Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Miss Jamaica World 2007 Yendi Phillipps poses during her Miss World photo shoot with international photographer Marco DiFlorio recently. The historic Devon House, in St. Andrew, Jamaica, was the scene for the shoot. - Contributed

Yendi Phillipps officially launched her 'Fashion Xplosion: A Celebrity Charity Fashion Show' at the National Commercial Bank's (NCB) Wellness Centre on Phoenix Ave, St. Andrew, recently.

Ms. Phillipps is urgently seeking the assistance of the public to fund her charity event, the proceeds from which will be going to the Jamaica Red Cross for the aid of those affected by Hurricane Dean.

Present at the launch was Director of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Ronald Jackson, who elaborated what a worthy cause it was for the residents of Old Harbour and Portland Cottage who were devastated by the hurricane.

The event will be held this Sunday, October 21, at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, and will feature the unveiling of this year Miss Jamaica World's wardrobe. Persons modelling for the night include members of this year's Miss Jamaica World pageant, former winners Terri-Karelle Griffiths and Regina Beavers, as well as Saint International models.

There will also be guest celebrity models from entertainment, sports and politics, which include Courtney Walsh and Usaine Bolt. Brick and Lace and To-Isis are set to perform.

On the fashion scene, designers being featured include: Uzuri International, Xtras, Neah Lish, Posh, Shades of Africa, Barry Moncriefe, Mushroom, Carlton Brown and others.

Beauty with a Purpose

From left: Ronald Jackson of the ODPEM, Miss Jamaica World 2007 Yendi Phillipps and Belinda Williams, public relations and corporate affairs officer of NCB, were all smiles at the launch of 'Fashion Xplosion' at the NCB Wellness Centre recently. - Colin Hamilton Photo

Each year, the Miss World contestants compete in an effort to show that they truly represent 'Beauty with a Purpose', through a charity project. 'Fashion Xplosion', Yendi explained, will be used as her personal project to be submitted under 'Beauty with a Purpose'.

According to NCB representative Belinda Williams, Yendi is "obviously very passionate about bringing forth a change" and she clearly represents a true ambassador. Phillipps departs Jamaica for Sanya, China, on December 1, where she will represent the island in the Miss World Pageant.

Sisters Nailah and Nyanda Thourborne of Brick and Lace will perform at 'Fashion Xplosion: A Celebrity Charity Fashion Show' on Sunday, at the Jamaica Pegasus. - Contributed