Celebrities are no longer seen only on television screens or movie sets — they are now commanding attention on the runways as well. From beauty queens to familiar personalities, their presence adds sparkle, credibility and inspiration to fashion, proving that the catwalk has become another stage where stars shine and help elevate the next generation of talent.

So, it was indeed a spectacle to also witness young children and teenagers walk the runway at Brittany Palazzo, which was transformed into an enchanting and magical venue. Clad in fairy and prince costumes, the young models carried themselves with confidence and grace, captivating the audience with every step.

Thanks to The Runway Atelier (TRA), a decade-old fashion house, the experience went far beyond striking poses, sashaying, shimmying and parading on the catwalk. TRA imparts discipline and valuable life lessons, creates an atmosphere conducive to camaraderie and cooperation, builds friendships, and most importantly, brings out the personality and confidence of each student under its care and guidance.

“Runway Atelier is not just about honing talents,” representative Jolly Jules said. “It’s also about building confidence. The wonderful outcome is always seeing a shy child gain confidence — interacting with co-workshoppers, faces beaming, eyes full of life. They become like a family. At times, we even learn that these kids and their families go out of town together, visit museums, watch musicals, or dine out.”

When the first TRA Magical Adventure was held last year, there were only two batches of workshoppers. “Now,” said Jules, “I’m happy to report that we have seven batches this year. It has become bigger and more exciting. Those who were part of the first Magical Adventure have become like big brothers and sisters to this year’s batch. I want to thank all the parents for their trust in TRA and the kids — their magical transformations truly make all of us happy.”

According to Jules, what made Magical Adventure 2 even more special was the exposure the students received before the main event. “Prior to this big show, we had smaller events in malls and leading activity centers to give the workshoppers experience and confidence.”

Why the fantasy theme? Jules explained: “It started with the magical dresses — that was the original concept. Later on, the kids wanted to become fairies or princesses, especially since the majority of participants were female. We envisioned gowns for the culminating show. From there, the Magical Adventure idea developed. The workshoppers loved wearing dresses with fairy wings and ball gowns like Cinderella or Belle. When boys joined, they wanted to don pirate or prince costumes.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Jules shared what aspiring students can expect from TRA: “Theater training is already part of the workshop. There’s a dance component with teachers from G-Force, and of course, modeling. The modeling courses include posing and movement, runway walk, grooming and health, and confidence and mindset.”

Lovely host

Hosting the event was Miss Grand Malaysia 2024, Melisha Lin, who was then competing alongside Miss Grand International 2024 CJ Opiaza.

In person, Lin was a statuesque stunner — articulate, bubbly, and charming. During a brief chat, she delighted this interviewer when asked about her favorite Filipino food. “There are so many,” she said. “But off the top of my head, definitely Jollibee and Mang Inasal. I’m loving the different textures and tastes of halo-halo. It’s such a flavorful and filling dessert. And palabok. For main dishes — adobo, kare-kare and sinigang.”

Her favorite Filipino words include: “Maganda (beautiful), gwapo (handsome), magandang gabi, magandang umaga, magandang tanghali at hapon (good evening, good morning, good afternoon), maraming salamat (thank you) and mahal kita (I love you).”

What she will never forget about hosting Magical Adventure 2, she shared, was “the discipline of the workshoppers. They follow instructions well, know their blockings, and walk the runway without nerves. They truly shine and are happy on stage. I also love how friendly and courteous they are — and yes, these kids have the best smiles. That’s a trait I’ve noticed Filipinos have — the sincerest smiles.”