Models have been selected for Vancouver Fashion Week, having the main concept as diversity
Vancouver Fashion Week (hereafter VFW) is the second largest international fashion event in North America after New York and takes place in the multi-cultural and international city of Vancouver. It is the one and only fashion show that attracts industry professionals and innovative designers from all over the world, and is said to be one of the fastest growing fashion weeks in the world and a stage for young designers to make their presence globally on the Paris, London, Milan and New York stages.
We at SOLIT have received a direct offer from VFW to participate in the April 2024 collection.
The VFW collection, which is based on the concept of 'diversity', attracts many participants who are interested in witnessing how fashion can create value for society by embracing diversity. We also saw it as an opportunity to communicate SOLIT's vision of 'all inclusive' even more extensively.
The theme of the runway that we at SOLIT are preparing for this year is "SOLIT! Duh.". We meant the following message: "Is it extraordinary, isn,t it. - what, isn't that just normal?" by using the English slang. We want to show a world where it has become normal for diverse people to express themselves in their own way.
In addition, the VFW Office will provide all the models in the required number of people, as we were invited by the Vancouver Fashion Week originally. However, the value of the products we have created so far lies in the fact that they "enable a diversity of people to make their own choices according to their own preferences and body shape". Therefore, when expressing that variability and expandability, we felt that the value would not be conveyed if only people with a 'typical' model's body shape or people who are trained to walk on a runway wore the garments.
We want people with more diverse qualities to wear it.
Based on this SOLIT idea and philosophy, we decided to challenge ourselves together with following eight models by recruiting models openly from all over the country and abroad, in order to colour the runway together with diverse people, regardless of disability, sexuality, faith, body shape, nationality, age or experience, as part of a team.
SOLIT stands on the world stage together with our model team, believing that it is the stage for age-making collection, and that it is therefore necessary to convey our vision of society and fashion.
The eight models of SOLIT with diverse backgrounds
Here are the eight models who will together represent the brand at the VFW, as selected in the public call for models in September, among other finalists.
The models will deliver and communicate the expression of SOLIT, which is being elaborated for Vancouver Fashion Week, to the audiences at the event. In fact, while there are 15 models who will be representing the show as a whole, these 8 models are the ones who will spend six months working together as SOLIT members, discussing and communicating the direction, products and presentation together from the planning stage.
We hope you will get to know the feelings of each of the eight of us and support us in our challenge.
Kazuhiro Takai
Bringing Hope to Deaf Children as a Deaf Athlete
Profile
Born on June 7, 1997, he is a deaf athlete belonging to Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Inc.. Originally from Shiga Prefecture, currently residing in Kanagawa Prefecture. Born with congenital sensorineural hearing loss. He joined Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Inc. in April 2020. Actively engaged in athletics, specializing in high jump and decathlon as a Deaf (hearing impaired) athlete while balancing professional responsibilities. Aiming to participate in and achieve medals at the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
I have congenital sensorineural hearing loss. I can communicate through oral speech and sign language. I have exceptional motor skills and a competitive spirit. In High Jump, I've won the National Deaf Schools Athletics Championships three times. I secured 6th place in the World Deaf Championships, with a personal record of 1.91 meters. In the decathlon, which I started in 2023, I'm nearing the medal line for the Deaflympics.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
I resonate with SOLIT!'s vision of an all-inclusive society. Alongside an interest in inclusive fashion, I aim to express myself in a soundless world and create an opportunity to raise awareness about the Deaflympics among a wider audience. During high school, I had the chance to hear stories of Deaflympic medalists, inspiring a dream to excel as a Deaflympian myself. I want to offer similar dreams and hope to children with hearing impairments, and decided to participate.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
I resonate with the phrase "All-Inclusive" and the idea of not leaving anyone—diverse people or the Earth's environment—behind. If someone is in trouble, I want to help or cooperate, and I strive to act accordingly.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
I rarely had the chance to walk in public like in a fashion show, so I felt anxious. However, I want to do my best because I believe that by walking confidently, I can offer hope to others.
Could you share your message with supporters?
After the initial apprehension post-selection, going through the photo shoot has boosted my confidence. I anticipate being nervous during the actual event, so I aim to walk with the image of a high jump approach in my mind. By enjoying and expressing myself, I hope to convey coolness and encourage more Para-athletes and Deaflympians to wear SOLIT! clothing and perhaps even become models.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
I'm committed to striving towards an all-inclusive society together with everyone supporting me!
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/takazu__/?hl=ja
Moeba
Confidently Striding the Runway as a Striking Refugee Model
Profile
From Central Africa and residing in Japan for about five years, I speak four languages and can read and write in hiragana, katakana, and kanji. I studied International Business at a university in India and worked for a non-governmental organization in my home country. Feeling my life was in danger amidst political instability, I sought asylum abroad and came to Japan. Through the recognized non-profit organization: Japan Association for Refugees, I secured a position at MOL Logistics Co., Ltd., engaged in international airport transportation and personnel development for the company's overseas operations.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
Political instability, I sought asylum abroad and arrived in Japan. I am kind, calm, polite, and possess a positive personality. Valuing teamwork, I constantly maintain high motivation and excel at encouraging those around me.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
Learning about the recruitment announcement from the NPO WELgee, which aims to support refugees in Japan to design their futures, prompted me to apply. I feel that my cherished values align with SOLIT!'s vision, and I am consistently enthusiastic about participating in such projects.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
I highly value equality and diversity and appreciate the sense of being accepted for who I am. I also believe that true beauty comes from within, not just outward appearance. While I perceive the fashion industry tends to favor white and slim models as a norm, I resonate with SOLIT!'s approach of focusing on the genuine beauty of various models and their stance against favoring only specific types in society.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
Being chosen brought immense joy and shock. I was surprised by the chance since I lacked clues on how to become a model. However, I wanted to show myself as a "never-give-up challenger" to many people back in my homeland who have returned. I am grateful to have been given this opportunity even now.
Could you share your message with supporters?
I deeply rejoice in any form of support extended to us. I want to express gratitude to everyone who is building our hopes and goals.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
Even in the face of incredibly challenging issues, I believe the message that everyone is given a chance to achieve their dreams should be conveyed worldwide. Additionally, I aspire to promote SOLIT! as a brand that embraces diversity. While I anticipate encountering more challenges ahead, I believe I am here to overcome them.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/moebasss/
Mirai Mizuguchi
High school student aspiring to become a worldwide deaf actor.
Profile
From Tokyo, a 15-year-old affiliated with AccessiBeauty Management. Born deaf, attended a school for the deaf from kindergarten to middle school, and currently attends a high school. During kindergarten to elementary school, engaged in after-school clubs, and activities among children who can hear, such as swimming, Kumon, and art classes, following classes at the school for the deaf. Joined the current talent agency in the second year of middle school and commenced activities as a model and actor. Her first language proficiency lies in Japanese Sign Language.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
My strength lies in possessing the "power to challenge." I engaged not only in entertainment but also as a high-performance athlete in Deaf Sailing. I am currently studying various sign languages including International Sign Language, Korean Sign Language, and American Sign Language. I am challenging myself to allow for discoveries and learning across various aspects, broadening my perspectives and making it enjoyable.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
I was touched by the phrase "not leaving anyone—diverse people or the Earth's environment—behind," I wonder what it would be like wearing clothes created by SOLIT!. I would love to try it on!! Walking the runway and working abroad have been among my goals, so I wanted to take on this challenge.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
I resonate with SOLIT!'s motto of "All-Inclusive." Being a person with a disability often leads to feeling isolated within a minority community. The message of "not leaving anyone—diverse people or the Earth's environment—behind" feels like it's saying, "It's okay to be different; every one, as global citizens, is welcome," not confined to limited communities.
Moreover, in today's world, various discrimination issues persist. Rather than conforming to such "norms," I hope for gradual changes toward an environment that respects individuality, which is why I resonate with SOLIT!, which is challenging these norms.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
I am thrilled to be able to work with SOLIT!, a brand I've been interested in through clothing! Feeling the great pressure of being a model for this project, I'm filled with a mix of thrill, anxiety, and excitement. While cherishing these emotions, I aim to give my all during the event.
Could you share your message with supporters?
I'm grateful to everyone who has always supported me, enabling me to take on this stage. Your support and encouragement fuel my energy. I hope you'll support me as I challenge myself as a SOLIT! model in Vancouver. Thank you for your support!
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
I won't forget my gratitude for being entrusted with this significant role. I'll work with the team to convey SOLIT!'s message as a model. This job won't end after it's finished; I'll strive to connect SOLIT!'s philosophy to the future. My personal goal is to become a different person from who I was before and after VFW. By accumulating discoveries, growth, and improvements, I aim to create a version of myself closer to the dream of becoming a deaf actor making waves worldwide.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/mirai_mix2/
Yuki Hiwasa
I want to create a world where everyone can enjoy fashion
Profile
From Aichi Prefecture, I've had diverse experience in the apparel industry for seven years and currently lead a team for a sports brand's official website. As a physical feature, I have a condition called Nevus of Ota from my forehead to my cheeks since birth. I consider this appearance to be a part of my 'individuality,' and through my main job and activities, I aim to promote the belief that 'anyone can shine’.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
I've gained broad experience in the apparel industry (sales, planning, area manager, e-commerce, etc.), polishing my 'grit' and 'spirit of challenge.' In an industry that constantly demands exploring new frontiers to achieve success, I feel I've developed the strength to 'continuously challenge new things.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
Participating in a POP-UP STORE volunteer opportunity was a significant turning point. I also have Nevus of Ota on my forehead and cheeks, but despite such disabilities, I believe anyone can enjoy fashion. I wanted to convey this idea through modeling and challenging stereotypes, prompting me to apply.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
I resonate with SOLIT!'s philosophy of aiming for an 'All-Inclusive' society where 'no one is left behind.' Apart from conveying that everyone can enjoy fashion, while working in the apparel industry, I've felt a disconnect - creating something amazing but having to discard it if it doesn't sell. SOLIT!'s proactive approach towards these issues in the apparel industry and environmental concerns struck a chord with me.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
Even before the model selection, I had this sense of conviction within me that 'I will be a SOLIT! model.' While the joy was immense upon the model selection, I was preparing myself calmly without getting too carried away.
Could you share your message with supporters?
I'm filled with gratitude for this wonderful opportunity. I genuinely realize that this brand exists due to the tremendous efforts and sentiments of many people. I take pride in being able to contribute to broadcasting what everyone has built to the world.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
I'm thrilled to be a part of this team. I aim to do everything I can and gradually build on it, albeit in small steps. I believe this gradual buildup will contribute to the success of VFW. Through VFW, I hope to take actions that allow more people to shine.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/yukihiwasa/
Nao
I embody a biased-free perspective as a true-to-life high school student
Profile
A high school student in my second year, living in Tokyo. I have no physical or mental disabilities. My hobbies include saunas and visiting thrift stores. Attending a school where the female population predominates, I've been influenced by the makeup, fashion, and values of girls, leading me to explore genderless fashion and makeup. This sparked my interest in gender issues. Through connections with friends, I encountered SOLIT!, strongly resonating with SOLIT!'s beliefs. Presently, I am diligently studying for university entrance exams.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
My unique trait lies in leveraging my youth as a high school student to generate flexible and innovative ideas. Understanding that 'non-disabled' and 'disabled' individuals are not defined by majority/minority or strong/weak categories, but each possesses strengths and weaknesses, is where I find my charm.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
During my volunteer work at SOLIT!'s pop-up, a wheelchair user complimented my skirt style as 'cool.' That moment made me sense the warmth of a world where diverse people coexist and respect one another—a true 'All-Inclusive' atmosphere. Wanting to further experience and spread this warmth, I applied.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
I resonated intending to achieve an all-inclusive world where no one is left behind.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
I didn't feel the significance at first time, but now I'm filled with excitement and expectations.
Could you share your message with supporters?
I'm committed to working responsibly, keeping in mind the support from the many people involved with SOLIT!.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
At my high school, interactions with individuals having disabilities are limited, which once made me hesitant about communication. In this opportunity, I aim to break down my barriers and continue to grow. Furthermore, I aspire to create opportunities for my high school friends to contemplate an all-inclusive world. I won't forget my drive to improve and my spirit of challenge; I'll absorb all that I can!
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/n_00.wa/
Hayuka Yoshizawa
Not hiding scars, disabilities, or the past - the determination to live as a model and actor
Profile
From Toyama Prefecture, I've been engaged in various forms of artistic expression since childhood—acting, singing, and creating poetry and stories. I got into met with an accident just before completing graduate school, requiring three years of recovery with lingering consequences and scars. In 2019, I moved to Tokyo, initiating my career as a copywriter while starting in the entertainment industry. I've acted in stage and film productions, and participated as a model in domestic fashion shows and advertisements, achieving my international collection debut at "Milano Fashion Week 2023.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
I am who live with developmental disabilities (ASD/ADHD) and a survivor of abuse, I'm also a person with acquired physical disabilities due to an accident. Scars and surgery marks from the accident cover multiple areas of my body. I view these visible and invisible challenges as strengths, openly engaging in entertainment activities, and sharing my experiences about disabilities, background, and scars.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
As an initial SOLIT fan, experiencing the warm and inclusive atmosphere during my modeling opportunity deeply moved me and piqued my interest in knowing more about SOLIT! I learned that at VFW, as part of the team, I thought I could challenge myself as a model and communicate thoughts to many through being a member of SOLIT! prompted an immediate decision to apply.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
"SOLIT! This word is for you" and "No one is left behind, embracing diversity and the planet's environment." These phrases from SOLIT! are always warm yet powerful guiding words. Carrying these sentiments, I strongly feel driven to be part of fulfilling ambitions.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
I felt an incredible joy and a trembling sense of exhilaration. As a model and as an individual named Hayuka Yoshizaka, I'm filled with a sense of mission to perform to the maximum.
Could you share your message with supporters?
I'm immensely grateful for the continuous support and assistance through such endeavors as crowdfunding. Walking the runway as the face of SOLIT!, representing the efforts of numerous team members who devoted extensive time and effort, is our responsibility as models. I aim to turn the weight of this responsibility into strength, expressing the sentiment of maximizing the chemistry between the audience and SOLIT!, as we come together.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
My disabilities won't disappear, and the scars won't fade. I believe that the aftermath of PTSD from abuse will stay with me for life. So, there might not be an end to days that feel challenging. But it doesn't mean being told by others that it's "embarrassing" or "shameful" or being asked to hide. I'll walk the runway for the realization of a society where everyone can value their thoughts and decisions.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/yoshizakahayuka/
Shu Maruhashi
Challenging the Dream I Almost Gave Up On and Stepping into an Overseas Collection
Profile
From Chiba Prefecture, and raised in Chiba City. In June 2017, I suffered a spinal cord injury due to a traffic accident and have been living in a wheelchair since then. The aftereffects include quadriplegia, trunk impairment, and autonomic nervous system disorder. After about three years of rehabilitation in hospitals and facilities, I started living on my own. Due to my interest in fashion, beauty, and modeling, I auditioned for AccessiBeauty Management, an entertainment agency for people with disabilities, in 2022 and got selected. Currently, I am active as a wheelchair model.
What are your Strengths, Charms, and Characteristics?
As a wheelchair user with a spinal cord injury and quadriplegia, I cannot move my fingers or legs. However, my strength lies in my 182cm tall, slender body, and I can beautifully present any clothing, utilizing the length of my arms and legs. I also make an effort not to be overconfident and strive to gain confidence through diligent efforts.
What prompted you to apply as a VFW model?
By emerging as a wheelchair model, I want to encourage not only those with disabilities but also those without, who wish to attempt something but feel unable. Having experienced to regret for not trying anything when I was not carrying any disabilities. I believe it's crucial to take on challenges when you have dreams. Additionally, I wanted to convey the message of SOLIT!, about inclusivity and mutual recognition, hence I applied to be a model.
What aspects of SOLIT's philosophy do you resonate with?
As a wheelchair user, I often face excessive support or criticism due to using a wheelchair or being a person with a disability, and I felt uncomfortable with being treated differently. This is why I resonated with the message of mutual recognition and inclusivity.
How do you feel upon being selected as a model?
I felt anxious about how I could contribute to SOLIT!, but I will embody what only I can do.
Could you share your message with supporters?
The models, including myself, will express what SOLIT! staff and everyone involved have passionately created, so I'll do my best to convey that passion.
Last but not least, could you share your determination for the fashion week?
In modeling, finger movements are considered crucial to creating a beautiful pose. However, since I cannot move my fingers, I had to experiment with compensatory actions. Learning to compensate for the lack of finger movement by utilizing other parts, like moving my arms, has become a part of my approach. I value every single second involved with VFW, as this time is irreplaceable.
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/shu_maruhashi500/
Towards Vancouver Fashion Week in April 2024
For us at SOLIT, this is indeed our first challenge.
Everything may not go well from the start, and some parts may not go smoothly at first. The eight members are willing to enjoy these aspects together and take on the challenge together as a team. Rather than following the image of a conventional runway, we will show the very ordinary state of the world. We at SOLIT want to make this an opportunity to express such a 'new normal'.
The reason why a small Japanese brand, which has been in business for less than three full years, has been invited to participate in a big show like VFW and is able to be on stage is the fact that the management members of VFW sympathise with the society we aim to create, our initiatives and our philosophy. Even now, we have been able to come this far thanks to the many people who have supported and helped us.
SOLIT alone is not enough to realise our goal of an All-Inclusive Society in which no one is left behind, including diverse people, animals and plants, and the global environment. We would like to walk forward together with those who share our vision of an All-Inclusive Society.
We will keep you informed about our challenges up to the VFW, both from SOLIT and from our models. We hope you will continue to support SOLIT.
About our Vancouver Fashion Week
For more information on SOLIT's challenges for Vancouver Fashion Week, please visit this page.