The Academy

Pākōlea Academy is a space for anyone looking to grow their skills, gain hands-on experience, and build confidence in the creative and modeling industries. Through our Photoshoot Series, Runway Series, and Lesson Series, participants receive professional guidance and real-world opportunities to apply what they learn. Whether you are preparing for agency representation, expanding your portfolio, or simply exploring new creative avenues, the Academy offers the tools, support, and community to help you succeed.

November Events

  • The Photoshoot Series

    This month is dedicated to Networking. Through our “Brand Campaign Master Class” Zoom we will prepare you on how to create campaigns that really connect to your audience. Then come and get the content that represents you to put those lessons to practice at our Brand Content Day on the 23rd!

  • The Runway Series

    This month emphasizes preparation for Fashion Show Castings! Through our Runway Series event “Casting Simulation” on the 19th, we will hold a mock casting to provide a realistic environment, genuine feedback, and of course effective networking while casting. Come get ready for you next casting here!

  • The Lesson Series

    This month is centered on Networking! Through this month’s Lesson Series Presentation “Networking 1 on 1” you can get the full breakdown on Kyani’s guide to networking through your social media, but most importantly face to face. Come learn how to build your brand in a way that creates personal relationships!

  • The Makeup Series

    Learn everything you need to know about model-ready makeup by the one and only @stasiamarie_artistry. From natural casting looks to bold editorial styles, this series teaches you skin prep, kit essentials, and insider techniques so you’re confident and prepared for castings, shoots, shows, and more.

Kyani Bateman and Amanda Saludes, Amanda on a ladder wearing a denim skirt and jacket, black bra, and accessories, with Kyani in a beige crop top and ripped jeans adjusting her hair during an editorial workshop.

The Photoshoot Series

Elevate your portfolio and sharpen your posing skills with our monthly Photo Series. Each session includes themed shoots, live coaching, and opportunities to work with multiple photographers and local brands. You’ll leave with high-quality images, diverse looks, and practical experience that will prepare you for real-world bookings.

  • Models get practical training in posing, expression, and collaboration with photographers. This isn’t just a lecture; it’s guided practice with feedback during the shoot.

  • Each model participates in a professional photoshoot with edited images delivered. This gives them high-quality material for comp cards, portfolios, and social media.

  • Models work alongside multiple photographers and creatives in a styled content day, giving them a wide variety of images, experiences, and professional networking opportunities.

Perks

Sign Up
Kyani Bateman and a student walking indoors, Kyani in red Live Ayat sportswear and high heels, the other in black ripped jeans and a black top during a Pākōlea mock casting call.

The Runway Series

Step confidently into the spotlight with our Runway Series, designed for models who want to master the art of the catwalk. Members gain access to group walking classes, one-on-one coaching, mock runway shows, and priority casting opportunities. Receive video feedback and routine-building support to ensure you’re ready for any runway

Runway Series members receive access to:

  • The All Member events

  • The Runway Series events

  • Kyani’s Guide to Runway Modeling

  • Priority choice when brands come to us looking for runway models (Agency Members Only)

Sign Up
Kyani Bateman sitting cross-legged on a stool, smiling and giving a thumbs-up while teaching a photoshoot workshop holding a can of drink outdoors among lush green plants.

The Lesson Series

Learn it, then live it. Our Lesson Series offers monthly deep dives into essential aspects of the modeling and creative industries—from branding and networking to styling and posing. Each lesson is paired with a hands-on event or shoot so you can immediately apply your new skills, build confidence, and grow your career.

  • Each lesson dives into an essential part of the modeling world, such as branding, professionalism, social media conduct, and industry etiquette. Models learn skills they can directly apply to their careers.

  • Lessons aren’t just theory. Each one ties into an upcoming workshop, shoot, or event where models get to apply what they’ve learned in real scenarios.

    In addition to gaining access to all Lesson Series events, you also get access to the All Member events as well!

  • Models gain access to structured presentations, resources, and guidance that they can revisit anytime. The series is designed to keep models sharp and continuously developing alongside their agency journey.

Perks

Sign Up

The Makeup Series

The Makeup Series is designed to give models the confidence and skills to master their own makeup for every occasion in the industry. From castings and digitals to editorials and runway shows, this series covers all the essentials a model needs to look polished and professional.

You’ll learn how to create natural and no-makeup looks that highlight your features, long-lasting techniques that withstand stage lights and all-day events, and bold editorial styles that elevate your portfolio. We’ll also guide you through skin prep, kit must-haves, and insider techniques straight from industry experts.

Whether you’re new to makeup or looking to refine your skills, this series ensures you’re always prepared and stress-free for castings, shoots, and shows. By the end, you’ll be equipped with professional knowledge, confidence, and a professional edge that sets you apart.

  • Go beyond the basics and develop techniques that elevate your career. From long-lasting, stage-proof applications that withstand bright lights and long hours, to bold editorial looks that capture attention in photoshoots, this series gives you the tools to stand out. You’ll also gain insider tips directly from industry professionals to help you refine your artistry.Description text goes here

  • The Makeup Series helps you feel prepared and confident no matter the occasion. You’ll learn how to create clean, natural looks that shine in castings and digitals, while also gaining the ability to quickly adjust for different shoots and shows. With these skills, you’ll step into every opportunity stress-free and camera-ready.

  • Great makeup starts with great skin. In this series, you’ll learn proper skin prep and care routines to keep your complexion healthy and glowing. We’ll also walk you through the essentials every model should keep in their kit, ensuring you’re never unprepared for castings, runways, or editorial shoots.

Sign Up

FAQs

Who can join the Academy?

The Academy is open to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced models. It’s designed to provide tools, training, and experiences that help every model grow, no matter where they’re starting.

Do I need to be part of the Agency to join?

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

What types of training are offered in the Academy?

Our training is organized into three structured series: the Lesson Series (knowledge and professionalism), the Runway Series (stage presence and walking technique), and the Photoshoot Series (posing, expression, and collaboration on set).

Do I have to pay for Academy workshops?

Yes and no. Each workshop has no extra cost, but you must be subscribed to the corresponding series to be able sign up for the event. Agency members receive exclusive discounts on Academy series as part of their membership benefits.