled for October 19th at the Kigali Convention Center.

[PHOTO: In the middle is Sandrine Mucyo CEO and founder of the Stage Fashion Showcase with the Model coach Mr. Ganza from the RIGHT During the boot camp]

For the second phase of training and boot camp, the selected models were gathered at the Mundi Center in Kigali, Rwanda's capital city. The organizers emphasize that this intensive program is designed to hone the models' skills, perfect their runway walks, and immerse them in the art of fashion.

"This boot camp is all about pushing boundaries, embracing creativity, discovering the best male and female models, and preparing to set the stage for unforgettable performances in our second edition," the organizers state. 

[PHOTO: From Left- Ms. Sandrine Mucyo CEO and founder of the Stage Fashion Showcase during the boot camp]

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Among the confident participants is Nshogoza Jean, a prominent Rwandan model who believes he has what it takes to win the competition. In an interview with RCFS'SMEDIA, Nshogoza expressed his determination to maintain the legacy he has built in Rwanda's modeling industry.

Nshogoza's career began in 2018, and he is currently managed by RIFI Fashion Agency. His talent and presence have already made significant waves in the fashion world, earning him prestigious accolades such as Rwanda Global Top Model 2023 at the Global Top Models Awards and Best Male Model of the Year 2023 at Karisimbi Events.

"The boot camp is going well, and every model wants to win," Nshogoza says. "Personally, I know I can beat them. I have enough confidence that I can win this competition. I've proven my talent as a model by winning Rwanda Global Top Model 2023, which was also a tough competition. So, I've got this."

[PHOTO: Mr Nshogoza Jean during the Photoshoot by the Matheo clothing brand ]

Nshogoza also expresses his trust in the competition organizers, praising their respect for models' rights. "I've worked in many different events in Dubai and Nigeria with various modeling companies, but the uniqueness of the Stage Fashion Showcase is that they know and respect models' rights. It's like having a mentor, a parent, and an inspirer all in one. I consider it family."

While Nshogoza is optimistic, not all participants share his enthusiasm about the prize money. An anonymous female model argues that the rewards don't match the effort and expenses involved in reaching the final stages. "Models pay more in transport, snacks, and water just to reach the final of every competition we've had here in Rwanda," she explains. "The money that the Stage Fashion Showcase will award the winners is better than nothing, but it's not enough for these professionals." She suggests that with future sponsorships, the organizers should aim to increase the prize value to between 2,500,000 and 5,000,000 Rwandan Francs.

[PHOTO: Models during the Stage Fashion Showcase 2024 boot camp]

Despite the concerns about prize money, Nshogoza believes that participants gain valuable experience from the Stage Fashion Showcase beyond financial rewards. He praises the founder, Sandrine Mucyo, for her understanding of models' needs and her generous approach to the casting call, which attracted over 350 models and provided food and water – a rarity in Rwanda, according to Nshogoza.

[PHOTO: Models during the Stage Fashion Showcase 2024 boot camp]

Nshogoza's trust in the Stage Fashion Showcase stems partly from past disappointments with other companies. "I won other contests and modeling competitions in the past, but some owners failed to pay the promised prizes," he reveals. "I even have a case still pending with the Rwanda Investigation Bureau where one failed to pay 1,000,000 Rwandan Francs."

He commends the Stage Fashion Showcase for its commitment to time management, fair judging, and honesty in agreements with models. Nshogoza participated in the first edition last year at the Marriott Hotel, which he credits with boosting his visibility and connecting him with fashion enthusiasts and media.

Comparing the Stage to other modeling companies in Rwanda, Nshogoza is critical of some practices he's encountered. "Some of them are scammers. They ask for money from models before even doing anything for them. And they have corrupt judging teams," he says. "But the Stage Fashion Showcase never asked anyone for money. Instead, they give money, like transportation allowances, to the models."

[PHOTO: Mr Nshogoza Jean during the Photoshoot by the Matheo clothing brand]

The Stage Fashion Showcase was founded by Sandrine Mucyo, a former model born and raised in Rwanda. With over a decade of experience as a high fashion and commercial model for global clients, Sandrine aims to promote Rwandan models and designers, helping to elevate the country's fashion industry on the international stage. Through her registered business, Ssanduina Ltd, Sandrine seeks to nurture Rwandan talent across various artistic fields, with a particular focus on fashion and related industries.

Nshogoza also praises the quality of training provided at the boot camp, singling out Mr. Ganza as an experienced and understanding coach. "Mr. Ganza has been a top model for many years. He's not just training but also communicating with new models, which is invaluable," Nshogoza explains.

[PHOTO: Mr. Ganza former model and model coach at the Stage Fashion Showcase boot camp]

As he looks to the future, Nshogoza sees the Stage Fashion Showcase as a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal. "My dream is to become an international model, and that's what I'm striving for," he says. "I know that the Stage will play a role in achieving this dream. I pray to God and ask for blessings. I want to become an international model, and I believe my dreams will come true."

[PHOTO: Mr Nshogoza Jean during the Stage Fashion Showcase 2023 at Marriott Hotel]

The Stage Fashion Showcase 2024 continues to unfold, offering a platform for aspiring models like Nshogoza Jean to showcase their talents, gain valuable experience, and potentially launch international careers. As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on these talented individuals as they vie for the top spots and the opportunity to grace the runway at the grand finale on October 19th at the Kigali Convention Center.

[PHOTO: Mr. Nshogoza Jean during the RIFI Fashion Agency photoshoot]

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 THE RCFS'S MEDIA