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.

September Events

  • The Photoshoot Series

    This month is dedicated to Styling and Brand Collaboration. Models will sharpen their styling skills in the Styling + All-Day Shoot and gain real-world experience working directly with lifestyle brands in the Lifestyle/Brand Collab Shoot, building versatile portfolio content along the way.

    The Photoshoot Series Events

  • The Runway Series

    This month emphasizes Walk Development. In the Walk Development/Personal Walks session, models receive personalized coaching to refine their runway presence, strengthen confidence, and enhance their individual walking style for future shows and castings.

    The Runway Series Events

  • The Lesson Series

    This month is centered on Model Branding. Through the Model Branding & Online Presence lesson and the Model Branding Clinic & Digital Audit, models will focus on shaping their identity, refining their digital portfolios, and receiving direct feedback to strengthen their professional image online.

    The Lesson Series Events
See All Events
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

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)

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

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.