Saint Lucian Wins Designer Award in Canada

Kadeem Faustin, originally of Babonneau, has always had a creative mind, having participated in several drama productions here in Saint Lucia. The 22-year-old was also an active member of the Silver Shadow Dance Academy. Faustin emigrated to Toronto, Canada four years ago to study dance, where other opportunities presented him with even more fertile ground to nurture his creative passion.

Among them were a few modeling stints including one in 2013 at African Fashion Canada. “It was at that event that I not only met and interacted with other models but also with designers as well,” Faustin told the STAR this week. “I also had the opportunity to attend various seminars on fashion and it was there that my interest in fashion and designing sort of peaked,” he says.

This year, Kadeem Faustin again took part in African Fashion Canada, this time as a designer. The event features a design competition among designer students and Faustin was one of six. The competitors had the task of creating six high fashion looks using their design aesthetic and the aspiring Saint Lucian emerged victorious. From his Kyle Gervacy brand came his “Dessenze” collection under the “tribal chic” theme.

As the winner, Faustin was required to showcase a ten-piece collection and was also nominated for best emerging designer of the year at the upcoming fashion week industry awards.

Kadeem Faustin (left) with a model wearing one of his designs.