Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhna
“I honestly let go of modelling when I moved to the UK and started a job in hospitality. Finding the time to go for an audition or casting while working full time is not even a thought - London is a completely different tempo than Sri Lanka.”
However, Ornella who has overcome many hurdles before, including overcoming a debilitating disability, took up the challenge. She explains that she did all her research and put herself out there. “I hunted for opportunities like a tigress. It takes a lot for me to get out of my comfort zone.
I constantly checked online for opportunities and castings and applied for several different shows in the hope that I would be selected. It absolutely made my day when I managed to get an opportunity. I did not even know the show I modelled for was on the itinerary of The British Fashion Council for LFW until AFTER the show”.
Ornella was selected to model four outfits for four different designers at the show. “I wore outfits from “M Arts Club” (Saint Tropez, France,) Eve Couture Atelier (London,) Lisajack Fashion (California, USA) and was lucky to be chosen to close with the finale piece for a handmade natural, woven wear brand “Lookscustomed,” (Miami, FL, USA). This was particularly close to my heart and I told the designer that I appreciate that her brand is keen on sustainable wear.
I was so touched when she ended up gifting the outfit to keep which is most memorable. Most of these designers had also showcased at either NYFW or MFW and then flown over for LFW.”
